Objective
By the end of this lesson, the student will understand the structure of a 5-paragraph essay and will be able to write their own essay on a chosen topic, demonstrating their ability to organize thoughts clearly and effectively.
Materials and Prep
- Pencil and paper or a computer for typing
- A timer (optional, for timed writing exercises)
- A list of potential essay topics (can be created together during the lesson)
- Basic knowledge of essay structure (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion)
Activities
- Brainstorming Session:
Start with a brainstorming session where the student can choose a topic they are passionate about. Use a mind map to jot down ideas related to the topic, focusing on what they want to say and why it matters.
- Outline Creation:
Guide the student in creating an outline for their essay. This should include a thesis statement, main points for each body paragraph, and a conclusion. Discuss how each part connects to the overall argument.
- Timed Writing Challenge:
Set a timer for 30 minutes and have the student write a rough draft of their essay based on the outline. Encourage them to focus on getting their ideas down without worrying about perfection.
- Peer Review (Self-Review):
After writing, have the student read their essay aloud. Encourage them to critique their own work by asking questions like, "Does this make sense?" and "Is my argument clear?"
Talking Points
- "A 5-paragraph essay is like a sandwich: the introduction and conclusion are the bread, and the body paragraphs are the fillings that support your main idea."
- "Your thesis statement is the most important sentence in your essay. It tells the reader what your main point is, so make it strong!"
- "Each body paragraph should have a clear topic sentence. Think of it as a mini-thesis for that paragraph."
- "Don't worry about making your first draft perfect. The goal is to get your ideas out. You can always revise later!"
- "Reading your essay out loud can help you catch mistakes and see if your ideas flow well together."