Essay 4 Draft
850 – 1,000 words
This is the second step for writing Essay 4 – Current Events and News Media Analysis. Remember to read the prompt thoroughly and use MLA format.
Requirements:
850 – 1,000 words in length. Remember: these drafts will be workshopped by at least two of your peers, so keep that in mind while writing
MLA format
At the bottom of your draft write at least 2 questions you have about your writing. Examples: Do I have clear topic sentences indicating to my reader what the paragraph is about? Does my working thesis have a clear claim? Or any other questions or feedback you would like on any aspect of your writing. These questions will be for peer reviews after you submit to Canvas
Use direct quotes from your researched source. Avoid using more than 3 lines of direct quotes, unless absolutely necessary.
Works Cited (not included in word count)
Format:
Introduction identifying the topic or event, giving relevant background and context
Thesis: state your argument in 1-2 sentences at the end of your introduction
Body paragraphs: have clear topic sentences that being with your words, then include information from your sources. Include data and information from at least two of your sources.
Conclusion: bring your reader home be restating the thesis (not word for word). Look at the writing resources available on Canvas
Works Cited: begin putting together your Works Cited page now! This will save you time trying to rush through it later.
Remember, the thesis is the central argument of your essay. For this assignment, you are discussing how this topic or event is being represented in the media, not just whether you agree or disagree with the topic.
Tips and Suggestions for a Successful Essay:
Strong writers are specific writers! Be specific in your writing and think of clarity.
Use the Purdue OWL link for proper MLA format
Leave yourself time for editing and revision!
For the working thesis: this is your overall argument for the paper based on your analysis of the assigned texts. Clearly indicate your position in response to the topic.
Reference the PIE paragraph structure. The P is the point, or topic sentences, then you give an illustration of the point, or a specific example. The body paragraphs function to support your thesis, so be sure to use direct quotes and examples.
Avoid using lengthy quotes! You should only use 1-2 direct quotes per paragraph and the majority of the paragraph should be your voice. Try not to use more than 3 lines of direct quotes.
