1. Hook the Reader:

   • Start with an engaging opening sentence to grab the reader's attention. This could be a thought-provoking question, a startling statistic, or a relevant quote.

2. Provide Background Information:

   • Give a brief overview of the topic to set the context. Explain any necessary background information that the reader needs to understand the argument.

3. State Your Thesis:

   • Clearly present your main argument or position on the issue. This statement should be specific and debatable, setting the stage for your argument.

4. Outline Key Points:

   • Briefly mention the main points you will discuss in your essay to support your thesis. This helps the reader know what to expect.

https://writingcenter.uagc.edu/thesis-generator

OR

https://ozline.com/electraguide/

[7 Sensational Essay Hooks That Grab Readers’ Attention]

https://helpfulprofessor.com/essay-hook-examples/

[essay hooks with examples]

1. Rhetorical Question:

"Have you ever wondered how much a student's clothing can influence their academic performance?"

2. Bold Statement:

"School uniforms are not just a dress code; they are a powerful tool for fostering equality and focus in education."

3. Anecdote:

"Last year, at Lincoln High School, a debate over the dress code erupted after a student was bullied for wearing the latest fashion. This incident sparked a conversation about the role of school uniforms in creating a safe and inclusive environment."

4. Statistic:

"According to a recent study, schools that implement uniforms report a 30% decrease in bullying incidents, highlighting the potential benefits of a standardised dress code."

5. Quote:

"'Clothes don’t make the man,' said Mark Twain, but when it comes to school, could they make a difference in how students perform?"

6. Vivid Scenario:

"Picture a classroom where every student feels equal, free from the pressures of fashion competition, and focused solely on their studies—this could be the reality with school uniforms."

7. Surprising Fact:

"Did you know that nearly 20% of students in the U.S. face bullying related to their clothing choices? This staggering statistic raises important questions about the role of school uniforms."

8. Metaphor or Simile:

"Navigating the halls of high school can feel like a fashion runway, where the pressure to impress can overshadow the pursuit of knowledge. School uniforms may offer a solution to this dilemma."

These hooks can be tailored to fit various writing styles and topics, making them versatile tools for engaging readers right from the start.

1. Restate Your Thesis:

   • Begin by paraphrasing your thesis statement to remind the reader of your main argument.

2. Summarise/ Paraphrase Key Points:

   • Briefly summarise the main points you discussed in your essay, reinforcing how they support your thesis.

3. Call to Action or Final Thought (Leave an IMPACT/ IMPRESSION/ FOOD for THOUGHT):

   • End with a strong closing statement which helps to convince your reader/ the examiner [win him over]. This could be a call to action, encouraging the reader to think critically about the issue, or a thought-provoking remark that leaves a lasting impression.

   • Examples:

     - Give a final thought

     - Ask a thought-provoking question

     - Offer solution(s) if possible (1-2 is sufficient)

     - Paint a future scenario

     - Hope for the future

OR

• Wow - Leave a lasting impression [Last sentence? Final statement? Use emotions to win your reader over.]

• I - Main Idea [Restate your stand with the question in mind/ provide the reader an overview of the main ideas discussed in the BODY of your essay]

• Solutions (Proposed) [How can the issue be resolved? What is going to happen in the future? Where is this heading? New questions/ angle to the question]

• Heart of the matter [What difference does it make to your reader? Why should your reader care? Do NOT simply restate your thesis statement. SHOW the SIGNIFICANCE of the points raised in your essay.]

*** DO NOT INTRODUCE NEW POINTS!

1. Restate Your Thesis:

   • Begin by paraphrasing your thesis statement to remind the reader of your main argument.

   • Example: "In conclusion, the evidence presented underscores the necessity of implementing renewable energy to combat climate change."

2. Summarise Key Points:

   • Briefly summarise the main points you discussed in your essay, reinforcing how they support your thesis.

   • Example: "Throughout the essay, I highlighted the economic benefits of renewable energy, the positive impact on the environment, and the potential for job creation."

3. Call to Action or Final Thought (Leave an IMPACT/ IMPRESSION/ FOOD for THOUGHT):

   • End with a strong closing statement that helps to convince your reader or the examiner. This could be a call to action, encouraging the reader to think critically about the issue, or a thought-provoking remark that leaves a lasting impression.

   • Examples:

     • Give a final thought: "The future of our planet hinges on the choices we make today."

     • Ask a thought-provoking question: "What legacy do we want to leave for the next generation?"

     • Offer solution(s) if possible (1-2 is sufficient): "Transitioning to renewable energy sources is not only feasible but essential for sustainable growth."

     • Paint a future scenario: "Imagine a world where clean energy powers our cities and preserves our planet's beauty."

     • Hope for the future: "Together, we can pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future."

[A-Z of argumentative writing]

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1YhzccSdrogw3TQuhcg1U-LjWD4ArZcbV

[Everything you need to know about argumentative writing]

Does it have Hook? Background Information? Thesis Statement? Outline of Key Points?

