ERW Essay FormatBody paragraph structure and useful transitions

Introductions

5-7 sentences.

Discuss general ideas about the topic.

Ask questions, tell a story, etc (see introduction handout)

End with a THESIS answer the question in the prompt Divide your thesis into 2 distinct parts

Body 1

TS Topic sentence (an opinion about the topic) CD Fact-can be quote, paraphrase, or personal example CM your opinion about the CD

Don’t say “I think/feel”…just state your opinion CM CD CM CM CD CM CM CS Wrap up the paragraph with an opinion (similar to TS)

Body 2

TS Topic sentence (an opinion about the topic) CD Fact-can be quote, paraphrase, or personal example CM your opinion about the CD

Don’t say “I think/feel”…just state your opinion CM CD CM CM CD CM CM CS Wrap up the paragraph with an opinion (similar to TS)

Conclusion

5-7 sentences.

Don’t introduce new ideas.

Wrap up, summarize your points.

Try to end with a suggestion/recommendation…something positive.

Citations

Before using a quote, make sure you introduce it.

Start with a transition, then a signal phrase, then your quote.

 For example, the L.A. Times reports, “Ten out of one hundred teachers hate their students” (3).

Transitions

You need a transition before EACH CD

3 CDs means you need 3 transitions

For example, Mrs. Keefer is the best teacher ever. FACT

Addition signals: First of all, second, third, also, next, another, in addition, moreover, furthermore, finally, last of all

Time signals: first, then, next, after, before, while, meanwhile, now, finally

More Transitions

Change of direction signals: but, however, yet, in contrast, although, otherwise, on the other hand

Illustration signals: for example, for instance, specifically, as an illustration, such as

Conclusion signals: therefore, consequently, thus, then, as a result, in summary, last of all, finally