Annotated examples of well-written essays

Here are some annotated examples of well-written essays across various subjects and styles:

Example 1: Argumentative Essay

  • Title: “The Benefits of Universal Healthcare”
  • Subject: Health Policy
  • Style: Persuasive
  • Annotation: + Introduction: The essay begins with a hook to grab the reader’s attention, followed by a clear thesis st statement that outlines the main argument. + Body Paragraph 1: The writer provides evidence from reputable sources to support their claim, using tran transition words and phrases to connect ideas. + Counterargument: The writer acknowledges potential counterarguments and addresses them in a thoughtful and respectful manner. + Conclusion: The essay concludes with a summary of the main points and a call to action, reiterating the importance of universal healthcare.

Example 2: Analytical Essay

  • Title: “The Symbolism of the Green Light in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby”
  • Subject: Literature
  • Style: Analytical
  • Annotation: + Introduction: The essay introduces the topic and provides context for the analysis, including a brief su summary of the novel. + Body Paragraph 1: The writer analyzes the symbolism of the green light, using quotes from the text to su support their interpretation. + Close Reading: The writer performs a close reading of a specific passage, examining the language and ima imagery used by Fitzgerald. + Conclusion: The essay concludes with a summary of the main points and an evaluation of the significance of the green light in the novel.

Example 3: Narrative Essay

  • Title: “A Childhood Memory: A Trip to the Beach”
  • Subject: Personal Experience
  • Style: Descriptive
  • Annotation: + Introduction: The essay begins with a vivid description of the setting, using sensory details to transport the reader to the scene. + Body Paragraph 1: The writer tells a story about a childhood experience, using descriptive language and dialogue to bring the narrative to life. + Reflection: The writer reflects on the significance of the experience, exploring what it revealed about their personality or values. + Conclusion: The essay concludes with a reflection on the importance of holding onto memories and the role they play in shaping our identities.

Example 4: Expository Essay

  • Title: “The History of the Internet”
  • Subject: Technology
  • Style: Informative
  • Annotation: + Introduction: The essay provides an overview of the topic, including a brief history and context. + Body Paragraph 1: The writer explains the development of the internet, using technical terms and concepts to describe its evolution. + Cause-and-Effect Analysis: The writer analyzes the impact of the internet on society, discussing both po positive and negative effects. + Conclusion: The essay concludes with a summary of the main points and an evaluation of the significance of the internet in modern life.

Example 5: Comparative Essay

  • Title: “A Comparison of the Leadership Styles of Abraham Lincoln and Franklin D. Roosevelt”
  • Subject: History
  • Style: Comparative
  • Annotation: + Introduction: The essay introduces the two leaders and provides context for the comparison, including a brief overview of their historical significance. + Body Paragraph 1: The writer compares the leadership styles of the two presidents, using specific examples and quotes to support their analysis. + Point-by-Point Comparison: The writer compares the two leaders on specific points, such as their communi communication styles or policy decisions. + Conclusion: The essay concludes with a summary of the main points and an evaluation of the implications of their leadership styles for modern politics.

These annotated examples illustrate various aspects of well-written essays, including:

  • Clear and concise writing
  • Effective use of transitions and connections between ideas
  • Strong evidence and support for claims
  • Thoughtful analysis and reflection
  • Attention to sentence-level craft, such as syntax and tone

By studying these examples, writers can develop their skills and learn how to craft compelling, well-structured essays that engage readers and convey their ideas effectively.