Characteristics of Informative Essays

Informative Essay Characteristics

• Informative essays aim to share information about a topic, unlike narrative essays (for entertainment) or argumentative essays (to convince).
• The structure typically includes an introduction, body, and conclusion.
• The introduction and conclusion are usually single paragraphs.
• The body section comprises several paragraphs (at least three).

Essay Outline and Structure

• Outlining is crucial for coherent writing, like blueprints in architecture.
• Outlines use Roman numerals (I. Introduction, II. Body, III. Conclusion).
• Subsequent levels use capital letters (A, B, C) and numbers (1, 2, 3).
• Outlines can be sentence-based or simply list topics.
• Consult your teacher for expected outline format.

Introduction

• Introductions start with a hook (engaging opening) to draw the reader in.
• Then, include background information relevant to the topic.
• A concise thesis statement summarizes the essay's focus; typically 1-2 sentences.

Body Paragraphs

• Each body paragraph supports the thesis.
• Start with a topic sentence (main idea).
• Include research (cited or paraphrased).
• Elaborate on the research; explain the evidence in detail.
• Avoid needless repetition of source material.

Conclusion

• Conclusions summarize the essay.
• Often restate the thesis in a different way.
• May include a call to action, encouraging further research/learning.

Writing an Informative Essay

• Topic Selection: Choose a topic for which you can conduct in-depth research; usually should be of interest to the student/writer.
• Research: Form questions to guide research, draw from prior knowledge. Organize research (color-coding, notecards) to correspond with the questions asked.
• Paragraph Organization: Identify topic sentences, then support with researched information, explained in detail.
• Essay Drafting: Start with a draft thesis statement (lead + transition + focus).
• Revision and Editing:
  • Ensure each paragraph supports the thesis statement.
  • Evaluate paragraph order.
  • Proofread for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors (editing).
  • Get feedback from others.

Example Essay Elements

• Introduction Example: Sensory hook; background information about a topic; thesis statement defining the essay's specific focus.
• Body Paragraph Example: Specific topic of celebration; supporting research and details; explanation of significance.
• Conclusion Example: Restated thesis in a fresh manner; call to action for additional exploration.