ED1111 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Concept Map, Thesis Statement, Relate
Lecture 2 - Essay Writing Tips
Essay Writing
- An Academic essay
requires specific skills – to be developed.
- An Argumentative Essay
usually required for Education Academic Writing.
- Use of Formal Register for academic essay writing (3rd person and generally past tense – eliminate
unnecessary words and “exaggerations”).
The Essay Topic
“How can children’s literature be used to develop an understanding of the components of language?”
1. Read the question carefully.
2. Think about how you will approach this topic and create a concept map/brainstorm – OR preferred
method of gathering your ideas.
3. Source ‘best’ (be critical) information and remember to reference accurately as you write and create
your reference list as you go.
4. You must write an essay that responds directly and fully to the question being asked. Make sure you
understand the question.
Planning your Essay
1. When planning your essay, you should dedicate 1/3 of the total time available on researching and
reading reference materials. Another 1/3 of your time needs to be spent planning, drafting and writing
the essay. Whilst the last 1/3 of your time must be dedicated to editing and fine tuning your essay.
2. Never underestimate the importance of editing and refining your essay! Also remember to edit your
reference list.
3. Read and take notes
4. Plan – use a concept map, outline, list or diagram
5. Proofread and add information where needed.
Essay Format
Introduction:
“How can children’s literature be used to develop an understanding of the components of language?”
- Your introduction must clearly state the main topic of the essay and define key words in the topic (do
not use Wikipedia or the Internet for essay definitions- they must be research-based).
- The introduction must briefly introduce the major points that will be covered in your essay (a summary/
‘thesis statement’ of your essay argument).
- When defining the key words make sure they flow naturally as part of the written essay. Do not write
your definitions in list form.
Main Body
- All that you want to say to support your argument should be contained in this section of your essay.
- Each paragraph should begin with a “topic sentence” – the introduction of each new.
- Paragraphs should be carefully structured – clearly stated – to address each of the issues you want to
raise.
- Make sure that each key issue is supported by significant research based evidence. Each paragraph
must provide evidence to further support the topic.
- Order your discussion paragraphs carefully for greatest impact – prioritise your ideas. Make sure you
plan this on paper before you begin writing in order to get a clear understanding of the direction of
your essay.
- Each paragraph should address a major element of the question, provide supportive evidence.
- Relate the point of each paragraph clearly to the larger argument.
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