The Five-Paragraph The Five-Paragraph EssayEssay

The Five-Paragraph Essay is The Five-Paragraph Essay is like a cheeseburger.like a cheeseburger.

At the top you need a bunAt the top you need a bun

• This is where you tell the reader what This is where you tell the reader what you’re going to tell him.you’re going to tell him.

• This is your thesis.This is your thesis.• Then you tell him the three major Then you tell him the three major

points you will be makingpoints you will be making

The Five-Paragraph Essay is The Five-Paragraph Essay is like a cheeseburger.like a cheeseburger.

Next you’ll need some lettuceNext you’ll need some lettuce

This is where you give all the specific This is where you give all the specific details about your first point.details about your first point.

The Five-Paragraph Essay is The Five-Paragraph Essay is like a cheeseburger.like a cheeseburger.

Next you’ll need some cheeseNext you’ll need some cheese

This is where you give all the specific This is where you give all the specific details about your second point.details about your second point.

The Five-Paragraph Essay is The Five-Paragraph Essay is like a cheeseburger.like a cheeseburger.

Then, of course, the burger…Then, of course, the burger…

This is where you give all the specific This is where you give all the specific details about your third point.details about your third point.

The Five-Paragraph Essay is The Five-Paragraph Essay is like a cheeseburger.like a cheeseburger.Finally, you’ll need a bottom bunFinally, you’ll need a bottom bun

Where you sum up for the reader Where you sum up for the reader all you just told him.all you just told him.

And now the mustard!And now the mustard!• It holds the It holds the

cheeseburger cheeseburger togethertogether

• It adds some flavorIt adds some flavor—some interest—some interest

• It blends the layersIt blends the layers

In your five-paragraph essay In your five-paragraph essay your transition words are the your transition words are the mustard!mustard!• They hold your They hold your

paragraphs togetherparagraphs together• They add some flavorThey add some flavor

—some interest—some interest• And they blend your And they blend your

points points • Make sure to use them Make sure to use them

to keep your essay to keep your essay together just like your together just like your cheeseburgercheeseburger

Next, an example of a five-paragraph persuasive essay

Located in the South Pacific between the United States and Japan are the Hawaiian Islands, formed from volcanic rock thousands of years ago, Maui, Hawaii is a wonderful place to visit because of the fantastic climate, warm ocean and exciting sites to visit there. Variety is what makes Hawaii so exciting. From mountains to rain forests to beaches and villages. This island is an ideal vacation spot and one you’ll never forget

Paragraph 1: Introduction: The Paragraph 1: Introduction: The Top BunTop Bun

Thesis

Point 1 Point 2Point 3

Paragraph 2: The LettuceParagraph 2: The LettuceTo begin with, the climate is superb. The temperature in Hawaii seldom gets below 85 degrees. The days are clear and sunny, and there is usually little rain. The deep, blue sky has puffy white clouds. You probably think it has to rain sometimes, but when it does rain, it is usually a quick shower. Also, there is very little humidity in Maui. The days are dry and pleasant. Since the sky is so clear, the sunsets are famous in Maui. Scarlets, oranges, and bright yellows reflect on the Pacific Ocean waters as the sun goes down. This is truly a spectacular sight.

Point 1

Answer the opposition

Transition

Paragraph 3: The CheeseParagraph 3: The CheeseAlso, the warm ocean waters provide many activities. You can buy an inexpensive snorkel and mask and go to one of the white sandy beaches or pay a fee and go on a boat for a snorkeling tour. Whatever you decide, you will see millions of colorful fish swimming among the coral reefs underwater. You can rent a sailboat and go sailing, find a beach with giant waves and enjoy surfing, or just go swimming. Some people even go parasailing. You strap into a seat attached to a parachute, and a boat pulls you through the air. The island is beautiful from up there.

Point 2Transition

Paragraph 4: The BurgerParagraph 4: The BurgerFinally, there are many exciting sites to visit on the island. You can visit the little village of Lahaina to buy a special gift for some one back home. You can climb or bicycle to the top of the volcano Haleakala and see the crater. You can also visit lush topical rain forests where the leaves and flowers are as big as dinner plates. Or you can play a round of golf on one of Maui’s famous courses and watch the whales in the water as you putt on the greens. There are so many different things to do.

Point 3Transition

Paragraph 5: Conclusion: The Paragraph 5: Conclusion: The Bottom BunBottom Bun

So pack your bags and get the sun tan lotion and your snorkel. A great climate, a warm ocean, and a myriad of exciting activities will make your vacation one you will never forget. Maui is waiting for you!!!

Conclusion

Call to Action

ALoha

This presentation was created by Linda McHugh for Virtual High School Global Consortium www.goVHS.org