2. What is an academic essay?
An academic essay aims to persuade readers of an idea
based on evidence.
An academic essay…
answers a question
has a thesis statement (answer to the question) and
an argument.
develops a thesis (argument) via a set of closely
related points by reasoning and evidence.
includes relevant examples, supporting evidence
and information from academic texts and/or
credible sources
3. Thesis Statement
is that sentence or two in the text that contains
the focus of the essay
it tells your reader the topic of the essay – what
it is going to be about.
It makes a claim that others might support or
dispute.
4. Components of an Argument
Any argument requires at least two opposing views. The writer
usually supports one of the views.
An acceptable argument has position statements:
• Some form of evidence to support or refute a claim (e.g.
statistics; findings or theoretical points, observable
phenomena, etc.);
• An explanation of the relationship between issues
• A description of the significance of the material presented.
5. How an argument is built
Contains a statement only
Since 1994, the South African Government has been
proactive in various policy developments with regard to
housing.
Contains a referenced (supported) statement to indicate the
authenticity of the information
Since 1994, the South African Government has been
proactive in various policy developments with regard to
housing (see Brown, 1998; Jacobs; 1999).
6. Identifying the Viewpoint
Common belief Makes you think everyone believes
it or does something
Expert opinion or
testimonial
Quotes or cites someone who is an
expert in the field
Affective statements Appeals to emotions related to
core beliefs and values
Personal knowledge or
experience
Author explains how s/he came to
hold this perspective or opinion
7. How is it done….
Writers slip their personal opinions into a piece of writing, even
when it is suppose to be a "factual" account (supported with
evidence, facts; other experts/authorities agree)
0 What Dunbar (1996) is saying, in effect, is that gossip was a
tool for indirect reciprocity.
Opinions are often expressed as comparisons (more, strongest,
less, most, least efficient, but):
0 The painter Pablo Picasso was far more innovative than any
of his contemporaries.
Opinions are often expressed by adjectives (brilliant, vindictive,
fair, trustworthy):
0 Ronald Reagan was a convincing speaker when he read a
prepared address but was not effective at press
conferences.
8. How is it done….
Opinions often involve evaluations:
0 The excellence of her science project was a model for other
students.
Opinions are often introduced by verbs, adverbs, and the
passive voice that suggest some doubt in the writer's mind:
0 It appears she was confused.
0 She seems to have the qualifications for the position.
0 During the campaign, dirty tricks were probably used to
win.
