how to manage your writings. structure of effective academic essays structure of effective academic...

ESSAYS IN

ACADEMIC WRITING TESTS

How to manage your writings

Structure of effective academic essaysAnalyzing topic questionThree main types:

1. Argumentative essays (opinion essay)2. Cause and effect essays (problem-solution

essay)3. Compare and contrast essays

Writing checklist

Types of Essays in IELTS and iBT Tests

Decide whether the questions asks you to

provide general factual information

examine cause and effect

outline problems and give a solution

give and justify an opinion

Evaluate or/and argument

evaluate or challenge ideas, evidence and argument

compare and/or contrast evidence and ideas.

Analyzing topic question

1. In recent years there has been an increase in the number of

people killed on the road. Traffic designers blame drivers for

driving too fast and drivers say the roads are the cause.

2. The highways department blames the high road toll on poor

vehicle maintenance. However, there are strict laws regarding

vehicle maintenance and roadworthiness, and there are

frequent inspections. Traffic accidents can be reduced when

roads and highways are improved.

Analyzing topic question

TO ESSAYS

Review of Paragraph Structure

From paragraph to essay

From PARAGRAPHS to ESSAY

What is a paragraph?

A paragraph is a group of sentences about a topic. A typical

paragraph begins with a topic sentence, which introduces the

topic (1). The supporting sentences that follow support the idea

in the topic sentence with explanations, reasons, and other

details (2). The concluding sentence brings the paragraph to an

end. (3)


Formatting a Paragraph:

Leave one-inch margins on the left and right side of the

page.

Indent the first sentence. The rest of the sentences follow

each other, so that the paragraph looks like a square with a

little space taken out of the corner.

Double – space your paragraph


Introducing the topic, an idea or opinion about the topic. This idea is called a controlling idea about the topic.

E.g. Certain types of insects can benefit a garden.

Not being a simple fact or detail; instead, containing a specific idea, not too general

E.g. 1. There are approximately 4,000 chemicals in cigarette smoke (fact, not topic sentence).2. Smoking is bad. (idea too general for a topic sentence)3. Smoking advertisements are a harmful influence on children. (specific idea)

The topic sentence

usually appearing as the first or second sentence of a paragraph.E.g. Have you ever noticed closets are getting bigger and rooms are getting smaller? Changes in popular culture can be seen in changes to the typical family home. (second sentence topic)

Implying the purpose of the paragraph: to explain, narrate, compare, describe, tell cause or effect, demonstrate or argue, or tell steps in a process.E.g. 1. My sister’s personality is completely different from mine. (shows comparison)

2. Smoking results in thousands of smoking – related deaths each year. (tells cause and effect)

The topic sentence

Adding information about the topic and the controlling

idea.

Types of supporting sentences: ◦ definition,◦ explanations,◦ examples

The supporting sentences

Reminding the reader of the topic and controlling idea of the

paragraph,

Restating the main idea,

Functions of cl. Sentence:

◦Warning the reader

◦Making prediction

◦Giving an opinion about the topic

• Appearing with phases like In conclusion,/ In short,/ In summary,

The concluding sentence

all the sentences supporting one single idea.

having one controlling idea in the topic sentence.

supporting sentences supporting, demonstrating,

proving, or developing the main idea in the topic

sentence.

concluding sentence restating the idea in the topic

sentence to reinforce the main idea for the reader.

Unity within a paragraph

ideas have a logical flow: the relationship between

the sentences is clear and one idea connects to the

next. One way to achieve coherence in a paragraph

is to use a pattern of organization, such as time

order, spatial order, or order of importance.

Coherence in a Paragraph

Like a paragraph, an essay has three basic parts: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

Introduction: the first paragraph containing a topic sentence and thesis statement.

Body paragraph: at least one or two body paragraphs developing the idea (s) presented in the introduction.

Conclusion: the final paragraph summarizing the idea (s) presented in the essay.

