Five Paragraph Essays

Get this structure down, and you’re on your way to your

doctoral thesis!

What is a 5 paragraph essay?

• A “5 paragraph essay” is an English teacher’s name for a paper that contains a(n)

– Introductory Paragraph

– 3 Body Paragraphs

– Conclusion Paragraph

Why do English teachers constantly push this on us?

1. Once you can use the format automatically, you can morph this into any length paper you need . . . five paragraphs to 50 pages.

2. This format is incredibly EFFECTIVE to use in almost all academic writing . . . Social studies, science, etc.

THESIS SENTENCE

• Defined: A thesis sentence is the CENTRAL sentence in the whole “thing.” When well written, it . . .

states the main idea or topic of the paper.

gives an opinion about the topic.

lists all of the sub-topics or supporting ideas.

lays out the order of the paper.

An example thesis sentences

Chocolate is the world’s most perfect food

because it tastes incredible, is very easy

to obtain, and even has some health

benefits.

An example thesis sentences

Chocolate is the world’s most perfect food

because it tastes incredible, is very easy

to obtain, and even has some health

benefits.

Name the big topic

Give an opinion

List sub-topics in order of the paper

An example thesis sentences

Purchasing bottled water is a huge waste

because it is overpriced, causes a

garbage issue, and the water is equivalent

to city tap water

Name the big topic

Give an opinion

List sub-topics in order of the paper

Practice!

• Please add these examples to your Trimester 2 Daily File.

• You will choose 3 from the following list to create complete thesis statements, based on the notes we have gone over.

• Yes, that means that they should include a stance, as well as the three sub-topics.

Pick 3 from the following list

• Best restaurant• Travel location• Value of homework• Value of sports• School rule (good or bad)• Worst movie• Best way to spend a Sat.• Kids and chores