Essay Writing
Listen to Course
0:00
0:00
EN: Using 'V-ing' (Gerund) as the subject of a sentence to talk about an activity.
Learning English is fun.
EN: In Western academic culture, essay writing is a fundamental skill taught early on, emphasizing individual critical thinking and structured arguments.
EN: Use 'when' to connect two ideas where one thing happens at the same time as another or as a result of it.
It is cold when it snows.
EN: The structure 'A is B' uses the verb 'is' to define or describe what the subject is.
A cat is a small animal.
EN: In Western academic culture, an 'essay' is a fundamental way for students to demonstrate critical thinking and clarity of argument.
EN: Use the Present Simple tense to talk about regular activities or facts that are generally true.
Teachers help students every day.
EN: In British English, people say 'at university', while in American English, it is more common to say 'in college'.
EN: Use the word 'has' (singular) or 'have' (plural) to show that something contains or possesses certain qualities.
A good book has an interesting story.
EN: In Western academic writing, 'structure' is often considered as important as the content itself. A 'clear structure' typically refers to having an introduction, body, and conclusion.
EN: Use 'will' followed by a base verb to talk about future plans or actions that are going to happen.
Tomorrow we will visit the museum.
EN: In Western academic settings, an 'essay' is a fundamental tool for developing critical thinking. Students are taught the standard structure (Introduction, Body, Conclusion) from a young age.
EN: When the subject is singular (like 'Every essay'), we add an 's' to the verb in the present tense.
Every student needs a pen.
EN: In Western academic writing, the 'introduction' is crucial as it sets the stage and provides a roadmap for the reader. It is not just a greeting but a functional part of the essay.
EN: Use the Present Simple tense to describe facts or what something does. Add '-s' to the verb when the subject is singular (The introduction).
The book explains the rules.
EN: In Western academic writing, the introduction is expected to be direct and clearly state the purpose of the essay immediately.
EN: When the subject is 'It', 'He', or 'She' in the present tense, we add an 's' to the end of the verb.
The book includes many pictures.
EN: In academic writing, a 'thesis' is the most critical part of an essay as it clearly states the writer's position. Using 'also' helps connect ideas smoothly between sentences.
EN: The verb 'is' (be-verb) acts like an equal sign (=) to connect a subject with a description or definition.
A dog is a loyal pet.
EN: In Western academic writing, a 'thesis statement' is essential. It is usually placed at the end of the first paragraph to tell the reader exactly what the writer will prove.
EN: Use 'For example' at the beginning of a sentence to introduce a specific case that illustrates your point.
For example, you can eat an apple for a healthy snack.
EN: The debate between 'dog people' and 'cat people' is a very common and lighthearted topic in Western culture, often used as a classic example of an argumentative topic in schools.
EN: Using 'what' to introduce a clause that acts as an object. It means 'the thing that'.
I know what you like.
EN: In academic writing, 'argue' does not mean to fight or shout. It means to present reasons and evidence to support an opinion.
EN: Use 'the most + adjective' to compare three or more things and show which one is at the highest level.
This is the most interesting book in the library.
EN: In Western academic writing, the 'thesis statement' is crucial because it tells the reader exactly what the writer intends to prove. It usually appears at the end of the first paragraph.
EN: Use 'come after' to describe the order or sequence of things. It means something happens or is placed following another thing.
Tuesday comes after Monday.
EN: In Western academic writing, the structure of an essay is very strict. The introduction always sets the stage, followed by body paragraphs that provide evidence, and ending with a conclusion.
EN: Use 'Each' followed by a singular noun to talk about every individual member of a group. The verb must also be singular (e.g., 'has' instead of 'have').
Each student has a book.
EN: In Western academic writing, the 'one paragraph, one idea' rule is a fundamental standard to ensure clarity and logical flow.
EN: Use 'that' to add more information about a noun (a reason). It connects the noun to an action or description.
I have a friend that lives in London.
EN: In Western academic writing, an 'argument' is not a fight or a disagreement. It is a logical statement used to persuade the reader that your main idea (thesis) is correct.
EN: Use 'to + verb' (infinitive) to show the purpose or reason why you do something.
I study hard to get good grades.
EN: In Western academic writing, providing evidence (facts or data) is essential. Simply stating an opinion without support is considered a weak argument.
EN: Use 'can be' to talk about possibilities or to define what something is able to be.
The weather can be very cold in winter.
