This document provides instructions for writing a five paragraph essay. It explains the basic structure, which includes an introduction with a thesis statement, three body paragraphs that each address a different point from the thesis, and a conclusion. The introduction should grab the reader's attention and outline what will be discussed. Each body paragraph needs a topic sentence and at least three supporting sentences. The conclusion restates the thesis and summarizes the main arguments.

1. How to Write a Five
Paragraph Essay

2. The Basic 5 Paragraph Essay
Introduction
Body Paragraph One
Body Paragraph Two
Body Paragraph Three
Conclusion

3. Introduction
 This is where your reader learns what the essay is
about. It should be clear from the introduction what
you are going to teach them!
 Paragraph should have at least three sentences
addressing this general topic.
 If the main topic is the unprecedented appeal of the Harry
Potter books, you could begin with several general remarks
about the fantasy genre.

4. Introduction (Cont.)
 Start with an interesting statement that will grab the
reader’s attention.
 Avoid a boring line like -- In this essay I will explain why the
Harry Potter series is so popular.
 A more interesting sentence would be – Have you ever wanted
to visit a place where people can fly, animals can talk, and
dragons are a common sight? That world exists—in books.

5. Thesis Statement
 Introduces the specific focus of the essay.
 Should contain the names of the text and the
author, as well as each point that will be proven in
the paper.
 It is the last sentence of the introductory
paragraph.
 The Harry Potter books by J. K. Rowling use magic,
likeable characters and the universal struggle between
good and evil to successfully appeal to adolescents
disinterested in reading.

6. The three body paragraphs will focus on
the three topics introduced in the thesis.
The Harry Potter books by J. K.
Rowling use magic, likeable char-acters
and the universal struggle
between good and evil to
successfully appeal to adolescents
disinterested in reading.
Magic Likeable Characters Universal Struggle
Between Good and Evil

7. Body Paragraphs
 Opens with a topic sentence which states the point you are
making in the paragraph, as well as the evidence you will
present in support of your argument.
 Paragraph should have at least three supporting sentences
in addition to the topic and concluding sentences.
 The magic used in the Harry Potter books creates a whimsical
atmosphere that sets the stage for fantastic adventures for Harry
and his friends. One such adventure is …

8. Body Paragraphs (Cont.)
Each of these sentences must connect
back to the point of the topic sentence, as
well as enhance it.
Do not let the supporting sentences veer off
into new directions. Make sure each
sentence either explains or supports the
topic.

9. Conclusion
 Recaps the entire essay.
 Restates the thesis.
 Briefly recounts the arguments made in the body
paragraphs.
 May introduce related conclusion reached by the
arguments made in the paper.
 If authors targeting the adolescent market would spend a
little more time on character development, they could
duplicate J. K. Rowling’s success.

10. Tips to Remember
Each sentence should have a purpose. Try
not to ramble.
Make sure that the great topic that wows
you during a brainstorming session is
actually in line with the assignment.
Don’t be afraid to consult a thesaurus—too
much repetition of a word can strike a sour
note in your paper.

11. Credit/Sources
http://www.bookrags.com/articles/4.html
www.dukecityfix.com/magick.php/media/18/
20050
http://www.freefever.com/freeclipart/clipart/
dragon.gif
www.clas.ufl.edu/users/rthompso/harry.jpg