Example ONE:

"Imagine walking into a school where every student is dressed in the same attire, promoting unity and reducing distractions. School uniforms have become a contentious issue in education, sparking debates about their effectiveness. This essay argues that implementing school uniforms not only enhances discipline and focus among students but also fosters a sense of belonging and equality."

Example TWO:

"Many schools are using uniforms. Some people think this is a good idea, while others disagree. This essay will talk about school uniforms and their effects on students."

Example THREE:

"School uniforms are stupid. Some kids wear them, and some don’t. This essay is about uniforms and why they might be okay."

Which is your favourite? Least favourite? Why?

Hook the Reader: "In a world dominated by social media, celebrities' lives are constantly under scrutiny, prompting the question: should they be considered role models?"

(This opening sentence engages the reader with a thought-provoking question related to the topic.)

Provide Background Information: "As powerful influencers, they significantly impact the values and behaviors of their fans, particularly youth."

(This sentence provides context on the role of celebrities in society and their influence on young people.)

State Your Thesis: "While celebrities can inspire through their achievements, it is vital to assess whether their personal lives align with the values they promote."

(The thesis statement presents the main argument clearly, indicating a specific and debatable position.)

Outline Key Points: "This essay will examine the responsibilities of fame, the potential negative effects of celebrity behavior on young audiences, and the need for diverse role models beyond the entertainment industry."

(This part outlines the key points that will be discussed, helping the reader know what to expect in the essay.)

Does the above conclusion include:

• restating thesis statement

• summarising main points

• call to action/ final thought

"In conclusion, school uniforms play a crucial role in enhancing students' educational experience. By promoting discipline, reducing peer pressure, and fostering a sense of community, uniforms can create a more conducive learning environment. As schools continue to grapple with issues of equality and focus, adopting a uniform policy could be a step towards a more harmonious educational setting."

Example TWO:

"To sum up, school uniforms can help students in some ways. They make it easier to dress for school and can reduce problems between kids. Schools should think about using them."

Example THREE:

"School uniforms might be okay, but some kids don’t like them. In the end, it’s just clothing. Who cares?"

Which is your favourite? Least favourite? Why?

1a) https://quillbot.com/grammar-check

1b) https://quillbot.com/paraphrasing-tool?referrer=side_navbar

2a) https://www.grammarly.com/grammar-check

2b) https://app.grammarly.com/

3) https://ahelp.com/grammar-checker/ [600 words/ free version]

4) https://www.scribbr.com/grammar-checker/

Any other online tool that you have used and you think it is good to help edit your work?

* However, while they can be helpful (during initial stages, revision, etc), you CANNOT rely on them completely.

* You are the BOSS. Always take the time to read through your own writing/ essay and make your own judgments about what is correct/ accurate. Trust your understanding of language/ grammar rules and ensure that your writing/essay is accurate and effective!

* Finally, at some point, you will have to stop relying on these online tools and take responsibility for your own writing/ work.

* When in doubt, clarify!

• Technology and Social Media

• School

• College, Work and Money

• Health and Relationships

• Gender and Race

• Arts and Entertainment

• Sports

• Parenting and Childhood

• Government and Politics

• Animals, Science and Time

Read the articles on the above topics/themes.

See if you agree with the writer's arguments.

• Social Media and Smartphones

• Technology in Schools and the Future

• Gender Issues

• Sports

• TV, Movies and Video Games

• Music, Literature and Art

• Parenting and Childhood

• Being a Teenager

• School

• School Rules, Discipline and Bullying

• Grading and Testing

• Time in School

• College and Career

• Health and Nutrition

• Animals and Science

• Personal Character and Morality

• Government and Leadership

• Guns, Prisons and the Justice System

• Other Questions (celebrities, environment, online shopping, etc.)

* https://clark.libguides.com/find-opposing-views/procon-websites

* https://research.ppld.org/c.php?g=801111&p=5725203

1. Hook:

   • Does the introduction start with an engaging hook (question, statistic, quote, etc.)?

2. Background Information:

   • Is there sufficient background information provided to give context to the topic?

3. Thesis Statement:

   • Is the thesis statement clear, specific, and debatable?

4. Outline of Key Points:

   • Are the main points that will support the thesis briefly mentioned?

Conclusion Checklist:

1. Restate Thesis:

   • Does the conclusion begin with a paraphrased version of the thesis statement?

2. Summarise Key Points:

   • Are the main points discussed in the essay summarised effectively?

3. Final Thought or Call to Action:

   • Is there a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression or encourages action?

Overall Writing Checklist:

1. Clarity and Cohesion:

   • Is the writing clear and easy to follow?

   • Do the introduction and conclusion connect logically to the body of the essay?

2. Grammar and Mechanics:

   • Are there any grammatical or spelling errors?

   • Is the writing free of awkward phrasing or unclear sentences?