Register
Name three features of academic register that should replace informal language in essays.
precise vocabulary, no contractions, no slang, no first-person or second-person perspective.
What element of an introduction "sets the scene" for the essay and briefly explains why the issue matters right now?
MTC (Hook can also earn points)
In PEEL, what does the first letter P stand for?
Point
Should discursive essays have a counterclaim?
No, the essay is already considering both sides of the issue. Because it isn't argumentative, there is no need to shut down opposing arguments.
Name one thing a strong conclusion should do beyond simply restating points.
Offer new insights!
Convert the informal word "kids" to its academic equivalent.
Adolescents
Give two components you must include BEFORE your thesis in the intro
MTC, define key terms, set limits/scope
For the Evidence part of PEEL, what type of example should students prefer when supporting an academic claim?
Specific, discipline-appropriate, real-world examples or data (e.g., studies, historical or current events, well-known practices).
Where in a 4-paragraph essay should you place the counterclaim?
At the end of your last body paragraph after using PEEL.
Provide an alternative transition phrase from the slides to use instead of "In conclusion."
Alternatives include "A closer look reveals," "After considering the evidence," "It appears that..."
Given the informal sentence "I'm gonna explain why exercise is good," rewrite it in academic register (one sentence).
"This paper will explain why regular physical activity benefits health" or "Regular exercise has demonstrable benefits for physical and mental health."
What is the purpose of a thesis statement?
To state a clear claim that organizes and focuses the essay and signals the main supporting reasons.
What should the longest part of your body paragraphs be?
Elaboration
In the ABCs of point-counterpoint, what does "A" (Acknowledge) ask you to do first?
Summarize or concede the opposing argument using a transition (e.g., "Some supporters think that...").
PICK A SIDE
Explain why using first-person phrases like "I think" is discouraged in academic register for AICE General Paper.
It undermines an objective tone and can make arguments seem subjective rather than evidence-based; AICE expects formal, third-person, objective style.
What five steps (in order) should you consider when drafting an introduction?
Sophisticated hook (optional); Provide context (MTC); Define broad terms; Set limits/scope; Thesis statement.
How many sentences should a strong body paragraph consist of?
5-7
Give two contrasting transition words/phrases suggested in the slides to shift from the opposing view back to your own argument.
"However," "But," "In reality," "It fails to consider..."
If you run out of time and don't have a conclusion written yet, what should you do?
Quickly write one! This will earn you more points on the rubric.
Transform this informal sentence into academic register and avoid contractions, slang, and first-person: "A bunch of students didn't finish their homework, and that's kind of a big problem for teachers."
"A significant number of students failed to complete their homework, which presents substantial challenges to instructional pacing and assessment."
Read the sample prompt: "There are no circumstances in which it is acceptable to censor the internet." Write a concise, LEVEL-5 quality thesis (one sentence) that takes the position that some censorship can be acceptable if limits are fair and carefully designed.
Example LEVEL-5 thesis: "While unrestricted internet access is vital for free expression, narrowly tailored censorship can be justified in certain cases—such as to prevent widespread harm or illegal activity—provided that safeguards ensure fairness and protect fundamental rights."
How many body paragraphs should your essay have?
It depends (3 or 4 for argumentative, depending on their length; 4 for discursive)
Explain how including a well-written counterclaim strengthens an essay's credibility.
Including a counterclaim shows the writer considered alternatives, increases ethos by appearing reasonable, then strengthens the original claim by refuting the opposing view with evidence.
No:)