Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013

Unit Three

Writing Effective Essay

3.1. What of an Essay

An essay is a piece of writing, usually from a writer’s personal point of view. The essay is, first and
foremost, essentially true, a piece of non-fiction. It can be literary criticism, political manifestos,
observations of daily life, recollections, reflections of the writer and learned arguments.

Words are collections of sounds; sentences are collections of words; paragraphs are collections of
sentences; and essays are collections of paragraphs. But so are many other forms of writing such as
that found in novels, magazines, and newspapers.

All essays have definable beginnings, middles, and endings, unlike some forms of writing such as
newspaper stories. In addition, essay is built around a central idea, normally referred to as thesis
statement. Basically, the thesis statement is the glue which binds the essay together. It is the point
of the essay. It is what the essay is about, what it intends to show, prove, or do: the controlling
purpose.

Length should never be a primary consideration when creating an essay. More relevant is the idea
that the essay should be long enough to completely discuss, argue, prove, or relate the main idea of
the essay, the thesis statement. The well-written essay has completeness, a wholeness about it that
announces.

In recent times, essays have become a major part of a formal education. Higher institution students
are taught structured essay formats to improve their writing skills, and essays are often used by
universities in selecting applicants. In both secondary and tertiary education, essays are used to
judge the mastery and comprehension of material. Students are asked to explain, comment on, or
assess a topic of study in the form of an essay. Academic essays are usually more formal than
literary ones. They may still allow the presentation of the writer's own views, but this is done in a
logical and factual manner, with the use of the first person often discouraged.

As a general rule, an essay's primary function is to express the point of view of its writer. For
example, someone who is particularly passionate about a religious or political issue may write an
essay to support his or her position, especially when the issue is a controversial one. Of course, not
all essays are argumentative in nature. The function for each, however, is the same--to express a
point of view.

3.2. Basic Structure of an Essay

Knowing how to organize your ideas in an essay is very important for academic success. Usually,
academic essay has a similar format.   It is at least five paragraphs long although often it is much
longer.   Also, the basic structure of each of these paragraphs is the same as that which we have
already studied.   

[Type text] Page 42

Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
The most common size for an essay is five paragraphs. The introductory first paragraph should be
just long enough to give the reader insight into the topic. The body is generally comprised of three
paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a separate thought, and more paragraphs can be added
as needed. Like the introduction, the conclusion is typically only one paragraph in length. While
five paragraphs is the norm, the word count can vary greatly, depending upon the complexity of the
topic.

The basic essay should be organized in the following five paragraph structure:

 Introduction
 Body Paragraph One
 Body Paragraph Two
 Body Paragraph Three
 Conclusion
This list is a basic guideline by which to structure all your essays. Obviously, they can vary in
length and in paragraph number. However, within the confines of this skeletal structure, is
everything you will in order to write a successful essay. Let us go piece by piece through this basic
structure to examine the elements of this style.

a. The Introduction

The Introduction consists of an opening line. This opening line can be a generalization about life
that pertains to your topic. It can also be a quotation. Another way into the introduction is to start it
with a little anecdote (or story). Once you have "introduced" the introductory paragraph with a
generalization, quotation, or anecdote, you can write vaguely for a few sentences or simply jump
into the crust of the idea. When you feel you are ready to introduce the specific focus of the essay,
then you write the thesis statement. The thesis statement should generally come at the end of the
Introductory Paragraph. If you are writing about a particular book, author, or event, you should
name it (in entirety) in the thesis statement. You should also list your argument with its supporting
evidence in this sentence. Essentially, the thesis statement is your tagline for the essay and the final
sentence of the introduction.

The first paragraph of the academic essay is the one that is usually the most different from the basic
paragraph that we have studied. A basic paragraph has a topic sentence as its first sentence,
followed by supporting sentences with supporting details, and these (sometimes) followed by a
concluding sentence.

