Key Essay Writing Terminology
Hook: The first sentence of the essay should capture the reader's attention. The writer make a surprise statement, ask a challenging question, or quote a famous person.
Functional Introduction: Discuss each of the main ideas presented in the essay to share the big picture and background of the topic of the essay.
Funnel Technique: Imagine the shape of a funnel, which is broad at the top and smaller at the bottom. Use this image to introduce the broad topic of the essay and continue to narrow the topic as you lead into your thesis statement.
Thesis Statement: Topic + Position + 3 ideas (or causes, effects, arguments, perspectives)
Paraphrasing: Use your own words (not the words copied from the source) to present an idea or concept.
Direct Quotation: Use quotation marks before and after the words taken directly from the source.
Counterargument and Refutation: This represents the sixth paragraph in an argumentative essay. The writer identifies the counterargument, that is the argument made by people who do not agree with the writer's point of view. Immediately following the identified counterargument, the writer will "refute" (give a refutation) or argue against the opposing viewpoint.