From paragraph to essay

An effective assay introduction must have the following

elements.

A hook is an opening sentence that attracts the reader’s attention.

The sentences after the hook give background information

necessary to understand the topic.

The last sentence in the introduction, the thesis statement, is very

important because it gives the topic and the controlling idea of

the entire assay.

Effective introduction

Introduction The hook introduces a controversial issue: a short story or

an anecdote, a question, or a surprising statement of fact that makes the reader want to know more.

The middle sentences explain why the issue is important by giving background information with details about the history or the people involved, what they want, or how it affects them.

The thesis statement at the end presents the writer’s point of view.

Argumentative essays

Body Paragraph The topic sentence has a controlling idea that supports the

writer’s main argument in the thesis. The following sentences support the topic sentence with

reasons, facts, and explanations to help the reader understand the writer’s point of view.

The body paragraph often includes a statements that describes the opposing opinion. This is called the counter – argument. The writer then argues against the counter - argument. This is called a refutation. In the refutation, the writer points out weaknesses in the couter-argument, and shows how his own argument is stronger.


Conclusion

This restates the writer’s opinion, but often

using different, more persuasive language.

It may also offer a warning, a prediction, or

other type of comment that reinforces the

writer’s viewpoint.


Facts and Opinions

Writers state their opinion and then back it up with facts. The

difference between facts and opinions is

◦Fact: a truth that is scientifically proven of generally accepted

E.g. Antibiotics cure infections.

◦Opinion: one point of view among many.

E.g. Antibiotics are the most important invention of

the twentieth century


Interpreting Facts to Support an Opinion

Opinion

Animals use language to communicate with each other

Factual examples

Arctic wolves, for example, communicate the presence of caribou through their howls and

barks. Other wolves hear the massages and are able to meet their pack to join the hunt.

Interpretation

Clearly, if another animal can understand vocalized massages that tell him or her the

location of food, then that animal is using language.


Counter – Argument and Refutation

The counter – argument is the opposing opinion. It disagrees

with the writer’s position. By including the counter – arguments,

writer shows an understanding of other points of view.

In the refutation, the writer shows why the counter – argument is

weak and the writer’s position is strong. The refutation may also

address doubts the reader may have about the writer’s position.


Introduction The hook engages the reader’s interest by personalizing the topic

or showing why it is important for the reader to know about it.

The middle sentences describe the event or situation that is the

result of the causes. This background information helps the reader

understand the relationship between the causes and the effects.

The thesis statement at the end of the introduction states two

causes that lead up to the event or situation. It may also include a

comment by the writer that explains why it is important to

understand the causes of the event.

Cause - effect essays

Body Paragraphs

Two body paragraphs support the thesis statement by

explaining the causes in detail.

Each body paragraph begins with a topic sentence that states

one cause for the event or situation.

The sentences that follow support the idea in the topic

sentence. The supporting sentences include details such as

examples, description, reasons, and facts to help the reader

understand the relationship between the cause and the event.


Conclusion

The conclusion restates the thesis statement, often using

different language.

It summarizes the main causes and their relationship to

the event.

It may include a comment by the writer that explains

why it is important to understand the causes of the event.


Causal ChainsSometimes, the causes of an event happen in a sequence in which one event leads to another in a chain. Depending on the event or situation, the writer must explain how the causes in a chain are related to each other.

Cause 1 -> Cause 2 -> result bad weather -> slippery roads -> auto

accidents Auto accidents occur more frequently when the weather is bad. Rain, snow, and especially ice can make the roads slippery. Drivers can easily lose control of a car slippery roads. A car can slide on the pavement and hit another car or go into a ditch. Therefore, bad weather can lead to more accidents on the road.


Expressing Future Possibility With If – Clauses Sentences with an If - clause show a cause – effect

relationship. The if - clause introduces a possible situation (the cause). The main clause talks about the possible result (the effect) of the situation.