In the multi-paragraph academic essay, however, the structure is a little different. Like the basic
paragraph, the introductory paragraph opens with a very general statement about the topic, and is
often followed by some supporting examples, but the paragraph then finishes with a narrow
statement (Thesis Statement) about the topic. Here is a short example of an introductory paragraph:

Throughout human history, the physical universe has often presented dangers to explorers. For
example, when primitive humans left their tribal villages to search for food and water, they risked
[Type text] Page 43
Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
death or injury from dangerous animals. Later, when people sailed the oceans in search of new
lands for settlement or trade, many died in terrible storms. Similarly, the ocean of outer space has
many dangers, but it also has several unique challenges for explorers.

Notice how the first sentence, Throughout human history, nature has often presented dangers to
explorers, is a very general statement about the topic, which is dangers in exploration. The next two
sentences give some supporting examples of this initial sentence. However, the third sentence of the
paragraph gives an example that contrasts in some way with the previous two sentences. Then, the
final sentence does something new: it introduces a specific example of the general topic. This
specific topic is the main thesis of the entire essay; that is, the rest of the essay will focus on this
specific topic, which in this case is several unique challenges for explorers.

This main thesis functions like the topic sentence of the basic paragraph. It is the most important
sentence of the essay. Notice how the main thesis is worded. It includes the phrase, several unique
challenges. This raises a question in the reader's mind, namely: "What are these challenges?" The
reader will find out what some of the challenges are in the body of the essay, which we will study
next.

b. The Body Paragraphs

The body portion of the essay is the largest portion. Typically, it has three paragraphs, but it might
have two paragraphs and of course it can have many more than three. Each of these paragraphs
usually has a topic sentence and several supporting sentences, just like the basic paragraph we have
studied. Here is an example of three body paragraphs (which together continue the essay that we
have started studying above):

i. Body Paragraph One

The Body Paragraph One should open with a transitional sentence. It should lead the reader into the
first piece of evidence you use to support your thesis statement, your argument. It is essentially a
mini-thesis for the paragraph. From the transitional/opening sentence, you can go on to cite
evidence to support your argument. This evidence must all revolve around a single theme and
should come in the form of a quotation (or factual information from a primary source). If you put
too many different themes into one body paragraph, then the essay becomes confusing. Body
Paragraph One will deal with one theme for your argument. You may have several pieces of
evidence to support this one theme, which is absolutely fine. Once you use a piece of evidence, you
have to be sure and write at least one or two sentences explaining why you use it. Then, wrap up the Body
Paragraph with a mini-concluding sentence summing up only what you have discussed in that paragraph.

One of the challenges that is unique to space is the fact that space is a vacuum, which is a risk for
various reasons. First, in a vacuum there is no atmosphere and therefore no air pressure. Without
air pressure, the human body has no oxygen to sustain itself. After too many minutes without
oxygen, a person would lose consciousness and eventually die. Also, in a vacuum a person's blood
will gradually begin to boil. Finally, without an atmosphere, the rays of the Sun can cause

[Type text] Page 44

Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
radiation poisoning.

ii. Body Paragraph Two

Body Paragraph Two should follow the exact same rules as Body Paragraph One. This time, pick
the second theme in support of your thesis argument and cite evidence for it. Again, you must open
this paragraph with a transitional sentence; one leading from the previous theme to the current
theme.

  Another difficulty that is unique to outer space is the presence of meteors and micrometeors.
These are pieces of rock and metal that are left over from the formation of the solar system. Many
of these objects travel at very high speeds. Under the Earth's blanket of air, people are usually
protected from meteor impacts. However, in space, people and spaceships are vulnerable to
collisions with meteors. It is true that the chance of meteor impacts is relatively small, but if even
a small micrometeor happens to collide with a spacecraft, it could cause serious damage.

iii. Body Paragraph Three

Body Paragraph Three should follow the exact same rules as Body Paragraph One and Two.
Again, you must open this paragraph with a transitional sentence; one leading from the previous
theme to the current theme.

 A third special challenge involved with the environment of space involves the fact that it is very
difficult to find life-sustaining water off the Earth. For example, the planet Mercury, which is
closest to the Sun, is too hot to have water, so space travelers must take water from Earth if they
want to visit Mercury. A similar situation exists on the planet Venus, second from the Sun. This
planet is likewise too hot for water to exist. Similarly, the fourth planet, Mars, is too cold and dry,
although there may be some water frozen at the north and south poles of the planet.
(Note that usually we do not put extra spaces between individual paragraphs, as has been done
above. The spaces between the paragraphs above are only for study purposes.) 

