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5 Paragraph Essay

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Chapter 6

Essay Writing

Outline for a Five-Paragraph Essay


Paragraph 1: Introduction
The introductory paragraph should include the following elements:
Background information: Enough information necessary for your reader to
understand your topic.

and provides an overview of the three main supporting points that will unify the
essay. The thesis statement is typically the last sentence.
If you are writing in response to a text, the introduction should include the title,
author, and genre of that piece.

Paragraph 2: First Body Paragraph (Point 1)


Begins with a topic sentence that identifies one main idea that will be discussed as
support or proof for the thesis statement.
Supporting sentences use specific details, demonstrated through closely related
examples or evidence, to expand and explain the main idea. Generally, a well-
developed paragraph has at least five to eight sentences.
Paragraph unity means that all ideas in a paragraph are closely related to its topic
sentence and further develop that topic sentence. That is, all sentences in a single
paragraph must be unified around a central point or idea

Paragraph 3: Second Body Paragraph (Point 2)


This paragraph, and any subsequent body paragraph, should begin with a topic
sentence that signals the reader that a new idea or point is being introduced.
As you organize your essay, keep in mind its coherence. Coherence refers to
connections among paragraphs and ideas the logical sequence of your thoughts.
Use transition words or phrases at the outset of your body paragraphs and to move
from one idea to another within your paragraphs.
Have you transitioned logically from the main idea in the previous paragraph to this
one? Are you making clear connections among the paragraphs and ideas? Be sure
to think about coherence during the revision stage of the writing process.

Paragraph 4: Third Body Paragraph (Point 3)


This paragraph begins with the final topic sentence that relates back to the
remaining point mentioned in the thesis statement. Each paragraph should contain
a new main idea.
Again, flesh out this main idea with specific examples, details, and relevant support.
Be sure to maintain paragraph unity. That is, each sentence must relate to your topic
sentence.

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Paragraph 5: Conclusion
The conclusion revisits your overall purpose for writing and often invites your
reader to consider the implications of why your ideas are significant.
The conclusion may restate the thesis, summarize the essay
the reader with a final thought to ponder. If you choose to restate the thesis or
summarize the essays main ideas, do not repeat the same wording from the
introduction or body paragraphs. Remember not to introduce new, unrelated ideas
in the conclusion.

Points to Remember:
essay

the ideas that you have gathered together for a unified essay.

Remember, while the five-paragraph essay is a common assignment, other writing


may require a more in-depth thesis, often leading to a paper with more than three
supporting points in need of their own body paragraphs. Follow the plan for
Paragraph 3 if you need to expand beyond three main points. Check with your
instructor to ensure whether or not you can exceed this length for an assignment.

Graphic organizer for a five-paragraph essay

Paragraph 1: Introduction
Background information:

Thesis Statement:

Paragraph 2: First Body Paragraph (Point 1)


Topic Sentence:

Supporting Details:

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Paragraph 3: Second Body Paragraph (Point 2)
Topic Sentence:

Supporting Details:

Paragraph 4: Third Body Paragraph (Point 3)


Topic Sentence:

Supporting Details:

Paragraph 5: Conclusion

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