Essay Writing

In pairs, have learners discuss the last time they had to write something important. What made it difficult? Share with the class.

Together brainstorm the qualities of a strong essay (clear structure, main idea, evidence etc) Share the responses and make a list on the board.

Briefly explain the essay as a structured form of writing used to express ideas clearly and persuasively.
Introduce the 5-paragraph essay structure as a foundation:

1. Introduction with thesis
2. Body Paragraph 1
3. Body Paragraph 2
4. Body Paragraph 3
5. Conclusion

In pairs, create a diagram showing how each paragraph connects to the next. Share with the class. (Scaffolding Strategy)

Step-by-Step Modeling of the Essay Writing Process (see Documents for Scaffolds/Graphic Organizers)

Scribbr has an excellent series of videos. Begin with How to Write an Essay: 4 Minute Step-by-step Guide (4:20)

Step 1: Understand the Prompt
Display a sample prompt.
Break down what it's asking (topic, task, audience, purpose). 

Step 2: Brainstorm Ideas
Use a graphic organizer (e.g., mind map or listing).
Model: Think aloud while brainstorming a topic.

Step 3: Outline the Essay
Use a fill-in-the-blank outline template.
Model how to write topic sentences and plan supporting details. Scribbr video:  How to Create a Clearly Structured Essay Outline (3:55)

Step 4: Create a Thesis Statement
Define what a thesis is and what makes it strong.
Show examples of weak vs. strong thesis statements. Scribbr video: How to Write a STRONG Thesis Statement (4:11)

Step 5: Draft the Essay
Explain the drafting process: focus on getting ideas down, not perfection.
Scaffolding Strategy: Provide scaffolds in the Documents.

Scribbr videos: How to Write an Eye-Catching Essay Introduction (4:33), How to Write Strong Essay Body Paragraphs (4:28), How to Write a Topic Sentence (2:10), How to Use Transition Words and Sentences in Essays (3:43), How to Write a Strong Essay Conclusion 3:51

As pairs have learners break down the example prompt to understand the different elements: topic, task, audience, and purpose.

Prompt Breakdown Activity

Think about how technology has changed the way people communicate in the past 10 to 20 years. Write an essay explaining how these changes have affected your daily life, relationships, or work. Use specific examples from your own experience or observations.

Topic: How communication has changed because of technology

Task: Explain how these changes affect daily life, work, or relationships, use personal examples

Audience: Peers, instructor or community

Purpose: To inform and and reflect: help the reader understand your personal experience and how technology has influenced communication

Share the breakdown with the class.

As pairs, write a second prompt on the theme of technology. Share it with the class.

Depending on the experience of learners you can present each step and let them practice in pairs.

Learners work through each step with support:

1. Choose a prompt (or use a shared one).
2. Complete the Document: Brainstorming Sheet
3. Draft a thesis with a partner and get peer feedback using the Document: Feedback Notes Template.
4. Fill out the Document: Outline Template.
5. Begin writing the introduction and first body paragraph using Documents Sentence Starters, Paragraph Frames.

Interactive Activities:

• Peer feedback carousel: Learners rotate and give feedback on thesis statements.
• Collaborative outlining: In small groups, build an outline for the same topic. Use Document Essay Structure.

Self-Assessment and Peer Review

• Learners evaluate the parts of their introduction and first body paragraph.
• In pairs, learners exchange drafts and give one compliment and one suggestion.

Checklist can include:

• Clear thesis?
• Topic sentence?
• Supporting details?
• Transitions?

Write a 5-paragraph essay on a prompt of choice or assigned.

Depending on the group levels, use peer writing/review or independent writing. The writing is done in class. Use Google Docs so you can check the History to help prevent use of AI in the writing. Submit.

Reflection: What was easiest about this essay? What was most challenging? What was helpful in the process? How can the process be improved?