Essay Elements

INTRO

• Hook--the piece most likely to connect with audience

• Bridge

• (Hook and bridge together offer some context for the primary claim--why it should matter to the reader)

• Thesis Statement or Primary Claim: the final sentence in the introduction

BODY

Evidence--include at least one piece of evidence per paragraph

Sequenced in a logical way to support the argument

Counter-claim--with concessions and refutations--this can come before, with, and/or after evidence

CONCLUSION

Conclusion that synthesizes and makes that final clinching connection