Writing an Essay for Assessment
Some tests ask you to write an essay response to articles you have closely read. The following activity will help you practice.
Analyze an essay prompt.
Read the following prompt, answer the PAST questions, write a focus statement, and list details.
- Read the writing prompt.
- Answer the PAST questions.
- Write a focus statement.
- List supporting details.
Imagine that your teacher has assigned you to write an explanatory essay about the lives of monarch butterflies. You will be using the sources in this unit. Focus your thinking about monarch butterflies and create an essay. Include details from the sources to support your ideas.
Purpose?
Audience?
Subject?
Type?
Write an essay response.
Create an explanatory essay about monarch butterflies. Include a beginning paragraph that leads to your focus statement. Include middle paragraphs that support the focus with specific details. Finally, add an ending paragraph that wraps it all up. Use details from the sources, giving credit with the title and author’s name.
Revise and edit your essay.
Read your essay and ask yourself the following questions. Correct any problems you find.
- Is my essay on target with the prompt and the PAST questions?
- Do I have a clear focus statement and topic sentences?
- Do I support them with a variety of details?
- Are my beginning, middle, and ending paragraphs effective?
- Have I checked spelling?
- Are all of my sentences complete (no fragments or run-ons?)