EN: In academic writing, 'evidence' is an uncountable noun. Even if you have many facts, you usually say 'evidence' instead of 'evidences'.
EN: Use 'For instance' at the beginning of a sentence to introduce an example that supports your previous statement.
For instance, you can eat more fruit to stay healthy.
EN: In academic writing, 'For instance' and 'For example' are used interchangeably. However, providing evidence like 'studies' is a key part of Western essay structure to build a strong argument.
EN: Use 'Always' at the beginning of a sentence to give a strong command or a helpful piece of advice that should be followed every time.
Always wash your hands before eating.
EN: In academic writing, clarity is highly valued. Western essay standards emphasize that the writer is responsible for making the logic easy for the reader to follow, rather than the reader having to guess the meaning.
EN: Use 'The [Noun] of [Noun]' to show that one thing belongs to or is a part of another thing.
The color of the car is red.
EN: In English academic writing, the structure (Introduction, Body, Conclusion) is very strict. The conclusion is essential because it reinforces the writer's main point one last time.
EN: Use 'does not' (doesn't) with a base verb to make a negative sentence when the subject is singular (he, she, it, or a single thing).
He does not eat meat.
EN: In Western academic writing, the conclusion is strictly for summarizing and reinforcing the thesis. Introducing a completely new argument in the conclusion is considered a structural error.
EN: Use 'in' to describe the language, style, or manner in which something is expressed.
Please write the answer in English.
EN: In English academic writing, 'paraphrasing' (expressing the same idea using different words) is a crucial skill. Repeating the thesis in the conclusion is expected, but copying it word-for-word is discouraged.
EN: When the subject is 'He', 'She', or 'It', we add an '-s' to the end of the action word (verb) in the present tense.
She plays the piano every day.
EN: In academic writing, the conclusion is expected to be a concise wrap-up. Using words like 'summarize' helps the reader identify that the essay is ending.
EN: The verb 'make' can be used to cause someone to do something. After 'make + person', we use the base form of the verb (without 'to').
The movie makes me cry.
EN: In Western academic writing, the conclusion is not just a summary; it often aims to leave a lasting impression or 'food for thought' for the reader.
EN: Use 'can' to show possibility or options. It is followed by the base form of a verb.
You can use a pen or a pencil.
EN: In Western academic writing, ending with a 'thought-provoking question' or a 'call to action' is a common strategy to engage the reader after the main arguments are finished.
EN: The word 'know' is a stative verb used to describe a state of understanding or familiarity. It is usually used in the simple present tense rather than the continuous tense.
Now you know the answer to the question.
EN: In Western academic culture, understanding the 'structure' of an essay is considered the foundation of critical thinking and clear communication.
EN: Use 'Remember to' followed by a base verb to tell someone not to forget a future task or action.
Remember to bring your umbrella.
EN: In Western academic writing, having a 'thesis statement' is essential. It is usually placed at the end of the introduction to tell the reader exactly what the essay will prove.
EN: Imperative sentences (commands) start with a verb to tell someone what to do. The subject 'you' is understood and omitted.
Use a pen to sign your name.
EN: In English academic writing, the 'body' refers to the middle paragraphs of an essay where the main points are developed, distinct from the introduction and conclusion.
EN: Imperative sentences are used to give instructions or commands. They usually start with a verb and do not need a subject like 'you'.
Open the door.
EN: In English academic writing, a 'strong' conclusion is highly valued. It doesn't just end the essay; it leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
EN: Use 'make + object + adjective' to describe how something causes a change in state or quality.
Reading books will make you smart.
EN: The phrase 'Practice makes perfect' is a very common English proverb. This sentence is a softer, more realistic variation of that idea, emphasizing gradual improvement.
EN: Imperative sentences are used to give commands, advice, or encouragement. They start with the base form of a verb. To make it negative, use 'do not' or 'don't' before the verb.
Do not be late for class.
EN: In Western academic culture, making mistakes is often viewed as a necessary part of the learning process. Teachers frequently encourage students to focus on expressing ideas rather than perfect grammar in early drafts.
Key vocabulary words with IPA pronunciation, definitions, example sentences, and interactive quizzes.
Phrases with type tags, bilingual definitions, usage notes, and example sentences.
in the beginning
for example
the main part of an essay that develops the ideas
gradually as time passes
The main claim or central idea of an essay, usually expressed in a single sentence.
The middle sections of an essay that develop the main idea through arguments and evidence.
A logical reason or set of reasons given with the aim of persuading others that an action or idea is right or wrong.