Misconceptions About Essay Writing
ENG3U Essay Writing
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Misconceptions about Essay Writing:
Writing is like following a blue print: there is a specific number of paragraphs and words
All essays have a thesis statement and must argue or prove something
If I don’t get it right the first time, I’ve failed
When I write, I am speaking on paper
The best words are the biggest ones
I don’t like to write essays
The Basics of Essay Writing:
- Don’t worry about the number of paragraphs/words: the context, topic, and scope of your essay should help to determine its length. For example, a narrative essay about adopting a dog from the SPCA will be shorter than a research essay on the causes of the Russian Revolution.
- All essays include a topic; and while many include a thesis statement (either explicit or implicit), some styles have a different purpose, such as to entertain or to inform
- Some essays can be informal but others should be more formal, with clear and well-structured paragraphs and language; the tone, style and format of an essay change depending on the type
- Challenge yourself by using a thesaurus, but don’t use diction that you don’t understand
- Essays are not necessarily “fun” or interesting to write when they are assigned to you—but if you are given choices, you can write an essay that appeals to you
The Choices
1. The EXPOSITORY Essay (To explain)
This essay describes or explains a topic in an objective, clear, and formal writing style.
Sample Essay Topics/Titles:
2. The ARGUMENTATIVE Essay (To defend a position)
The argumentative essay chooses a side, makes a case for it, considers and refutes alternative arguments, and proves to the undecided reader that the opinion it presents is the best one. It may include a counter-argument paragraph, which acknowledges the other side and then disproves it with stronger supports. The argumentative essay uses a combination of effective diction and logic to support its points.
Sample Essay Topics/Titles:
3. The NARRATIVE Essay (To tell a story)
A single well-told story is the basis for drawing a conclusion or making a statement of opinion in this essay. It is typically written for enjoyment and is usually more informal in its structure and language than other essay types. You may use apostrophe (speak directly to the reader), a conversational tone, and the first-person (if the story is about you). Try to maintain a sense of your own personality (voice).
Sample Essay Topics/Titles: