FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCE, ARTS AND HUMANITIES

BACHELOR OF TESL DEPARTMENT

LECTURE NOTE

Subject: Advanced English

Lecturer: Dr Uranus Saadat
Lesson: 4
Topic: A Model for Writing II
Table of Content
1. Overview of the Five-Paragraph Essay
 Definition and Structure
 Purpose and Importance
2. Thesis Statement and Controlling Idea
 Crafting a Strong Thesis
 Establishing Control over the Essay
3. Central Paragraphs
 Developing the Body of the Essay
 Incorporating Evidence and Examples
4. Introduction
 Hooking the Reader
 Presenting Background Information
 Stating the Thesis
5. Conclusion
 Summarizing Key Points
 Restating the Thesis
 Providing Closure and Implications
Overview of the Five-Paragraph Essay:

Definition and Structure:

The five-paragraph essay is a common format used in academic writing, particularly in middle and
high school settings, to teach students how to organize their thoughts and present them cohesively.
As the name suggests, it consists of five paragraphs, each serving a specific purpose within the
essay's structure.

1. Introduction: The first paragraph of the essay, where the topic is introduced, and a thesis
statement is presented. The thesis statement is a concise summary of the main argument or
point the essay will make.

2. Body Paragraphs (3 paragraphs): The next three paragraphs form the body of the essay.
Each paragraph focuses on one main idea or aspect of the topic introduced in the
introduction. These paragraphs provide supporting evidence, examples, and analysis to
reinforce the thesis statement.

3. Conclusion: The final paragraph of the essay, where the main points are summarized, and
the thesis statement is restated in different words. The conclusion often reflects on the
significance of the argument and may suggest implications or future directions for further
exploration.

Purpose and Importance:

The five-paragraph essay serves several purposes in the realm of education:

1. Teaching Structured Writing: By following a specific format, students learn how to organize
their ideas logically and coherently, enhancing their overall writing skills.

2. Clarity and Focus: The format encourages students to express their thoughts clearly and
concisely, with each paragraph focusing on a single idea. This helps readers follow the
argument more easily.

3. Introduction to Essay Writing: The five-paragraph essay provides a foundational structure

for students who are new to essay writing, helping them understand the basic components
of an essay.

4. Preparation for Academic Writing: While the five-paragraph essay may be simplistic for
some academic contexts, mastering its structure lays the groundwork for more complex and
sophisticated forms of writing.

Example:

Consider an essay prompt on the topic of climate change. A student might write a five-paragraph
essay structured as follows:

1. Introduction: Introduces the topic of climate change and presents a thesis statement, such
as "Climate change poses significant challenges to the environment, economy, and human
well-being."

2. Body Paragraph 1: Discusses the environmental impacts of climate change, providing

evidence such as rising global temperatures, melting ice caps, and extreme weather events.
 3. Body Paragraph 2: Explores the economic consequences of climate change, citing examples
such as loss of agricultural productivity, increased healthcare costs, and damage to
infrastructure.

4. Body Paragraph 3: Examines the social implications of climate change, including

displacement of populations, exacerbation of inequality, and threats to public health.

5. Conclusion: Summarizes the main points of the essay and restates the thesis, emphasizing
the urgent need for action to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

Thesis Statement and Controlling Idea:

Crafting a Strong Thesis:

A thesis statement is the central claim or argument of an essay. It serves as a roadmap for the
reader, outlining the main points that will be discussed and guiding the direction of the essay.
Crafting a strong thesis involves several key elements:

1. Clarity: A good thesis statement is clear and specific, avoiding vague language or broad
generalizations. It clearly articulates the writer's position or perspective on the topic.

2. Specificity: The thesis should address a single, focused idea or argument rather than trying
to encompass multiple complex concepts. This helps maintain clarity and coherence
throughout the essay.

3. Debatable: A strong thesis statement presents an argument that is open to interpretation or

debate. It should not simply state a fact but rather take a stance that can be supported with
evidence and reasoning.

4. Relevance: The thesis statement should be directly relevant to the topic of the essay and
reflect its scope and purpose. It should address the "so what?" question, indicating why the
topic is significant and worthy of discussion.

Establishing Control over the Essay:

The controlling idea is closely related to the thesis statement and serves to maintain focus and
coherence within the essay. It is the overarching concept or theme that governs the content of the
essay and ensures that all paragraphs contribute to the central argument. Establishing control over
the essay involves:

1. Topic Sentences: Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that clearly states the
main point or argument of that paragraph. These topic sentences should relate back to and
support the thesis statement, reinforcing the overall argument of the essay.

2. Unity and Coherence: All the ideas presented in the essay should be directly relevant to the
thesis statement and contribute to the development of the central argument. Each
paragraph should flow logically from one to the next, building upon the previous points and
leading the reader towards a coherent conclusion.
 3. Transitions: Smooth transitions between paragraphs and sections of the essay help maintain
the reader's understanding and engagement. Transitions can be achieved through the use of
transitional words and phrases, as well as through logical connections between ideas.

4. Revision and Editing: Reviewing the essay to ensure that every sentence and paragraph
aligns with the thesis statement and contributes to the controlling idea is essential. Revision
may involve rearranging or rephrasing content to strengthen the overall coherence and
effectiveness of the essay.

Example:

Consider an essay exploring the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships. A strong
thesis statement might be:

"Social media has both positive and negative effects on interpersonal relationships, fostering
connections but also leading to increased social comparison and decreased face-to-face interaction."

In this thesis statement, the writer takes a clear stance on the topic (that social media has both
positive and negative effects) and provides a preview of the main points that will be discussed in the
essay. Throughout the essay, each paragraph would focus on supporting this thesis statement by
examining specific aspects of the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships, such as
communication patterns, self-esteem, and emotional well-being. Each paragraph's topic sentence
would tie back to the thesis statement, maintaining control and coherence throughout the essay.

Central Paragraphs:

Developing the Body of the Essay:

The central paragraphs, often referred to as the body paragraphs, form the heart of the essay. These
paragraphs provide the opportunity to develop and support the main argument or thesis statement
presented in the introduction. Here's how to effectively develop the body of the essay:

1. Topic Sentence: Each body paragraph should begin with a clear topic sentence that
introduces the main point or argument to be discussed in that paragraph. This topic
sentence should relate directly to the thesis statement and provide a roadmap for the
paragraph.

2. Supporting Details: After introducing the topic sentence, the paragraph should provide
supporting details, evidence, and analysis to substantiate the main point. This could include
facts, statistics, quotations, expert opinions, or examples that help illustrate and reinforce
the argument.

3. Analysis and Interpretation: It's not enough to simply present evidence; the writer should
also analyze and interpret it to demonstrate its relevance and significance to the argument.
This analysis helps to connect the evidence back to the thesis statement and provides insight
into how it supports the overall argument.

4. Transitions: Smooth transitions between paragraphs and ideas are essential for maintaining
coherence and flow within the essay. Transitions can be achieved through the use of
transitional words and phrases that signal connections between ideas, such as
"furthermore," "in addition," "however," or "on the other hand."
Incorporating Evidence and Examples:

Effective use of evidence and examples is crucial for strengthening the argument presented in the
essay. Here's how to incorporate evidence and examples effectively:

1. Relevance: Choose evidence and examples that are directly relevant to the main argument
of the essay. Avoid tangents or irrelevant information that detracts from the central thesis.

2. Variety: Use a variety of types of evidence and examples to support your argument. This
could include empirical data, case studies, personal anecdotes, historical examples, or
theoretical frameworks, depending on the nature of the topic and the requirements of the
assignment.

3. Credibility: Ensure that the evidence and examples you use are credible and reliable. This
might involve citing reputable sources, such as academic journals, books, or government
reports, and critically evaluating the credibility of any sources you use.

4. Integration: Integrate evidence and examples seamlessly into the text of the essay,
providing context and explanation as needed. Avoid simply dropping quotations or facts
without any explanation or analysis of their significance.

Example:

Suppose you're writing an essay arguing for the importance of renewable energy in combating
climate change. Here's how you might develop a body paragraph and incorporate evidence:

Topic Sentence: One of the key benefits of renewable energy sources is their ability to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions.

Supporting Details: According to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA),
solar and wind energy have the potential to significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions compared
to fossil fuels. For example, in 2020 alone, the use of renewable energy sources prevented over 2
billion metric tons of CO2 emissions globally (IRENA, 2021). This evidence highlights the
environmental benefits of transitioning to renewable energy sources and underscores the urgency of
addressing climate change.

Analysis and Interpretation: By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy sources help
mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and
sea-level rise. This demonstrates the crucial role that renewable energy plays in addressing one of
the most pressing challenges of our time and underscores the importance of transitioning away from
fossil fuels.

In this example, the body paragraph begins with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main
point to be discussed. Evidence from a credible source (IRENA) is then presented to support the
argument, followed by analysis and interpretation that connects the evidence back to the thesis
statement. This demonstrates how evidence and examples can be effectively incorporated into the
body paragraphs of an essay to strengthen the overall argument.

Introduction:

Hooking the Reader:

The hook is the opening line or lines of your essay that grab the reader's attention and draw them
into the topic. Here are some effective strategies for hooking the reader:

1. Anecdote: Start with a short, engaging story or anecdote related to your topic. This can
humanize the subject matter and make it more relatable to the reader.

2. Question: Pose a thought-provoking question that stimulates curiosity and encourages the
reader to continue reading to find the answer.

3. Statistic or Fact: Begin with a surprising or compelling statistic or fact that highlights the
importance or relevance of your topic.

4. Quotation: Use a relevant quotation from a notable figure or source that sets the tone for
your essay and captures the essence of your argument.

5. Description: Paint a vivid picture or scene that evokes emotion and immerses the reader in
the world of your topic.

Presenting Background Information:

After hooking the reader, provide some background information to contextualize the topic and
provide necessary context for understanding the rest of the essay. This might include:

1. Definition: Define key terms or concepts relevant to your topic to ensure that all readers
understand the terminology you'll be using.

2. Historical Context: Provide a brief overview of the historical context or background of the
topic, explaining how it has evolved over time and why it's relevant today.

3. Scope and Significance: Explain the scope of your essay and why the topic is important or
worthy of discussion. What are the broader implications or consequences of the issues you'll
be addressing?

Stating the Thesis:

The thesis statement is the central claim or argument of your essay, typically presented at the end of
the introduction. It should be clear, concise, and debatable, providing a roadmap for the rest of the
essay. When stating the thesis:

1. Clarity: Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic so that readers know what
to expect from the rest of the essay.

2. Specificity: Be specific about the scope of your argument and the points you'll be addressing
in the essay.

3. Debatable: Present an argument that invites discussion or debate rather than stating a fact
or making a general observation.

Example:

Suppose you're writing an essay on the importance of empathy in fostering positive social change.
Here's how you might structure the introduction:

Hook: "Imagine a world where everyone walked a mile in each other's shoes. Would understanding
and compassion flourish, or would it merely be a utopian dream? This question lies at the heart of
our exploration into the role of empathy in shaping societies."
Background Information: Empathy, often described as the ability to understand and share the
feelings of others, has long been recognized as a fundamental aspect of human interaction. From the
teachings of ancient philosophers to the latest research in psychology, empathy has been celebrated
as a catalyst for cooperation, understanding, and social cohesion.

Stating the Thesis: In this essay, we will delve into the profound impact of empathy on fostering
positive social change. By examining its role in promoting inclusivity, reducing conflict, and nurturing
compassion, we will demonstrate that empathy is not merely a desirable trait but a crucial catalyst
for building a more harmonious and equitable world.

In this example, the introduction begins with a thought-provoking question to hook the reader's
interest, followed by background information that contextualizes the topic of empathy. The thesis
statement is then clearly stated, outlining the main argument of the essay and providing a preview
of the points that will be discussed in the body paragraphs.

Conclusion:

Summarizing Key Points:

The conclusion is your final opportunity to reinforce the main points of your essay and leave a lasting
impression on the reader. Here's how to effectively summarize key points:

1. Review: Provide a brief recap of the main arguments and evidence presented in the body
paragraphs. Summarize the key points you've made throughout the essay.

2. Avoid Introducing New Information: The conclusion is not the place to introduce new ideas
or evidence. Stick to summarizing what has already been discussed in the essay.

3. Conciseness: Keep your summary concise and focused. Highlight the most important points
without going into unnecessary detail.

Restating the Thesis:

After summarizing the key points, restate the thesis statement in slightly different words. This helps
reinforce the central argument of your essay and reminds the reader of the main message you want
them to take away. When restating the thesis:

1. Paraphrase: Express the thesis statement in different words from those used in the
introduction. This shows creativity and reinforces the central argument without sounding
repetitive.

2. Relevance: Connect the restated thesis back to the main points discussed in the essay.
Remind the reader how the evidence and arguments presented support the thesis
statement.

Providing Closure and Implications:

Finally, provide closure to your essay by offering some final thoughts or reflections on the topic.
Consider the broader implications of your argument and suggest possible avenues for further
exploration or action. Here's how to provide closure and implications:
 1. Reflect: Reflect on the significance of the topic and the arguments presented in the essay.
Why is it important, and what are the broader implications for society, the field of study, or
the reader?

2. Call to Action: If appropriate, consider ending your essay with a call to action. This could
involve encouraging further research, advocating for a specific policy change, or urging the
reader to reflect on their own beliefs and behaviors.

3. Closure: End your conclusion with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression
on the reader. This could be a thought-provoking question, a memorable quote, or a
powerful statement that reinforces the main message of your essay.

Example:

Let's continue with the example of an essay on the importance of empathy in fostering positive
social change. Here's how you might structure the conclusion:

Summarizing Key Points: In conclusion, we have explored the multifaceted role of empathy in
shaping societies. From promoting inclusivity to reducing conflict and nurturing compassion,
empathy emerges as a powerful force for positive social change.

Restating the Thesis: Ultimately, our examination has underscored the profound impact of empathy
on fostering a more harmonious and equitable world. Empathy is not merely a desirable trait; it is a
fundamental catalyst for building stronger communities and bridging the divides that often separate
us.

Providing Closure and Implications: As we move forward, let us remember the lessons of empathy
and strive to cultivate it in ourselves and others. By fostering understanding and compassion, we can
create a world where everyone's voice is heard and everyone's experiences are valued. Let empathy
guide our actions as we work towards a future of unity and empathy.

In this example, the conclusion effectively summarizes the key points of the essay, restates the
thesis statement with a fresh perspective, and provides closure by reflecting on the broader
implications of the argument presented.