Not only will students review the five-paragraph model of an essay, but they will place special emphasis on the art of research and the proper use of quoted material in the forms of direct quotes, paraphrasing, and summarizing. This essay, which will be about an invention of the student's choice, will require cited information from at least three sources. 

Class 1: Come to class prepared with an invention. This can be something large and well-known (the printing press, Paypal) or a lesser-known or smaller invention (the toothbrush!). We will discuss forms of research, how to take and use notes, how to cite sources, and how a research essay should present analysis, interpretation, and possibly an argument. Furthermore, we will review the structure of a five-paragraph essay. For homework, students should complete the three body paragraphs. The instructor will provide a list of possible sources, but students are welcome to use their own as well (but not Wikipedia!). Additionally, students will receive helpful materials, such as a graphic organizer and sample paragraphs. 

Class 2: Bring those body paragraphs to class so we can edit them for organization, structure, content, grammar, and writing style. Then, we will focus on adding an introduction with a three-pronged thesis and a conclusion with a restated and elevated thesis. 

Students will work with the instructor at each step. They can submit their body paragraphs for feedback and, following the final class, they should plan to submit their completed essays for an evaluation that includes feedback on their structure, content, grammar, and writing style.