THE CONCLUSION

“Social Time”, page 81

What does the writer do in the conclusion?

1.Look to the future2.“Bookend”: connect back to the hook3.Does the writer start the conclusion

with “In conclusion…” or “To sum up…” or “To conclude…”?

NO!

“We Should Cherish Our Children’s freedom to Think”, pages 113-114

What does the writer do in the conclusion?

1. Implications to the larger worldClassroom Creativity=Freedom

2.Does the writer start the conclusion with “In conclusion…” or “To sum up…” or “To conclude…”?

NO!

“Grades and Self-Esteem”, page 120

What does the writer do in the conclusion?

1.Look to the future

2.Does the writer start the conclusion with “In conclusion…” or “To sum up…” or “To conclude…”?

NO!

“The Commencement Speech You’ll Never Hear”, page 126

What does the writer do in the conclusion?

1.Give advice

1.Does the writer start the conclusion with “In conclusion…” or “To sum up…” or “To conclude…”?

NO!

4 Types of Conclusions

1. Bookend Connect back to the hook

2. Implications in the larger world Describe how your thesis is important in the real world

3. Look to the future Describe how your thesis will be important in the future

4. Give advice Give advice to the reader based on your thesis

Conclusion Signal Words

1. Are conclusion signal words necessary? (“In conclusion…” “To conclude…” “To sum up…”)

Not always. In fact, more advanced writers tend to avoid them. Using conclusion signal words is a technique taught to and used by beginning writers.

2. Are conclusion signal words bad?Not always. If used judiciously,

conclusion signal words can be appropriate. However, as advanced writers, you should try more sophisticated ways to conclude your essays.