Design and Creative Industries (DM504-4-M-DCI) ASYNC Master Folder

Objective:

Students will learn to identify and distinguish the key components of an essay: the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

Materials Needed:

• Sample essay
• Essay structure worksheet

Activity Steps:

1.      Introduction:

• Begin by explaining the standard structure of an essay: introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
• Describe the purpose of each section:
• Introduction: Presents the topic, provides background information, and states the thesis.
• Body Paragraphs: Develop the thesis with supporting arguments, evidence, and examples.
• Conclusion: Summarizes the main points and restates the thesis in a new light.

2.      Group Discussion:

• Divide students into small groups.
• Provide each group with a copy of the sample essay.

3.      Sample Essay:

Title: The Importance of Renewable Energy

Introduction: In recent years, the urgency of addressing climate change has become increasingly apparent. One of the most effective ways to combat this global issue is by transitioning to renewable energy sources. Renewable energy not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also provides sustainable and inexhaustible power. This essay will discuss the benefits of renewable energy and argue that it is essential for a sustainable future.

Body Paragraph 1: Firstly, renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power are environmentally friendly. Unlike fossil fuels, they do not produce harmful emissions that contribute to air pollution and global warming. For example, solar panels generate electricity without releasing carbon dioxide, making them a clean energy source.

Body Paragraph 2: Secondly, renewable energy is sustainable and inexhaustible. Fossil fuels are finite resources that will eventually run out, leading to potential energy crises. In contrast, renewable energy sources are abundant and can be replenished naturally. Wind and solar energy, for instance, are available as long as the sun shines and the wind blows.

Body Paragraph 3: Lastly, the adoption of renewable energy can create economic opportunities. The renewable energy sector has the potential to generate millions of jobs worldwide, from manufacturing solar panels to constructing wind farms. Investing in renewable energy infrastructure can stimulate economic growth and provide long-term employment.

Conclusion: In conclusion, renewable energy is crucial for combating climate change, ensuring sustainable power, and boosting the economy. By shifting towards renewable energy sources, we can reduce our carbon footprint, preserve natural resources, and create a greener and more prosperous future. It is imperative that governments and individuals prioritize renewable energy to achieve a sustainable and healthy planet.

4.      Highlighting and Annotation:

• Ask each group to read the sample essay and use different colored markers/highlighters to identify:
• Introduction (one color)
• Body Paragraphs (another color)
• Conclusion (a third color)
• On the worksheet, groups should note the purpose of each section and the key elements they identified in the sample essay.

5.      Group Presentations:

• Have each group present their highlighted essay and explain the components they identified.
• Encourage them to discuss why each section is important and how it contributes to the overall structure of the essay.

6.      Class Discussion:

• Facilitate a discussion on the importance of essay structure.
• Ask questions such as:
• Why is it important to have a clear introduction?
• How do body paragraphs support the thesis?
• What is the role of the conclusion in an essay?

7.      Individual Practice (20 minutes):

• Provide students with a new essay topic and ask them to outline their own essay, focusing on the structure (introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion).
• Have them share their outlines with a partner for feedback.

8.      Reflection:

• Have students write a brief reflection on what they learned about essay structure and how it will help them in their future writing assignments.