Page 31 - SpringBoard_Writing_Workshop_Grade8_Flipbook

Writing Workshop 3 (continued)
Drafting the Essay
One way to structure a compare-and-contrast essay is with the block pattern. Using this pattern, a writer discusses one idea or topic completely before moving on to the next idea. The essay might follow this order:
• Introduction with thesis
• Body paragraph 1: Similarities between the topics • Body paragraph 2: Differences between the topics • Conclusion
8. Working with your teacher and classmates, draft the introduction to your expository essay. Be sure to include the following elements:
• Lead, or “hook”: a quote, question, anecdote, or intriguing statement • Context: A connection between the hook/lead and the thesis
• Thesis: The position of the class on the topic
9. With your class, generate an outline for the body paragraphs. Then, draft the body paragraphs on separate paper. Be sure to include the following elements: • Topic sentence: A sentence that states the main idea of the paragraph
• Transitions: Words used to connect ideas (e.g., for example, for instance)
• Evidence: Specific examples, details, and facts
• Commentary: Sentences that explain how the information is relevant to the
topic sentence
10. The conclusion should follow from and support your thesis. Use the following questions to guide your thinking in drafting a conclusion:
• What did you say? (literal)
• What does it mean? (interpretive)
• Why does it matter? (universal)
Check Your Understanding
After you have completed this process, read over the completed expository essay that your class has created. Refer to the Scoring Guide to help determine how well the essay meets the requirements. Next, consider the following:
• Underline the thesis statement in the introduction and the topic sentence of each
body paragraph.
• Does the essay have a clear purpose and audience?
• Circle the transitions. Do transitions connect the ideas being developed?
• How relevant are the examples and details we used for elaboration and support?
• Is the essay’s style appropriate for the audience?
• Does the essay include precise and vivid language?
• Does the conclusion follow from the information in the essay?
6 SpringBoard® Writing Workshop with Grammar Activities Grade 8
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