Organization of the Essay
Classical Rhetorical Arrangement
Introduction: The opening section's function is
to interest or inform the reader. Tip: Use a little known
fact, offer a thesis that contradicts a commonly held view, find a
clearer way to present complex ideas, examine the significant
misunderstandings about your subject, or tell a story.
Exposition: This is the point where you
must define your terms, provide background information, include
historical significance.
Confirmation: This is the core of your
argument. Look over your notes for development of proofs
(cause-effect, analogy, comparison, example, authoritative opinion,
evidence-facts or statistics). Tip: end with the strongest; don't
begin with the weakest argument.
Refutation: This section demonstrates that you
are well-informed and reasonable. The object is to find the truth
by an examination of the merits and demerits of the opposing
viewpoint(s). Tip: If the idea is extremely controversial, place
the refutation earlier in the essay-it will be on the minds of the
audience.
Conclusion: This is the opportunity to provide
a final illustration, metaphor, solution or proposal. Tip: Only in
long essays are you justified in repeating major points; ending
with quotation can weaken your own voice in the argument; avoid "in
conclusion" - your reader can see the empty white space ahead!
NOTE: Each division may contain many
paragraphs. The order of the divisions may be changed for good
reason.