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From Canadian History Portal - HCO

Essay Writing → Start → Outline → Intro → Paragraphs → Template → Proofreading →→ Checklist → → I. Founders Topics → II. Settlers Topics → III. New Nation Topics

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Structuring Your Essay

This page outlines the basic elements that should be found in the different parts of your essay

The Introduction

• Opening Sentence: Explains Who, What, Where and When of your Essay

• Establishing Context: Narrow your essay topic down by referring to more exact events, people, and/or time period. This is done in 2-3 sentences.

• Thesis: State, in one sentence what your thesis is. This is the why of your essay. Your argument is why you are writing it (to prove that you are correct).

• Outline your Points: State that points you will cover to prove your thesis. If stuck for an interesting way to integrate them simply list them bluntly. i.e. “To prove this the following points will be examined: …”

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The Body Paragraphs

Follow this general template for each paragraph after your introduction (except your conclusion).

• Opening Sentence: Every paragraph must have an opening sentence that tells the reader exactly what the paragraph is about. Once you write this sentence do not stray from that topic. If you do should either develop that topic into another paragraph, or determine if your are simply getting off topic.

• Body of the paragraph: This is the content that is structured around your opening sentence. It should
• Relate directly to the topic established in your opening sentence

• Be related to your thesis – at all times your essay is centered on proving your argument

• Develop your paragraph: Do not refer to something unless you intend to discuss it completely. Passing references to important material, events indicates poorly develop essay and analysis.

• Concluding Sentence: Try to tie each paragraph together. Developing these transitions can be difficult, but are a mark of good writing.

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The Conclusion

• Opening Sentence: A statement that is directly related to your thesis and essay topic. Usually a statement about the importance of the event.

• Restate your Thesis: Not in the same words, but restate what the argument of your essay was what your position is regarding this argument.

• Summarize Your Evidence: Restate your evidence in a condensed form.

• Concluding Sentence: End your essay with a bang not a whimper. This is not easy, but try your best.

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Essay Writing → Start → Outline → Intro → Paragraphs → Template → Proofreading →→ Checklist → → I. Founders Topics → II. Settlers Topics → III. New Nation Topics

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