RMES Jr. High 8th Grade Writing Unit

Writing From Outlines

1. For every main topic in your outline, write a topic sentence(TS). Beginning, middle, or end—wherever it fits

best.If you have lots of information about a main

topic, break it into more than one paragraph. Each paragraph should have a TS.

Important Info

Key words can be repeated in several sentences

Pronouns can refer to nouns in previous sentences(Eg. Epilepsy so and so…It such and such)

Transition words can be used to link ideas from different sentences(p. 588 in your grammar book!)

Tips for the Supporting Sentences

Outline III. CausesA. Chemical changes1. Researchers hypothesize

cause could come from chemical changes in the brain.

2. The exact cause is unknownB. Genetic Factors3. The disorder can run in

families4. It can still occur when

there is no family history

Many people would argue that depression is something that is a result of one’s circumstances, but research has shown that genetic factors play a role as well chemical changes that occur in the brain. Scientists don't know exactly what causes the imbalance in the brain that triggers depression and the cause is unclear because depression can run in families. As we saw in the case with Sally, depression has been something that has been in her family for years. However, depression can still occur when there is no family history. Medication, nonetheless, can be of help.

Example: Depression

Paragraph

Write your essay, following the outline you have created.

For each section, make sure you have a Topic Sentence.

Give examples, quotes, numbers, refer back to the person in the story if you used it in your intro, ect.

Transitional words help! Look in p. 588 on your Grammar book.

Toward the end provide a transitional sentence(or linking sentence) that will link this part of the essay with the next.

Instructions

Though creativity and artfulness are not always associated with essay writing, it is an art form nonetheless. Try not to get stuck on the formulaic nature of expository writing at the expense of writing something interesting. Remember, though you may not be crafting the next great novel, you are attempting to leave a lasting impression on the people evaluating your essay.

A Bit of Creativity!