How to Scaffold an Essay

Essay writing is a skill all students eventually need to know. There are a number of different essay “types,” but all of them require a similar process. Here are a few of the essay types a student might encounter throughout their studies:

• Narrative

• Descriptive

• Expository

• Argumentative

Below we have outlined a few ways to approach an essay assignment from our English tutor experts!

Chunk it out

• Essays are overwhelming! Help them feel more manageable by breaking each step into a mini-lesson

• Remember to take stretch breaks and/or brain breaks

• Use your student's interests when modeling each concept

Don't Skip the Prewriting Activities

• Annotate the prompt- create a clear roadmap of how you will respond

• Create a "parking lot" of compiled evidence- the more evidence, the better!

• Color code your outline

Writing the Essay

• Draft the thesis

• Start with the body paragraphs

• Write an inspiring introduction

• End with a strong conclusion

Writing Resources

• Digital resources:

  • How to Write an Introduction and Conclusion ((with thesis))

  • Introduction and Conclusion Paragraphs Graphic Organizers | Distance Learning

  • Writing Leads Writing Hooks Creative Hook Introduction | Distance Learning

• Physical resources:

  • Mastering The 5-paragraph Essay: Mini-Lessons, Models, and Engaging Activities

  • How To Write Any High School Essay: The Essential Guide

Conclusion

Essay writing is an important skill that every student should learn to master by the time they’re entering college. The approaches outlined above are a great place to start. And of course, the best way to improve essay writing skills is to practice!