Dr. JH Gillis Regional High School
GRADE 10 DEFINING MOMENT ESSAY
Rationale
The purpose of the essay is to write a five paragraph analytical and argumentative essay based on your thesis.
It is important that you demonstrate your understanding of a defining moment in Canadian history.
OPTION: Students can create a song/skit or make a heritage minute in place of the essay.
https://www.historica-dominion.ca/content/heritage-minutes/agnes-macphail
Notes on the Format of the Essay
Your research paper is to be written in a formal, academic style. The third person narrative is the only
acceptable style. Of course, your essay must be written in proper English. Spelling, grammar, punctuation,
sentence structure, language and paragraphing errors will be strongly censured.
Your essay must be written in your own words. Information must not be simply 'lifted' or copied from your
sources. Summarize and paraphrase the ideas and identify the sources even if you have modified the wording.
Give the sources of quotations.
PLEASE BE FOREWARNED THAT PLAGIARISM (COPYING DIRECTLY FROM A SOURCE)
WILL RESULT IN A MARK OF ZERO
CHECKLIST
 Essay will be approximately 750 words in length (maximum 4 pages)
Essay must be typewritten, using standard-sized paper, 12 point font, Times New Roman, double-spaced,
with 2.5 cm border top, bottom and sides, with numbered pages (footers)
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Essay must have a cover page with ONLY the following: title of essay; student name; teacher’s name;
date (no images or pictures!!!)
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Essay must have a minimum of THREE footnotes (1+ per argument)
Essay must have a finalized bibliography on a separate page (with all sources used from steps 1-5) in
proper MLA format / sources listed in alpha order by author’s last name
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Essay Step 5 (final copy) WILL NOT be accepted without the process steps 1-4
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Essay Step 5 will be submitted online (one file with title page, essay, bibliography, rubric)
Steps:
1. STEP 1: Topic selection sheet and bibliography
(Knowledge - 10 marks)
2. STEP 2: Note-making and research and bibliography
(Application - 10 marks)
3. STEP 3: Thesis formation; Bibliography
(Thinking - 10 marks)
4. STEP 4: Essay outline
(Thinking – 20 marks)
6. STEP 5: Final essay (title page, essay, footnotes, bibliography) (Communication - 30 marks)
TOTAL = 80 marks