PORTFOLIO TASK 1
Choose a topic from the list below. Complete a Process Essay Outline using the format shown.
Write an Introduction paragraph starting with a ‘hook’ to attract the reader’s attention, a minimum
of 2 additional introductory sentences and finish with the thesis statement.
See the examples below.
Deadline: 1200 Tuesday 17 October 2017
Portfolio Grades: Outline 10 points Introduction 15 points
Process Essay Topics
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how to deliver an effective presentation
how to achieve academic success at university
how to complete academic research
how to run your own business
Process Essay Outline
I.
Thesis:
II.
Steps in the process
A
Explanation/Examples: __________________________________________
B.
Explanation/Examples: __________________________________________
C.
Explanation / Examples: __________________________________________
III. Conclusion
Paraphrase thesis statement ______________________________________
EXAMPLE
TOPIC: How to write an effective process essay.
I.
Thesis: There are four stages that need to be completed in order to write an effective process
essay; research the topic, write an outline, write a first draft, revise and complete a second
(final) draft.
II.
Steps in the process
A.
Research the topic
Explanation/Examples: Use a variety of sources. Make and organise notes.
B.
Complete an essay outline
Explanation/Examples: Write a thesis statement, list the steps in the process including explanations
and/or examples, and paraphrase the thesis statement.
C.
Write a first draft
Explanation/Examples: Complete the introduction starting with a ‘hook’ and ending with the thesis
statement. Write a topic sentence for the first body paragraph and a further 4/5 supporting
sentences. Repeat for all body paragraphs. Summarise the main points of the essay in the
concluding paragraph and include the paraphrased thesis statement. Spell and grammar check
(ensure the proofing language is set to English). Submit essay to lecturer prior to the deadline.
D.
Write a final draft
Explanation/Examples: Incorporate changes made by lecturer and resubmit prior to the deadline.
III. Conclusion
A Paraphrase thesis statement This essay has described in detail the essential four steps
(research, outline, first and final drafts) required to write a successful process essay.
INTRODUCTION
Winston Churchill said “Plans are of little importance, but planning is essential” and this is equally
true in essay writing as it is in politics, business or war. A process essay either describes a process or
provides instructions for how to do something. In other words, it is a step-by-step explanation of
how something works, or how to perform a task. As such, it is vital to plan carefully so the stages are
presented in a logical sequence. There are four stages that need to be completed in order to write
an effective process essay; research the topic, write an outline, write a first draft, revise and
complete a second (final) draft.