COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL
Underline key words. Underline the key words in the question. You must stick to the topic indicated by the key words. Focus on what the question asks about the key words, and prepare a relevant response. The blank page can be intimidating, but resist the urge to include random ideas just to fill up space. Adding unrelated information can backfire, resulting in a loss of points. Do not begin a sentence with “I believe” or “In my opinion,” unless the question clearly asks for your opinion, belief or personal interpretation . Circle action words. While short answer questions generally ask for factual-type information, essay questions look for a deeper analysis and more thorough demonstration of knowledge. Typical essay question action words are “ analyze ”, “ compare and contrast ”, “ defend ”, “ refute ”, “ discuss and compare ”, “ state the cause and effect of ”, “ evaluate ”, and “ summarize. ” Develop a mental bank of words and phrases that support certain action words and signal to the reader the direction of the essay. For example, for “compare and contrast” use phrases like “by contrast”, “in comparison”, “on the other hand”, “likewise”, “as a result of”, “it is evident that”, or “similarly” in your response. Using words and phrases that support the action word tells the reader (your teacher) that you understood what was asked and that you structured your response as required by the action word. PRODUCT PREVIEW Brainstorm! No matter how concerned you are about time or how sure you are of the answer, do not jump right in and start writing. “Stream of consciousness” writing usually ends up with the writer writing themself into a corner, or failing to address the prompt. Expositive essays require thought, organization and structure. First, get your schema on! Brainstorm what you know about the topic. Jot down words, ideas and I Introduction/Thesis A. Subtopic 1. Idea 2. Detail/Example B. Subtopic 1. Idea 2. Detail/Example C. Subtopic 1. Idea BRAINSTORM OUTLINE
facts. Reread the question and think through your answer, from introduction to conclusion.
2. Detail/Example
II Conclusion
Create an essay outline. Once you have brainstormed and thought through your answer, organize the ideas and facts into a basic RCNi outline. Don’t obsess over how neat it is. It’s function is to provide structure and direction for a 5 paragraph essay. Include an introduction with a one-sentence thesis statement and three subtopics. List supporting information and details for the subtopics. Conclude with a summary. Get writing! The oft-maligned five-paragraph essay is adequate for high school writing. After all, you have to walk before you can run, right? So practice, practice, practice your 5PE skills. Once you are comfortable with the format, use it as a foundation for developing a more sophisticated and
THE 21st CENTURY STUDENT’S GUIDE TO STUDY SKILLS 177
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software