Recall that the main thesis statement of this essay said, Similarly, the ocean of outer space has
many dangers, but it also has several unique challenges for explorers. You can see how the body of
the essay is organized according to the challenges that are mentioned in the main thesis. The first
body paragraph discusses the dangers of space vacuum, the second body paragraph gives
information about meteors, and the third paragraph mentions the fact that water is very difficult to
find on other planets.

c. The Conclusion

Your conclusion is a wrap-up of the entire essay. It takes your introduction and essentially says to
the reader, "See, I told you so." You should be writing your conclusion with the belief that you have
proven everything you have set out to prove in your essay. You are allowed to be confident here,
and you are even allowed to drop little extra pieces of information that make the reader think more

[Type text] Page 45

Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
than you previewed in the entire paper. It is also important to have a concluding mini-thesis in this
paragraph. This statement is the closing tag-line, the "see what I just did" idea in every paper. An
essay can be immaculately written, organized, and researched; however, without a conclusion, the
reader is left dumbfounded, frustrated, confused.

It is important to remember that this is a rough sketch by which to write your essays. If your topic is
quite complicated, then you may have infinitely more evidentiary paragraphs than three.
Furthermore, you can expand your individual themes, as well. You can write two or three
paragraphs in support of "theme 1" (or Body Paragraph One). The most important thing to
remember here is consistency. If you have two or three paragraphs in support of one piece of
evidence, then you should have the same amount of paragraphs in support of all sequential facts.

There are other difficulties involved with space exploration, but these are three of the most
important ones. In summary, without adequate air pressure, the unprotected human body may be
seriously harmed in a vacuum. In addition, meteors can threaten human life and damage
spacecraft. Finally, the lack of water in space means that human life may have a difficult time
surviving on other planets. As one can see, the challenges of space travel are rather different from
terrestrial dangers.

Here is another example of a concluding paragraph:

As mentioned above, the Earth's natural environment has often presented dangers to explorers.
Dangerous animals, vast oceans, and violent weather have presented risks to humans. However,
the new frontier of outer space, with its vacuum, meteors, and lack of water, presents unique
challenges to people who desire to explore it.

Here is a diagram of the basic essay guidelines. Remember, "Body Paragraphs" simply stand for
Specific Ideas for your thesis. There can be many more than simply three.

I. Introduction
a. Opening
 Sentence, anecdote, quotation, and generalization
b. Explanation of opening, leading into Thesis Statement
c. Thesis Statement
 General argument
II. Body Paragraph One
a. Opening Sentence (pertaining to Reason/Theme #1)
 Explanation
b. Evidence A
 Explanation of evidence A
c. Possible evidence B
 Explanation of possible evidence B
d. Mini-conclusion only about Reason/Theme #1
III. Body Paragraph Two
[Type text] Page 46
Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
a. Transitional/ Opening Sentence (pertaining to Reason/Theme #2)
 Explanation
b. Evidence C
 Explanation of evidence C
c. Possible evidence D
 Explanation of possible evidence D
d. Mini-conclusion only about Reason/Theme #2
IV. Body Paragraph Three
a. Transitional/Opening Sentence (pertaining to Reason/Theme #3)
 Explanation
b. Evidence E
 Explanation of evidence E
c. Possible evidence F
 Explanation of possible evidence F
d. Mini-conclusion only about Reason/Theme #3
V. Conclusion
a. Transitional sentence wrapping up paper
b. Return to original anecdote/quotation/generalization
c. Reconfirm your argument, recounting how you have proven it
d. Write a mini-thesis, this time with more assertion
e. Possibly throw out a new idea (related to your thesis)
f. Optional

3.3. Basic Types of Essay

3.3.1. Expository Essay 

Expository essay is aimed at presenting the information based on people’s views. This is an
opportunity for you to express in essays your viewpoint on effectiveness, correctness of data.
Moreover, in expository essay you are able to criticize and analyze, describe and present the
material the way you understand it. If some aspects of an event or specific details are very
important, you may review them in a more detailed way.

