How to Structure an Essay (using "The 3 Ied Monster")

Introduction

Includes: Title, author, time period/date

Hook or funnel

1-2 sentences summary MAX

Lead up to THESIS STATEMENT (states the argument of the essay) – usually last sentence of introduction

Main body paragraph (repeat as necessary)

IDENTIFICATION = TOPIC SENTENCE. The topic sentence supports the thesis statement and states the argument of the paragraph.

ILLUSTRATION = QUOTE (or paraphrase)

INTERPRETATION = explanation of how the quote supports the topic sentence.

Repeat ILLUST and INTERP as many times as necessary

Another main body paragraph…

And maybe another main body paragraph…

And maybe another…

Conclusion

Recap the argument

Reflect on its significance

Point toward possible new avenues of analysis