Note that student work varies significantly from one assignment to the next, even within the
same mark range. The intent of providing samples such as this one is to guide students in
recognizing key criteria of assignments and in assessing their own work.
SAMPLE CONCLUSION – EXCELLENT
Essay question: Examine the causes and effects of prejudicial attitudes and beliefs in the
novel, To Kill a Mockingbird.
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Strengths:
• Your closing is excellent, as the smooth lead-in and pertinent quotation lend
themselves to a greater perspective on the prejudice issue (application).
• Advanced vocabulary (eg. “pervasive”, “absolve’) is used in proper context
(communication).
Tips for Improvement:
• The summary of the arguments could be cut down somewhat, given that they have
already been explained in detail. Aim to give equal portions of the conclusion to
summary and general discussion (application).
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Therefore, prejudice is pervasive in Maycomb in many different forms; it robs its
citizens of the ability to be flexible, responsible and secure without relying on opinions of
others. Attitudes regarding narrowly defined gender roles, particularly those regarding the
role of women, are learned during the formative childhood years and are difficult to
overcome during adulthood, therefore illustrating the importance of teaching children strong
moral values concerning equality. In addition, white supremacist beliefs of most of
Maycomb's white citizens results in the blacks being used as handy scapegoats and menial
servants to the white people, therefore illustrating the readiness of people to conveniently
absolve themselves from responsibility for their actions. Finally, Alexandra Finch's obsession
with social class results in her judging others based on wealth and family background. While
doing this helps her feel superior and socially accepted, Aunt Alexandra also illustrates that
no matter how respected one's family is, deep down inside most people are insecure about the
way they appear to the public. Unfortunately, prejudice, like a robber, steals from people their
most valuable possession – the ability to live a happy and fulfilled life. It is a difficult task for
people to deal with faults of which they are unaware. Indeed, perhaps the only way to combat
prejudice is for parents to instill high moral values and beliefs about equality, fairness,
tolerance and respect at a very young age so that children can ultimately teach their children
that “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view ...
until you climb into his skin and walk around in it” (30).
Work Cited
Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. New York City: Warner Books Inc., 1982. Print.