Expository writing is designed to display information and to explain any unclear moments.
Exposition means the orderly analysis of available data on the topic with the use of illustrations,
figures, tables or any information that can be supported by quotations from valuable sources books,
journal articles or governmental websites.

Introduction usually contains overview of the material presented in the expository essay, while
conclusion contains summary of this material. Conclusion of your expository writing should not
include any new information; it usually restates ideas presented in a thesis statement at the
beginning of your work.

[Type text] Page 47

Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
Sample Expository Essay

My dog is the best pet anyone could have. He is beautiful and easy to care for. Playing with him is
lots of fun.  He always takes care of me. There is not a better pet anywhere.

My dog is a beautiful tricolor Sheltie. He is mostly black with white and a bit of brown. Caring for
him is easy because I simply have to make sure he has fresh water and food every day. I exercise
him by throwing his toys. He is a good pet because he is nice looking and does not require much
care.

He is also lots of fun to play with. He loves to play catch. He follows me around the house with a
toy and drops it on my foot so I will kick it. He can catch just about anything, but his favorite is
chasing a Frisbee. I really have fun playing with my dog.

He, even, takes care of me. He always follows me when I leave a room. When I am sitting on the
couch he plops down right beside me. When we are outside in the woods he always makes sure that
I keep up with the rest of the family. He always watches out for me.

As you can see, my dog is a great pet. I am proud of him and he does not require much
care. Playing with him is always enjoyable. He watches over me and keeps me safe, and is
absolutely the best pet anyone could even have!

3.3.2. Descriptive Essay

A descriptive essay mirrors the mood of the writer and conjures images that breathe. It is often regarded as
the most structured form of writing as it is associated with the ability to transfer emotions to the reader
through the use of words.

The aim of descriptive essays is to provide a vivid picture of a person, location, object, event, or
debate. It will offer details that will enable the reader to imagine the item described. A descriptive
essay can be written on any subject. It can be about a person, place, and an event or about anything.
A descriptive essay is an essay which is written in a manner which captures the reader’s attention
by vivid examples. When writing a description essay, students must ensure that it is written using
all five senses so that words create a mental picture in the mind of the reader and allows him to
experience what is being described. A good essay arouses the reader’s senses and impacts on his
mind- evoking the correct response.

The writer succeeds if he/she is able to capture the reader’s attention and retain it till the end.
Although one can describe anything under the sun and palm it off as a descriptive essay, the
description must relate to something of consequence, in the sense that it must be purposeful.

Writing must always be directed towards the reader and hence the writer must have a good reason
for describing something or someone. An introduction or a backdrop provides the correct setting for
the rest of the essay. A good descriptive essay should lure the reader and entice him to read without

[Type text] Page 48

Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
stopping. While details are important, the way they are presented is going to decide whether the
readers opt in or out. Visual skills, words relating to sound, smell and taste predominantly used tend
to make the essay real.

Words relating to touch and inner emotions be it disgust or admiration, love or hatred convey to the
reader the intensity and range of feeling. A wider spectrum encompassing all the senses has a
tremendous impact. Nonchalant use of nouns in a general way waters down the feelings conveyed.
Specificity is the order of the day. Active verbs help the reader to visualize the nature of emotions
rather than indicating the characters or scenes in an inanimate and passive manner.

Sample Descriptive Essay

Just the night before, my little brother had complained, "Nothing exciting ever happens at our
house." I was not thinking of that, though, when I woke up one Saturday morning and found the
kitchen smelling like a fresh coat of oil paint. Mom and Dad had already gone to work. I touched
one of the cabinets. No wet paint there, just the slightly sticky feel of wood in need of cleaning. I
opened the front door of our apartment to check where the smell was coming from. Splat! The
fumes hit my face like a splash of gasoline. I caught my breath and slammed the door.

"Quick," I called to my brother, who was still in his bedroom watching cartoons. "There's a fire
somewhere in the building. Find the cat and get ready to leave." I dialed 911 and tried to answer
the operator's questions as well as I could. "Are the fumes acrid or base?" she wanted to know. I
wished I had paid closer attention in science class. As soon as I hung up, I packed my violin in its
case, and my brother emerged with the cat zipped into his backpack, her two yellow eyes glinting
like gold buttons out the top. 

