How to write a Text Response | Essay structure | Lisa Tran

Summary

In this video, the presenter provides a detailed guide on how to write a text response essay, using Shakespeare's *Macbeth* as an example. The tutorial covers essential steps such as planning, structuring the introduction, body paragraphs (with the T.E.E.L. method), and crafting a concise conclusion. Key tips include focusing on themes rather than characters, creating strong arguments, and using evidence effectively. The presenter emphasizes the importance of a clear, well-organized approach to writing, providing both guidance and practical examples for students from year 7 to 12. Additionally, they promote their book for further assistance in mastering text responses.

Takeaways

• 😀 Planning is essential for a successful essay. It helps you stay on track and organize your ideas effectively.
• 😀 Identifying keywords in the essay prompt is crucial to understanding the focus of your response.
• 😀 Your contention is your main argument and should be drawn from your opinion on the prompt.
• 😀 Each argument you make should support your overall contention and form the basis for each body paragraph.
• 😀 A simple and clear introduction sets the stage for your essay, outlining your response and key arguments.
• 😀 Body paragraphs should follow the TEEL structure: Topic sentence, Explanation, Example, and Linking sentence.
• 😀 Topic sentences should clearly indicate the focus of each paragraph and stem from your contention.
• 😀 Supporting your argument with quotes or examples strengthens your essay and provides evidence for your claims.
• 😀 Linking sentences help transition between body paragraphs and keep the essay flowing smoothly.
• 😀 Conclusions should be concise, summarizing the main points without introducing new information.
• 😀 For students struggling with planning or structure, additional resources like books and examples can be helpful for improving essay-writing skills.

Q & A

Why is planning essential when writing a text response?

Planning is crucial because it helps you stay on track, ensures that you don't go off-topic, and organizes your thoughts before writing. A well-structured plan sets the foundation for a focused and cohesive essay.

What does the term 'contention' mean in the context of an essay?

Contention refers to your stance or argument in response to the essay prompt. It’s the main point you aim to prove throughout your essay, based on your interpretation of the question.

How do you identify the key words in an essay prompt?

Key words in an essay prompt are the most important terms that directly relate to the question. They help you understand the main focus of the prompt and should be the focal points in your response.

What are the three to five arguments mentioned in the transcript, and why are they important?

The three to five arguments support your contention and become the main points of your body paragraphs. They provide evidence and reasoning to prove your argument throughout the essay.

How should an introduction be structured in a text response?

An introduction should succinctly answer the essay prompt and outline the three main arguments (or more) that will be discussed in the body paragraphs. It serves as a roadmap for the rest of the essay.

What is the TEEL structure, and why is it important?

TEEL stands for Topic Sentence, Explanation, Evidence, and Linking Sentence. It is a structured method for writing body paragraphs that ensures each paragraph is clear, focused, and supports the overall argument of the essay.

How can a topic sentence help a body paragraph?

A topic sentence introduces the main idea of the paragraph. It should clearly indicate what the paragraph will discuss and relate to the overall contention of the essay.

Why is it important to provide evidence in your body paragraphs?

Evidence, such as quotes or examples from the text, supports your arguments and adds credibility to your points. Without evidence, your arguments lack proof and may not be convincing.

What should be included in the conclusion of a text response?

The conclusion should summarize the main points of your essay, specifically the arguments presented in the body paragraphs. It should restate the contention and avoid introducing new ideas.

What are the benefits of keeping a conclusion concise?

A concise conclusion ensures that you summarize your main arguments effectively without repeating information or introducing irrelevant ideas. It reinforces the key points of your essay without losing focus.