An outline provides the blueprint for an essay.
Writing an essay provides eighth-graders with the opportunity to polish their research skills and get a taste of writing on a high school level. Eighth grade is a transitional year for middle school students, which means more homework and advanced assignments. Good eighth-grade essays should be clear and familiar in topic and teach the teacher something new. Presenting an eighth-grade essay should also teach students something new and further engage their interest.
Instructions
1. Select a topic for the eight-grade essay if a subject has not been assigned. Topics such as history, science and world cultures have an array of resources and reading material available to help students obtain information.
2. Research the topic information before writing the essay. Check out books from a school or local library and visit websites on the topic. Local museums are also a great resource when searching for information on topics such as history. Students may also find that older community members who have lived through historic events are a great resource.
3. Write all research information down in a notebook when reading or listening to others. Review the notes and highlight the important information that will give the eighth-grade essay credibility. Create an outline of the research information on a separate sheet of paper.
4. Type the essay in a word processing program such as Microsoft Word, using the outline and notes written as a reference. Begin with an introduction in the first paragraph of the essay, explaining what the reader will learn. Then write the body of the essay explaining the topic, with each paragraph detailing a main idea. End the essay with a one paragraph conclusion that highlights the important points.
5. Cite references for books and websites that were used during the research process on the bottom of the last page or on a separate sheet. Include images, if permitted, on the topic. Images add a visual element to the essay, allowing the reader to get a better idea of a person or region that the eighth grade essay was written on.
6. Proofread your essay carefully before submitting it. Run a spell check program if available and look up any words you are not sure about.
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