We took a deep breath and started down the five flights of stairs, knocking on each of our
neighbors' doors along the way. Only one grumpy man replied to our warning. "Go away," he
snarled. My brother started whimpering, but I grabbed his hand and told him not to waste his
breath. The air burned like hot sauce in our throats, but strangely, not even a puff of smoke
darkened the bright October light streaming through the skylight.

As soon as we reached the stoop, we ran next door to the Chinese laundry. The familiar smell of
detergent and ironing was as comforting as a mother's hug. The owner, who knew my family well,
frowned and nodded as I explained our sudden appearance. 

At last, a fire engine pulled up quietly, like a shiny red school bus. I think my brother was
disappointed that it did not blow its siren. We ran to the curb to talk to the first fireman off the
truck, a huge statue in helmet and uniform puffing a fat cigar. He listened to our story and waved
three more men off the truck. "You two stay here," he ordered, leading his crew armed with
hatchets, extinguishers, and gas meters. He was back within minutes, cigar in hand. "Seems the
man cleaning the furnace had some trouble with the exhaust," he puffed. "Sent the fumes right back
into the system. Just air the place out for a few hours and you will be fine."

[Type text] Page 49

Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
He was right. With all the windows open, the kitchen smelled like toast, hot cider and cat food
within minutes. We sat down to breakfast at last, happy for once that nothing exciting usually
happens at our house. 

3.3.3. Narrative Essay

Narrative writing tells a story. The narrative writing could also be considered reflection or an
exploration of the writer’s values told as a story. The writer may remember his or her past, or a
memorable person or event from that past, or even observe the present.

The aim of a narrative essay is to describe a course of events from a subjective vantage point, and
may be written in first-person present or first person past tense. Though not always chronological,
narrative essays do follow the development of a person through a series of experiences and
reflections. The focus of the essay is often to more clearly identify the point of view of the narrator,
and to express common features of subjectivity.

When you are writing a narrative essay, loosen up. After all, you are basically just telling a story to
someone, something you probably do every day in casual conversation. Use first person and talk it
through first. You might even want to either tape record your story as if you were telling it to
someone for the first time or actually tell it to a friend.

Once you get the basic story down, then you can begin turning it into an essay. If you feel that you
lack life experience, then you may choose to write about someone else or write about an
observation you have made about a recent event. You could write about your children, your parents,
or your favorite sport or hobby. The important aspect to remember is that you should have a
story. In a successful narrative essay, the writer usually makes a point.

Features

1. The story should have an introduction that clearly indicates what kind of narrative essay it is
(an event or recurring activity, a personal experience, or an observation), and it should have
a conclusion that makes a point.
2. The essay should include anecdotes. The writer should describe the person, the scene, or the
event in some detail. It is okay to include dialogue as long as you know how to punctuate it
correctly and as long as you avoid using too much.
3. The occasion or person described must be suggestive in that your description and thoughts
lead the reader to reflect on the human experience. One of life's lessons is that sometimes
there is no right choice, and that was the point of the essay.
4. The point of view in narrative essays is usually first person. The use of "I" invites your
readers into an intimate discussion.

[Type text] Page 50

Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
5. The writing in your essay should be lively and show some style. Try to describe ideas and
events in new and different ways. Avoid using clichés. Again, get the basic story down, get
it organized, and in your final editing process, work on word choice.

Sample Narrative Essay

It is hard for me to remember much about my first trip abroad (to Egypt, namely), because it was
about fifteen years ago and I myself was almost a child at that time, so a lot of memories have been
lost somewhere on the way.

But the only thing I remember about that trip is that everything from the very beginning went
wrong – not terribly wrong; it was this mildly frustrating “wrong” that doesn’t actually cause any
harm or problems, but makes the whole experience of something a bit specific – not the way you
would like it to be.

To begin with, the flight was first delayed and then cancelled due to sudden and terrible
deterioration of the weather. Some altercations with the travel agency followed, apologies received,
but we didn’t manage to fly anywhere that day.

