2. Types of essay –
discursive and persuasive
Discursive - systematically presents arguments in favour
of both sides through specific examples, reasons, and
justifications. After finishing this type of discursive
essay, the informed reader should be able to reach a
concrete conclusion given available information.
Persuasive - to persuade readers and often deals with a
contentious topic or one over which there are conflicting
opinions.
Current affairs issues are a rich source of persuasive
essay topics - whether the monarchy is an outdated
institution and same-sex marriage etc.
3. Essays are important
because…
It deepens your learning of the
subject you are studying
You learn to use ideas to argue a
case
It enables you to enter into a dialogue
with your tutors
You can extend and refine your
thinking and your writing skills
4. PLAN YOUR ESSAY
Introduction – what the topic is and what
it involves. Signpost what you will be
looking at in the essay.
3 paragraphs which deal with points in
favour of the issue.
3 paragraphs which deal with points
against the issue.
A conclusion in which you reflect upon
the issue and detail your own point of
view.
5. STYLE
The style should be formal
No contractions such as
didn‟t, couldn‟t, wouldn‟t, shouldn‟
t
No slang
No use of “I”
Use quite long, complex
sentences
6. STYLE - LINKING
Introducing a contrast
Making connections
However Furthermore
On the other hand Additionally
Alternatively In addition to
Despite this As well as
Having said that Moreover
Although
Therefore
Nevertheless
Likewise
but
also
7. Top essay mistakes!
The student fails to address what is being asked of them
– for example, they are asked to „discuss‟ an issue but
they present a one-sided-argument
The essay is poorly structured, perhaps missing an
introduction or failing to reach a conclusion based on the
evidence presented
The arguments are weak, not supported by
evidence/reason or authority, or are non existent
The materials used are not properly referenced or no
supporting material is cited
The student has included too much background or
description and not enough critical analysis
8. REFERENCING
You must reference any quoted material and
include a bibliography at the end of your
essay.
Use the Harvard System …but more about
that in the next slideshow
I have put some information on the blog for
you under the useful website section
