Writer's Toolbox

Tip 1: Write an Oultine for Every Writing

Outline is a really good way to organize your thought. Usually spend one or two days to build an outline for an essay that has a longer due date. If it is an in-class writing, skip this tip and jump right into tip 2.

Tip 2: Writing Thesis Statements and Topic Sentences (Especially for In-class Writing)

Writing thesis statements and topic sentences are the most helpful way to organize your thoughts in In-class Writing. Since the time is little,  it is hard to think very thoroughly ( at least I cannot :( ). So I think it is better to have a relatively poor idea but clear organization than a really good idea but with poor organization that teachers cannot understand you very well. List out the themes as well. 

Tip 3: Finding synonyms for "show"

The word "show" is frequently used in analysis sentences in essays. However, teachers usually get tired of students using "show", "illustrate" and "demonstrate", etc. However, it is really helpful to search the synonyms of "show" online to find more fancy words. At least you won't get points off or leave a bad impression for your teachers.

Here is the list of Strong Analytical Verbs I got from Mrs. Fletcher.

Tip 4: Replacing "it"

After a quote, usually it is time for pointing out the significance of the quote and connect it to the themes. Sometimes, I would start the sentence with "it shows" which is not very clear. The better way is to replace the "it" with a specific phrase like "the expression", "the tone of the speaker‘’. 

Tip 5: Lenses for Argumentative Research Essay

For argumentative essays, it is really helpful if you figure out which perspectives (aka lenses) you are gonna talk from. So the document My. Hayes gives is very helpful for argumentative essays.

Other Helpful Resources for Writing ( Thanks to Mrs. Fletcher and Mr. Hayes to share these documents in English 9 and 10)

Integrating Quotes

Guidelines to Introduction Paragraph

Conclusion Paragraph Guidelines

Rules for Quoting Shakespeare

Thesis Statement Guidelines