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From the worksheet, I had learnt that in order to organize and write an essay, we need to have good analysis and evaluation of content and presentation. We can learn the skills of analysis of text, skills in the organization of an essay and sample essays and commentary. Firstly is the skills of analysis of the text. There are four levels of analytical skill that we should attempt to display in my writing that is, a clear awareness of the text’s meaning, a logical interpretation of the text, a detailed analysis and evaluation of the text, and an insightful response to the text. After reading the text through once, we can immediately jot down our impression of the text’s meaning. This is because most of the question in the Unseen will relate to our understanding of the meaning of the text, the mood of the text and the issues highlighted by the text. Next, we need to interpret the text. One of the strategies which I don’t understand is the “Why X and not Y” formula. As we read the text, highlight any interesting words in it and then ask yourself why the writer chose that word instead of another so that will be more aware and sensitive to the skills involved in crafting a poem or pierce of prose. Then, we need to provide detailed analysis of the text, which are the techniques used by the writer to achieve an effect and the ability to track patterns and development of character or mood in the text. As we read the text, pick out various devices used by the writer and state what the purpose of the technique is and how it affects the reader. We should also try to pick out trends or changes in language, tone and mood. Secondly, is the skill in the organization of an essay. An essay consists of the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. We must always start our essay with a statement which immediately answers the question and which states our standpoint. An organized introduction consists of a clear assertion which forms the basis of your essay, an overall view of the point or issue and a summary of the key points which serve as evidence in support of your view. The body includes point, evidence and elaboration. Begin the first sentence of the paragraph with a point that answers the question. Every major point we make should be supported by evidence from the text such as direct quote from the text and paraphrase of the text. Quotes used should add value to the point made and not merely repeat the point. Besides making a point and providing evidence to support it, we will need to elaborate on your point. You need to explain how your evidence links to and proves the point you have made. When we elaborate, you should always aim to provide logical and clear reasons for your points. We should at least give a response as part of the conclusion to our essay. To make the conclusion, we can reiterate the major claim or argument of your essay, summarize the key points you had made in your essay, and provide a philosophical insight and summative response to the issues raised in the text. After reading the notes, I think that I had a better understanding on how to organize an essay.
