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The document discusses the importance of introductions and conclusions in essays, highlighting their roles in framing the content and leaving a lasting impression on the reader. It also outlines five essential steps for preparing a good essay: brainstorming, understanding the assignment, conducting research, developing a thesis statement and outline, and writing and revising the draft. By following these steps, writers can enhance their essay quality and avoid common pitfalls.

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chikanyidzeelivine20
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17 views5 pages

comskills

The document discusses the importance of introductions and conclusions in essays, highlighting their roles in framing the content and leaving a lasting impression on the reader. It also outlines five essential steps for preparing a good essay: brainstorming, understanding the assignment, conducting research, developing a thesis statement and outline, and writing and revising the draft. By following these steps, writers can enhance their essay quality and avoid common pitfalls.

Uploaded by

chikanyidzeelivine20
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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MIDLANDS STATE UNIVERSITY ZVISHAVANE CAMPUS

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND GEOSCIENCES


DEPARTMENT: FUELS AND ENERGY ENGINEERING
MODULE NAME: CS 131
NAME: CHIKANYIDZE ELIVINE
REG NUMBER: R248302V
LEVEL: 1.1
LECTURER: Mrs Mpinami
DATE :02 September 2024
a). Examine the functions of an introduction and conclusion.

The introduction and conclusion are crucial elements of an essay, serving as the framework that
holds the entire piece together (Hacker 2013:23). A well-crafted introduction and conclusion can
make a significant difference in the overall impact of the essay.

The introduction functions as the gateway to the essay, grabbing the reader's attention and
providing context (Lunsford 2008:12). It sets the tone and establishes the purpose, thesis
statement, and scope of the essay (Graff & Birkenstein 2010:15).According to Kuhlthau( 2010:
20), an effective introduction should include a hook to draw the reader in, background
information, and a clear thesis statement.

On the other hand, the conclusion serves as the culmination of the essay, summarizing the main
points and reiterating the thesis statement (Hacker 2013:30).Lunsford(2008:25) argues that it
provides final thoughts, implications, and suggestions, leaving the reader with a lasting
impression . A strong conclusion should tie up loose ends, resolve any remaining questions, and
end with a thought-provoking statement or call to action (Graff & Birkenstein 2010: 30).

In conclusion, the introduction and conclusion are vital components of an essay, working
together to create a cohesive and impactful piece of writing.

b) Identify and discuss any five steps that should be taken by a writer when preparing a good
essay

Preparing a good essay requires a series of steps that help writers develop a clear, well-
structured, and coherent piece of writing. Brainstorming, understanding the assignment and
topic, conducting research and gathering information, developing a clear thesis statement and
outline, and writing and revising the first draft are the five essential steps to follow.

Firstly, brainstorming is a crucial step in the essay preparation process.Kuhlthau(2010:12)


denotes that , It involves generating ideas, exploring topics, and considering different
perspectives . Writers should take time to freely associate ideas, ask questions, and create a list
of potential topics or angles. This step helps writers to clarify their thoughts, identify gaps in
their knowledge, and develop a research plan. Furthermore, brainstorming is simply jotting
down what one already know in relation to the topic without chronological order.
Secondly, understanding the assignment and topic is vital. Writers should read and analyze the
assignment prompt carefully, identify the topic, and determine the purpose of the essay
(Lunsford, 2008:25). This step ensures that writers are aware of the requirements and can plan
their essay accordingly.This step helps to identify relevant sources of research quickly.

Thirdly, conducting research and gathering information is necessary. Writers should develop a
research plan, gather credible sources, take notes, and organize information to support the
essay's arguments (Kuhlthau, 2010:30). This step helps writers to develop a deeper
understanding of the topic and gather evidence to support their claims. Lester,J.D.(2007:100-
105) emphasises that, various sources such as academic journals, books and primary sources
should be used to ensure a well rounded understanding of the topic .

Fourthly, developing a clear thesis statement and outline is essential. Writers should craft a
clear, concise, and focused thesis statement and create an outline to organize ideas and
structure the essay (Graff and Birkenstein, 2010:15). This step helps writers to clarify their
argument, organize their ideas, and ensure coherence. Murray,D.M.(2004:65-70) also asserts
that a controlling idea or thesis is important as it unifies the essay and other techniques such as
brainstorming should be used to refine central argument.

Lastly, writing and revising the first draft is a critical step. Hacker(2013:20) suggests that,
writers should write a clear, well-structured, and coherent first draft, revise and edit the draft to
ensure clarity, grammar, and punctuation, and seek feedback from peers or mentors . This step
helps writers to refine their ideas, clarify their writing, and ensure that their essay meets the
requirements.Lunsford(2008:35), stated that editing, proofreading, and finalizing the essay is
essential and a writer should carefully edit and proofread the essay for errors, check for
consistency in formatting, citations, and references, and make final revisions to submit a
polished essay .

In conclusion, preparing a good essay requires careful planning, research, and writing. By
following these five essential steps, writers can ensure a well-prepared and effective essay.
Brainstorming helps to generate ideas and clarify thoughts, understanding the assignment and
topic ensures awareness of requirements, conducting research and gathering information
provides evidence to support arguments, developing a clear thesis statement and outline
organizes ideas and structures the essay, and writing and revising the first draft refines ideas
and clarifies writing. By taking the time to complete these steps, writers can prod

uce a high-quality essay that showcases their knowledge, critical thinking, and writing skills.
Additionally, following these steps can help writers to avoid common pitfalls such as poor
organization, lack of clarity, and insufficient evidence. By incorporating these steps into their
writing process, writers can become more confident, proficient, and effective essay writers.
References:

Graff, G. and Birkenstein, C.2010).They say/I say: The moves that matter in academic writing.
W.W. Norton and Company, New York.

Hacker, D.2013.A writer's reference. Bedford/St. Martin's.Boston

Kuhlthau, C.C.2010. Guided inquiry: Learning in the 21st century. Libraries Unlimited.Santa
Barbara

Lester,J,D.(2007).Writing research papers :a complete guide.Longman.Newyork

Lunsford, A.A.2008 .The everyday writer. Bedford/St. Martin's.Boston

Murray ,D.M.(2004).The craft of revision .Harper Collins. Newyork

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