Explanation of the writing process                                                     back to top

Ready to move from the prewriting to the writing?

Now you are ready to begin the writing, and here I believe the process is less like a list than the prewriting. You don't have to do things in a particular order; you can do them as they strike you. Therefore, I will not create a list for this process. Instead, I have created examples of each basic part of the essay and listed the important elements of each part below the example.

For my example, I am comparing myself to Telemachos, so I don't steal any of your ideas for Odysseus.

Example of the introduction   

It seems like in youth, every person goes through a difficult or awkward phase. The process of changing from a kid to an adult is large – how can’t it be difficult? Odysseus’ son Telemachos goes through his awkward period during Homer’s Odyssey. In that period, Telemachos reveals characteristics that are similar to the ones I showed when I grew up. Both of us were young, courageous, and both of us were fighters in our own ways.

(Click here for a student's example)

Explanation of the introduction                                                                                     back to top

1. Make a statement on the theme
2. Transition by introducing the title of the book and the author. Then introduce the character’s name. Don’t forget to mention you – the essay is about you too.
3. Finish it off by telling us what you’re going to say about the character – that is, say your thesis statement

• Begins with an attention-grabber
• Attention grabber can be more than one sentence.
• Focuses attention from attention grabber to thesis (a transition)
• Last sentence of introduction is thesis

• Ideas for attention grabbers:
  • A startling statement
  • A small story (anecdote)
  • A quote
  • A fact
  • An interesting observation
  • A question
• Consider beginning by discussing your theme rather than your specific text
• Make your attention grabber more than one sentence – it takes the pressure off

An example from a fellow 9th grader:

            You’re probably asking yourself, what could an epic hero and an average all-American fifteen year old possibly have in common?  I will admit, I have slain no monsters, I have sailed no uncharted waters, and I haven’t had to protect what rightfully belonged to me.  But Homer’s Odysseus and I do share some of the same characteristics.  We are both faithful, thoughtful, and brave.