Beyond Five Paragraphs_ Advanced Essay Writing Skills Text Chapter 1

Skills

• Author: Dr. Steven Van Zoost, along with contributors K. Anwer Shaikh, B. Campbell, M. Curk, K. Jacobsen, J. McKeown, C. Petrie, S. Schleppe, J. Stewart

• Title: Beyond Five Paragraphs: Advanced Essay Writing Skills

Chapter 1: An Overview of Essays

1.1 Understanding Essays

• Definition of Essays: A form of nonfiction that analyzes, describes, or discusses a topic.

• Common Structure: Often five paragraphs (introduction, three body paragraphs, conclusion) but can vary in length.

• Types of Essays: Cover various formats including written, oral, photo, video.

1.2 Timed vs. Assigned Essays

• Timed Essays:

  • Written during a set period (usually one class)

  • Focus on clarity and idea development.

  • Reduces chances of plagiarism.

• Assigned Essays:

  • Given over an extended period, allowing for in-depth research and revisions.

  • Detailed planning and editing process allowed.

1.3 Characteristics of Essays

• Common Features:

  • Relatively short compared to novels.

  • Must focus on a single, central idea (thesis).

  • Should demonstrate unity by remaining relevant to the thesis throughout.

  • Generally includes an introduction, body, and conclusion.

1.4 Formal vs. Informal Essays

• Formal Essays:

  • Written for academic settings.

  • Evidence-based and serious tone.

  • Aimed at engaging the reader through logical reasoning and facts.

• Informal Essays:

  • Personal, relaxed style.

  • Written for general audiences and often utilize first-person narrative.

1.5 Types of Essays

• Descriptive Essays:

  • Characteristics: Present sensory details; focus on creating impressions.

  • Goal: To engage the reader’s senses and create vivid imagery.

• Narrative Essays:

  • Focus on storytelling, involving characters and plot.

  • Aims to reveal a lesson or insight.

• Expository Essays:

  • Objective presentation of researched facts.

  • Inform, explain, or describe a topic.

• Argumentative/Persuasive Essays:

  • Contain an opinion or claim supported by evidence.

  • Aim to convince or influence the reader on a particular stance.

1.6 Key Points for Writing Timed Essays

• Define Purpose: understand what the essay should achieve (explore, clarify, criticize).

• Know Your Audience: Tailor language and content accordingly (formal for academic vs. informal for general).

• Identify Essay Type: Determine the format based on the prompt; can be formal or informal.

Writing Style Notes:

• Thesis Statement: Explicitly or implicitly stated central idea guiding the essay.

• Approach to Audience and Content: Utilize appropriate tone and diction.

Conclusion

• Essays are diverse and flexible, requiring an understanding of their structures and purposes to convey ideas effectively.

• Importance of adapting writing style based on audience and essay type is crucial for successful communication.