Essential Elements of Academic Writing
A. Structure
Introduction
Includes a thought, question, quote, or other literary device to spark interest in the topic for readers
Introduces the essay’s topic/purpose clearly and concisely (called thesis statement)
Communicates the relevance and importance of the topic
Previews the major points to be covered in the body of the paper
How to Write an Essay Introduction by Wikihow.com
Body Paragraph, by About.com
Body
Includes two or more major points which develops the topic of the essay
Uses an organizational structure which is easy for readers to follow in developing the major points (e.g. chronological, logical, or other approach)
Major points are organized in paragraphs. Paragraphs are at least 3 sentences in length
The body of the paper communicates an argument – major points develop and reinforce the thesis statement (i.e. topic and purpose of the essay)
The rule of three for writing effective paragraphs and essays, by WyzAnt.com
The Introductory Paragraph, by About.com
Transitions
Transitional words and sentences connect the various parts of the paper into a unified whole. Transitions are used effectively to guide readers from one section of the paper to the next
Writing transitions by Purdue Online Writing Lab
Transitions by WriteCheck.com
Conclusion
Repeats the thesis statement – topic and purpose of the essay
Reviews major points presented in the essay
Presents concluding thoughts or ideas on the topic
Challenges readers – inspires readers to take a different perspective, change behaviors, or take action based on the information presented on the topic
How to write a conclusion by WriteCheck.com
B. APA Style and Formatting
Includes a separate title page with paper title, student name, department, university, course, faculty name, and due date. An abstract is not required for 100 and 200 level courses
Paper is double-spaced, has 1” margins, and utilizes one of the follow fonts
11-point Calibri
11-point Arial
10-point Lucida Sans Unicode
12-point Times New Roman
11-point Georgia
Identifies sources used with ‘in-text’ citations and includes a ‘References’ page at the end of the paper
C. Avoiding Plagiarism
Avoid Plagiarism with Turnitin Draft Submissions Instructions
6 Ways to Avoid Plagiarism in Research Papers, by WriteCheck.com
What is Plagiarism? by Plagiarism.org