Chapter 11. The Writing Process: Paragraphs and Essays

Stages of writing [10][11][16]:

Planning (prewriting): identify purpose, audience and topic; brainstorm, outline, collect ideas and evidence.

Drafting: write freely, following your outline.

Revising: improve content, organization and clarity; consider larger changes.

Editing: correct grammar, spelling, punctuation and style.

Proofreading and publishing: check the final copy and share it.

The paragraph. A good paragraph has one main idea:

a topic sentence that states the point;

supporting sentences with evidence, explanation and examples;

a concluding or linking sentence.

Use transitions to connect ideas: first, however, for example, as a result, in contrast, finally.

The essay. A common structure is an introduction (hook, background, thesis statement), body paragraphs (each developing one point supporting the thesis) and a conclusion (restating the thesis in new words and reflecting on its significance). A strong thesis is specific, arguable and focused [16].

Weak vs. strong thesis

Weak: “This essay is about pollution.”

Stronger: “Cities should reduce plastic pollution by banning single-use bags because the bans cut litter and encourage reusable alternatives.”

Revision checklist: Does every paragraph support the thesis? Is the order logical? Is evidence specific? Are sentences varied and clear? Are terms defined? Have I avoided repetition?

Review: What are the three parts of a paragraph? (Answer: topic sentence, supporting sentences, concluding or linking sentence.)