Writing an essay

Watts Riots 1965

Reading John Ball's novel In the heat of the night provided students with an opportunity to research a topic and present it in class. Congratulations to all the participants. I would like to thank you for putting so much work into it.

Now it's time for you to write about the novel.

You have four choices. Choose one of the following and write about 250-280 words:

1) Write a book review of In the heat of the night

2) Compare the book and the film

3) Sam Wood is the real hero in In the heat of the night. Discuss.

4) Racial prejudice and injustice: In the heat of the night.

Writing a book or film review

We discussed this in class. A review is not just a summary of the plot but also a commentary of the book or film.

There are different ways in which you can write your review.

You can follow the basic four-paragraph essay (introduction, main characters, plot or storyline, personal opinion)  or a more complex three-paragraph essay (introduction, summary of the content, a critical review which includes your reaction and feelings about the book or film, whether it made you think of broader issues and how you could relate this piece of fiction to other similar books or novels).

Writing an opinion essay   

A good opinion essay should have five paragraphs:

• Paragraph 1: Introduction

You should state your main idea plus three reasons why you believe this statement to be true.

• Paragraphs 2, 3, and 4: Main body

These are the body of your essay. Each paragraph should develop one of your reasons and explain it in more detail, providing an example.

• Paragraph 5: Conclusion

Here you restate your opinion.

If you are still in doubt, check this link.