When the time finally came, we, surprisingly got to our destination without many problems. They
awaited us in Egypt. What do people usually go to Egypt for? To look at the Pyramids, of course,
and that was the idea of our group, but, due to some problems, we didn’t manage to get to the
necessary excursion. The weather for the entirety of our stay there was rather cloudy (which is
unusual for Egypt), so the usual option of sunbathing was also out of the question for some time.
And, to crown it all, at the day of our departure a terrible, never-ending rain started, which,
according to the owner of our hotel, happened for the first time in the last 17 years.

It is all rather amusing to recall now, but, as you may expect, for the first trip abroad it was rather
disappointing.

3.3.4. Argumentative Essay

Argumentative essays are most often used to address controversial issues - i.e. serious issue over
which there is some evident disagreement. An argument is a position combined with its supporting
reasons. Argumentative writings, thus, set out a main claim and then provide reasons for thinking
that the claim is true. These are essays in which the writer pulls out the main thesis and outline of a
particular paper, and then writes an essay in his or her own style.

The art of argumentation is not an easy skill to acquire. Many people might think that if one simply
has an opinion, one can argue it effectively, and these folks are always surprised when others don
not agree with them because their logic seems so correct. Additionally, writers of argumentation

[Type text] Page 51

Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
often forget that their primary purpose in an argument is to "win" it--to sway the reader to accept
their point of view. It is easy to name call, easy to ignore the point of view or research of others,
and extremely easy to accept one's own opinion as gospel, even if the writer has not checked his or
her premise in a couple of years, or, as is the case for many young writers, never questioned the
beliefs inherited from others.

Quite unlike the ordinary meaning of the word, argument as a term in rhetoric refers to the process
of reasoning by advancing proof. Indeed, academic argument can seem dispassionate if one expects
that all argument is done with raised voices and heated tempers. Though academic argument often
does grow very acrimonious, it is more often the product of careful research and thoughtful
consideration of all the facts that one can acquire about the issue. For centuries therefore
rhetoricians advocated the writing of an argumentative essay as a means of learning how to think.
Argument demands that the writer examine a belief by testing the strength of the reasons for
holding such a belief. Argument of this kind forms a "dialectical structure," a dialog, within the
essay itself. In this dialog, the writer explores several sides of the issue under consideration with the
readers in an attempt to demonstrate why one perspective is the most enlightened. The writer's
analysis of the issues (his/her evaluations of the claims, evidence, assumptions, hidden arguments,
and inherent contradictions) leads the writer to champion one perspective of the subject at hand,
even though reasonable, thoughtful, intelligent people advocate different perspectives.

In short, the writer of an argument essay has several goals: the primary goal is to persuade and
move the audience to accept his/her position on an issue, but that is often a very difficult challenge.
A secondary, and more modest goal, is for the writer to articulate why s/he chooses the stance that
s/he does on an issue. The secondary goal recognizes the fact that to persuade is a difficult objective
but that at least the writer can explain his/her reasoning behind his/her position.

Features

1. So, what do you write about? Pick a well-defined, controversial issue. Readers should

understand what the issue is and what is at stake. The issue must be arguable. After stating
your thesis, you will need to discuss the issue in depth so that your reader will understand
the problem fully.
2. A clear position taken by the writer. In your thesis sentence, state what your position is.
You do not need to say. The thesis can be modified elsewhere in the essay if you need to
qualify your position, but avoid hedging in your thesis.
3. A convincing argument. An argumentative essay does not merely assert an opinion; it
presents an argument, and that argument must be backed up by data that persuades readers
that the opinion is valid. This data consists of facts, statistics, the testimony of others
through personal interviews and questionnaires or through articles and books, and examples.
The writer of an argumentative essay should seek to use educated sources that are

[Type text] Page 52

Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
nonbiased, and to use them fairly. It is, therefore, best to avoid using hate groups as a
source, although you can use them briefly as an example of the seriousness of the problem.
Talk shows fall into the same category as they are frequently opinionated or untrue.
4. A reasonable tone. Assume that your reader will disagree with you or be skeptical. It is
important, therefore, that your tone be reasonable, professional, and trustworthy. By
anticipating objections and making concessions, you inspire confidence and show your good
will.

