Writing an
Essay in Response to an Article/Reading
*You may
bring this sheet to the midterm
I. Intro
A. Summary of the
article in its own ¶:
1. Title in
quotes
2. Author's
full name
3. Author's
main idea: State it in your own words
*These
three should appear in the first sentence
4. Author's
main points:
·
Put the main points into
your own words
·
Only include main
points; no examples
*Citation
is not required as you are referencing the entire piece and have already
mentioned the author’s name.
B. Transition:
Smoothly lead the reader from the writer’s topic to yours (Ex: Shiflett makes some
interesting points about SUVs, which do bear consideration. However, looking at the severity of the
effects and the apparent lack of real need for them…)
C. Thesis:
Make sure it is strong and focused; state as fact!
Ex: …it is hard to
justify owning one, particularly in
II. Body:
Main points: Give each its own ¶, topic sentence and
support
·
Have at least 2-3 main
point body paragraphs
·
Include specific
examples to support your topic sentence
·
Add your own
explanations and reflections re: evidence