Aristotle’s Formula for Essay Writing
Title – centered, capitalize first word and other important words. Times New Roman 12
If typed, double space. If it’s handwritten, do not.
I.
Introduction
Hook – entices the reader. Makes the reader want to read the essay. Do not
begin with a question.
Thesis statement – addresses the prompt for the essay. Tells what the entire
essay is going to prove or to validate. Should be something arguable –
something someone might be able to disagree with.
II.
III.
Background information
Just enough detail about the background that a reader will understand your
essay even if he or she has never read the book.
Body
Each paragraph – contains a topic sentence and evidence from the story to
support your thesis statement. Evidence is always presented as a woven quote –
part of it the essay writer’s original wording, and part of it quoted directly from
the book and cited.
The number of paragraphs may vary, but each part of the prompt must be
addressed.
IV.
Refutation
Addresses the opposing side of the issue and then backs up your thesis again.
V.
Conclusion
Ends your paper on a strong note. Remember – it is your reader’s lasting
impression. A good conclusion relates back to the introduction and thesis. But
a GREAT conclusion ties back to a really strong hook.