Elements of an Essay

Front

What is the main idea of an essay?

Back

The thesis statement states the main idea of the entire essay.

Front

What follows the topic sentence in a body paragraph?

Back

Concrete detail (evidence) appears after the topic sentence in a body paragraph.

Front

What is the purpose of the conclusion in an essay?

Back

The conclusion wraps up the author's arguments and main points.

Front

What is the last paragraph of an essay called?

Back

The last paragraph in an essay is called the conclusion.

Front

What ties up the ideas in the body paragraph?

Back

The concluding sentence ties up the ideas in the body paragraph.

Front

What is the function of a topic sentence?

Back

The topic sentence introduces the main idea of a paragraph.

Front

What is the role of commentary in an essay?

Back

Commentary provides opinion or analysis related to the evidence presented.

Front

What is included in the introduction of an essay?

Back

The introduction includes the thesis statement and sets the context for the essay.

Front

What is the difference between a thesis statement and a topic sentence?

Back

A thesis statement presents the main idea of the entire essay, while a topic sentence presents the main idea of a specific paragraph.

Front

What is the purpose of body paragraphs in an essay?

Back

Body paragraphs develop the main idea by providing evidence and analysis.