In your essay you should take a stand. You need to make an argument.  Your goal is to persuade your reader. As examples, you can consult the sample essays I have posted in our weekly modules and the sample student essays on Norton’s website.

In this first essay, I will be looking for two specific things: 1) Correct structure, 2) Strong argument.

Structure: Your essay should have a fully-developed introduction, body and conclusion.

The introduction should have an effective attention getter (a hook). This is the first few sentences of an essay and it is used to make the reader interested in the topic. Your introduction should also have a thesis (central idea) statement. The thesis captures the essence of the main argument made in the essay. It should be expressed clearly. Credibility and preview statements are also welcome.

The body of your essay should have 2-3 main points (paragraphs). Each main point in the body should have a distinct main idea. In other words, each main point should make a distinct argument. The argument should be supported with evidence and supporting materials. 

The conclusion of your essay should have a concluding sentence (restating your argument) and/or a clincher.

(If you need to refresh your knowledge on how to build paragraphs,  or how to construct an introduction, body or conclusion, you may consult handout in  in Norton’s website.)

Argument:  Your argument should be clear in your thesis statement.  Your main points should meaningfully develop and support this argument with substantial research.

Your essay should follow APA guidelines. It should be 500-800 words, double-spaced, Times New Roman 12, carefully edited, free of grammar and spelling mistakes. It should use at least four outside sources. You are welcome to use more.