From Formal Paragraph to Formal Essay



The Formal Five Paragraph Essay

The formal five paragraph essay has very specific requirements:

➢ an introductory paragraph that gets your reader interested in your topic before you even begin proving it because it:

← has a relevant opening statement that makes your reader aware of the topic of discussion

← clearly identifies the author and the title of the text (properly formatted)

← outlines your thesis (what you intend to prove – the argument)

← gives a “blueprint” of the direction your argument is heading (outlines the order in which your body paragraphs will appear)

➢ three body paragraphs that are formal paragraphs themselves, carefully arranged so that your argument flows smoothly and logically (save the best/strongest point for last) and each complete with:

← a topic sentence that connects the topic of the paragraph to the thesis (essay’s argument)

← points of argument connected to the topic sentence

← evidence (properly cited quotations using parenthetical citation format) from the text that develop the thesis

← discussion (analysis) of the quotations relating them the paragraph argument and the overall argument (thesis) answering “So what?”

← a concluding sentence that reminds your reader of the paragraph argument

← use transition words or phrases to connect ideas within and between your paragraphs

➢ a concluding paragraph that restates your thesis, sums up your main points, and leaves your reader with a “big idea” about the essay’s topic. This is your last chance to persuade the reader that you are right about what you are trying to prove.

➢ Write from an objective point of view (academic style). Do not use “I” or “you”.

➢ Assume an academic audience. Do not use slang or abbreviations. Also, assume your reader has read the text (novel or play). This means you can briefly refer to the events of the story, but do not summarize the plot! ANALYSE!

➢ Write in the present tense.

➢ The essay must have unity and coherence. Therefore, ensure you make use of transition words and present your ideas logically and clearly.

➢ Use MLA format. Be sure to include a Work Cited page. Refer to your notes as well as the Owl at Purdue Online Writing Lab website ().

➢ Your essay has a creative title that reflects the essay’s topic.

➢ All writing process steps must be completed by hand, thoroughly maintained and submitted with the final published essay.

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