Some Topics for Argumentative Writing

 Have cell phones become a nuisance at public places?
 Should people be given capital punishment for rape?

 Can human beings be completely held responsible for global warming?

 Should cigarette smoking become illegal like drugs?

 Have women found equal status in the world which is usually termed as a male dominated
one?

 Does making uniforms compulsory in schools have any benefits?

Sample Argumentative Essay

Health and Healing at Your Fingertips

Throw out the bottles and boxes of drugs in your house. A new theory suggests that medicine could
be bad for your health, which should at least come as good news to people who cannot afford to
buy expensive medicine. However, it is a blow to the medicine industry, and an even bigger blow to
our confidence in the progress of science. This new theory argues that healing is at our fingertips:
we can be healthy by doing Reiki on a regular basis.

Supporters of medical treatment argue that medicine should be trusted since it is effective and
scientifically proven. They say that there is no need for spiritual methods such as Reiki, Yoga, Tai
Chi. These waste our time, something which is quite precious in our material world. There is
medicine that can kill our pain, x-rays that show us our fractured bones or MRI that scans our
brain for tumors. We must admit that these methods are very effective in the examples that they
provide. However, there are some “every day complaints” such as back pains, headaches,
insomnia, which are treated currently with medicine. When you have a headache, you take an
Aspirin, or Vermidon, when you cannot sleep, you take Xanax without thinking of the side effects of
these. When you use these pills for a long period, you become addicted to them; you cannot sleep

[Type text] Page 53

Basic Writing Skills (EnLa 1012) 2013
without them. We pay huge amounts of money and become addicted instead of getting better. How
about a safer and more economical way of healing?

When doing Reiki to yourself, you do not need anything except your energy so it is very economical.
As for its history, it was discovered in Japan in the early 1900s and its popularity has spread
particularly throughout America and Western Europe. In quantum physics, energy is recognized as
the fundamental substance of which the universe is composed. Reiki depends on the energy within
our bodies. It is a simple and effective way of restoring the energy flow. There are no side effects
and it is scientifically explained.

Opponents of alternative healing methods also claim that serious illnesses such as HIV/AIDS and
cancer cannot be treated without drugs. They think so because these patients spend the rest of their
lives in the hospital taking medicine. How can Reiki make these people healthy again? It is very
unfortunate that these patients have to live in the hospital losing their hair because of
chemotherapy, losing weight because of the side effects of the medicine they take. Actually, it is
common knowledge that except for when the cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, drugs also
cannot treat AIDS or cancer. Most of the medicine these patients use are to ease their pain and
their sufferings because of the medical treatment they undergo. Instead of drugs which are
expensive and have many side effects, you can use your energy to overcome the hardships of life,
find an emotional balance, leave the stress of everyday life and let go of the everyday worries. Most
of the chronic conditions such as eczema or migraine are known to have causes such as poor diet
and stress. Deep rooted anger or other strong emotions can contribute to viral infections as well.
Since balancing our emotions and controlling our thoughts are very important for our well-being,
we should definitely start learning Reiki and avoid illnesses before it is too late.

Some people may still maintain that in our material world, everything depends on time. It is even
“lacking time” that causes much of the stress that leads to the illnesses we mentioned. How would
it be possible to find time to do Reiki to ourselves and the people around us when we cannot even
find time to go to the theater? This is one good thing about Reiki; it does not require more than 15
minutes of our time. There is no need for changing clothes or special equipment. It is a wonderfully
simple healing art, an effective method of relaxation and stress-relief. Most important of all, it is
less time consuming than medicine if we think of all the time we spend taking medicine for some
complaints and taking some more for the side effects as well.

Having said these, resistance to Reiki would be quite illogical. Reiki is natural and drug-free. What
is more, it is easy to learn by anyone, regardless of age and experience. It can be used anywhere,
anytime. It also enhances physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and the benefits last
a lifetime. It is definitely high time to get away from the drug boxes we store in our drug cabinet!

[Type text] Page 54