Use the present tense in the if clause and will in the main clause.

Cause EffectIf X happens, Y will happen, too

The cause and effect clauses can come in either order. When the if clause comes first, it is followed by a comma.

Cause EffectIf Pedro plays, we will win the game


A comparison and contrast essay describes the qualities of a

subject or an idea by discussing the similarities and differences it

shares with a different subject or idea.

A comparison and contrast essay can be organized in two

different ways.

◦By comparing and contrasting a number of issues point-

by-point

◦By focusing first on the similarities and then the

differences.

Compare-contrast essays

Introduction

Presents the subject that is to be compared or

contrasted

Ends with a thesis statement that focuses on the

comparison or contrast Conclusion

This allows the writer to summarize the differences and

similarities and state his or her feeling about the topic.


Body paragraph with Point – by – Point organization

There are two body paragraphs, each with a clear topic sentence.

Each body paragraph presents one main point to be compared or

contrasted between the two subjects.

Within each body paragraph, the topic sentence states the point of

comparison or contrast between the subjects. The supporting

sentences that follow provide two or three examples.

The body paragraphs use sequence transitions, such as first, second,

furthermore, etc…to connect the point – by - point analysis within the

paragraph.


Body Paragraph with Similarities and

Differences organization

There are two body paragraphs, each with a clear

topic sentence.

One body paragraph is devoted to similarities

between the two subjects, and one body paragraph

is devoted to differences.


Check the common Types of Mistakes

When you are proofreading you work you should check for

the following common errors.

Subject – verb agreement

Tenses

Word form

Wrong article : the – incorrect use of article

Punctuation

Writing checklists

Writing an effective

introductionSample writing task: When people visit other

countries they often find the customs of dressing and behavior are different than in their home country. Should visitors adopt the customs of the country they visit or should they follow the customs of their own country?

Attack the question: argument with two clearly—stated opinions -> argumentative essay -> either for OR against Or both for AND against.


introductionWriting techniques: 3 common WAYS1st the simplest: Copy the words from the Task

Example:

When people visit other countries they often find the

customs of dressing and behavior are different than in their

home country. Should visitors adopt the customs of the

country they visit or should they follow the customs of their

own country?


introduction2nd set formula: Use a ‘stock paragraph’ that can be adapted to any taskExample

Many people wonder / are talking about / debate

what should be done about ___. Some people think

that it is best ___. However, other people think that

___. This is not a an easy question to answer but in

this essay we will look at this issue


introduction2nd set formula: Use a ‘stock paragraph’ that can be adapted to any taskExample:

Many people wonder what to do when they visit other

countries. Some people think it is best for them to adopt

the local customs. However, other people think it is best

to follow the customs of their own countries. This is not

a an easy question to answer but in this essay we will

look at this issue.


introduction3rd creativity: Find new words to describe the taskExample:

Tourists and business travelers often visit countries that are

different than their own. There may be different customs and

practices. Is it best for them to adopt the practices of the

country they visit or is it acceptable for them to follow the

customs of their own country?


introductionThe fourth fighting way: one of the mixExample:

Culture shock is a term referring to the culture conflict taking

place within the same person’s awareness when transferring

from this culture to another culture whatever their purpose of

moving is. This has been addressed with a universal question

of whether visiting businessmen and travellers should try to

adapt to the new culture or should keep to their own culture.

Different viewers wear different viewpoints on this: while some

……..


introductionPractice on the following writing tasks:

1. Some people say that advertising encourages us to buy things we really do not need. Others say that advertisements tell us about new products that may improve our lives. Which viewpoint do you agree with? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

2. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Advertising can tell you a lot about a country. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.


introductionPractice on the following writing tasks:

1. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Attending a live performance (for example, a play, concert, or sporting event) is more enjoyable than watching the same event on television. Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion..

2. It is sometimes said that borrowing money from a friend can harm or damage the friendship. Do you agree? Why or why not? Use reasons and specific examples to explain your answer.

