Rooted in the Rubric
A brief recounting of a relevant episode, usually to inject humor or make a point.
What is an anecdote?
This device involves repeating words or phrases for emphasis, as in Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech.
What is repetition?
This literary device compares two unlike things using “like” or “as.”
What is a simile?
This sentence, usually at the end of the introduction, states the central argument of the essay.
What is the thesis statement?
This technique acknowledges opposing viewpoints to strengthen the author’s argument.
What is counterargument (or concession and refutation)?
This device compares two unlike things directly, as in Shakespeare’s “All the world’s a stage.”
What is a metaphor?
Authors often use this device to evoke pity or sympathy from the audience.
What is emotional appeal (pathos)?
This paragraph connects the essay’s body to its conclusion and reinforces the thesis without introducing new information
What is the conclusion?
This structure arranges ideas in ascending order of importance for maximum impact.
What is a climax?
“The bright orange sun sank below the horizon like a fiery coin.”
What is a simile?
This is a figure of speech in which an object, idea, or animal is given human traits.
What is personification?
These sentences in the body paragraphs explain how the evidence supports the thesis.
These sentences in the body paragraphs explain how the evidence supports the thesis.
A strong essay should avoid these, which include generalizations, clichés, and vague language.
What are weak arguments?
The intentional placement of two contrasting ideas or images side by side to highlight their differences.
What is juxtaposition?
In Hamlet, Polonius says, “Though this be madness, yet there is method in’t.”
What is irony?
This device refers to the use of hints or clues to suggest what will happen later in a story.
What is foreshadowing?
This type of essay paragraph introduces the topic, provides context, and sets the stage for the argument.
What is the introduction?
From The Great Gatsby: “This is a valley of ashes—a fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat.”
What is imagery?
This term describes a contradiction between what is expected to happen and what actually occurs.
What is irony?
This technique links one paragraph to the next, ensuring a smooth flow of ideas.
What are transition sentences?