Day 3 - Essay (Part 1)

Week Overview

  • Session Dates: November 26-28, 2024

  • Course: Academic Communication

  • Instructor: Mr. Kyle C. Gesolgani

Attendance

  • A record section for students' names, time in, and signatures is provided for accountability.

Vocabulary: Wordiness

  • Definition: The use of more words than necessary to convey meaning.

  • Example Sentences:

    • Aldreen is a verbose academic writer.

    • His essay expressed a verbose output than what was expected.

Class Reflection Questions

  • Review topics discussed in previous sessions.

  • Identify one type of communication and provide an example.

  • Discuss its relevance to your field of discipline.

Scholastic Essay

  • Focused writing that develops a thesis using evidence, analysis, and interpretation.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Understand Essay Purpose: Define and identify the purpose of essays.

  2. Essay Structure: Comprehend basic structure (Introduction, Body, Conclusion).

  3. Essay Types: Distinguish among narrative, descriptive, expository, persuasive, and argumentative essays.

  4. Key Components: Identify components like thesis statement, topic sentences, supporting details, and concluding sentences.

Essay Overview

  • Definition of Essay: A shorter piece of writing requiring skills such as close reading, analysis, and persuasion.

  • Origin: Comes from the Latin verb "exigere" meaning "to examine or test".

  • Purpose: To promote fresh ideas beyond the conventional.

Essay Purpose Checklist

  • Present a coherent argument addressing a stimulus or question.

  • Persuade readers of the argument's credibility.

  • Avoid biases and promote critical thinking.

  • Address issues relevant to contemporary society.

Types of Essays

Expository Essay

  • Focus: Investigate an idea, evaluate evidence, and present an argument clearly.

  • Components:

    1. Clear thesis statement.

    2. Logical transitions.

    3. Body paragraphs with evidence.

    4. Creative and engaging writing.

    5. Insightful conclusions.

Descriptive Essay

  • Focus: Describe tangible or intangible subjects using artistic imagery.

  • Writing Tips:

    1. Brainstorm and compile descriptive lists.

    2. Use clear, relevant language and vivid imagery.

    3. Engage the five senses in writing.

    4. Connect emotionally with the audience.

Narrative Essay

  • Focus: Personal stories, autobiographies, or memoirs including plot, characters, and setting.

Argumentative Essay

  • Focus: Investigate a topic with evidence to establish a clear position.

  • Components:

    1. Clear thesis statement.

    2. Logical transitions and connections.

    3. Body with evidential support.

    4. Comprehensive conclusions addressing the thesis.

Persuasive vs. Argumentative Writing

Persuasive Writing

  • Aims to convince readers of the writer's personal perspective.

  • Uses emotional appeals and personal conviction.

Argumentative Writing

  • Aims to present well-reasoned arguments based on evidence.

  • Acknowledges varying perspectives and uses logical reasoning.

Group Activity #1

  • Collaborate and write as per instructions from Google Docs.

  • Evaluation based on content organization, grammar, and overall presentation (50 points total).

Closing Reflection

  • Consider the lessons learned this week and their application to becoming a better academic writer.

References

  1. Academic Communication - Week 2 Learner Guide

  2. The Writing Center at San Antonio College, Argumentative and Persuasive Essay. Retrieved November 26, 2024.