Writing an impressive conclusion

Basic rules: A good conclusion must always restate the introduction:

What has been writtenWhat has been in focusWhat has been included

The conclusion is impressive with impressive comment from the writer:

what has been excluded


Paraphrasing techniques: A step by step process Example passage“Marriage was a greater influence on the course of many of the women's lives than choice of job or career, or even family background. Yet few women talked about choosing to get married (although choice may be a misnomer) in the same way they talked about career choices. Relationships are generally believed to belong to the realm of emotion, and ‘we fell in love’ or ‘then I got married’ suffices. The decision to marry is not usually something to be analysed or explained, nor is the choice of a particular man. Indeed, both getting married and marrying a particular man often appeared to be inevitabilities rather than choices. Women did talk about how they met their future husbands, however” (Park, 1991, p. 113).


1. Underline the main points. “Marriage was a greater influence on the course of many of the women’s lives than choice of job or career, or even family background. Yet few women talked about choosing to get married (although choice may be a misnomer) in the same way they talked about career choices. Relationships are generally believed to belong to the realm of emotion, and ‘we fell in love’ or ‘then I got married’ suffices. The decision to marry is not usually something to be analysed or explained, nor is the choice of a particular man. Indeed, both getting married and marrying a particular man often appeared to be inevitabilities rather than choices. Women did talk about how they met their future husbands, however”


2. List some key ideas, concepts, and phrases marriage, getting married

marriage was a great influence

decision to marry

not usually something to be analysed or explained

getting married and marrying a particular man often

appeared to be inevitabilities rather than choices


3. Where possible, note down alternative phrases or synonyms for each of these. marriage, getting marriedmarriage was a great influencedecision to marry

not usually something to be analysed or explainedgetting married and marrying a particular man often appeared to be inevitabilities rather than choices

selecting a life partnersignificant impact, influential factorchoice, marriage options, choice of partnertypically not talked about, not a topic of discussionthe process of marriage and choice of partner were more a matter of course, something inevitable, compared to individual choice


4. Rewrite, using those alternative words and phrases Marriage was an influential factor in the women's lives. This was more so than other factors. Yet, at the same time, marriage options, including choice of partner, were typically not a topic of discussion for most women. Few women actually discussed the subject. Indeed, the process of marriage and choice of partner were more a matter of course, something inevitable, compared to individual choice.


Final question: 5. Can you simplify further?

“Although marriage impacted the women's lives

significantly, it was not a decision that was analyzed;

indeed, it was more a matter, of course, than

individual choice.”


Paraphrasing techniques: Synonyms

Reordering phrasesChanging voices

Changing parts of speechSentence combining

Change from a Clause to a Phrase


Synonyms: words with similar meaningExamples:

Further practice

Overuse of ground water would lead to pervasive drought.

Overuse of ground water would cause widespread dryness.


Reordering phrases: change phrases’ position

Further practice


Widespread dryness would be a result of overuse of ground water.


Changing voices: active passive

Further practice


Widespread dryness would be caused by (the) overuse of ground water.

The use of renewable sources could stop the destruction of the rainforests.

The destruction of the rainforests could be stopped by the use of renewable sources.


Changing parts of speech: Verb noun adjective adverb

Further practice

The use of renewable sources could stop the destruction of the rainforests.

Using renewable sources could stop people destroying the rainforests.


Sentence combining: simple compound/complex

Further practice

Typhoon forced more than a thousand people to escape from villages in the mountains. It poured over one meter of heavy rain on mountainous areas. (2 sentences)

Typhoon forced more than a thousand people to escape from villages in the mountains as it poured over one meter of heavy rain on mountainous areas. (01 sentence)


Change from a Clause to a Phrase :

Further practice

After he studied, John took a nap.

After studying, John took a nap.

The house that is across the street is new.

The house across the street is new.


Your turn

Further practice

Wish you success !

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