How to structure a essay - Downloadable poster

How to structure a essay

Often KS3 (age 12 years+) students struggle when they are introduced to essay writing and don't know where to start or how structure them. Essay writing is an important skill and will be used in GCSEs and further academic studies.

 

I made this simple  poster (downloadable) as a guide to help them get started. This is a good struture to follow whether you are writing at GCSE level or for a degree. 

The PEEL method is a technique used in essay writing to help structure paragraphs in a way that presents a clear point with evidence and a focused argument,which links back to the essay topic. 

Here’s an example of what you might include in a PEEL structured paragraph: 

Topic: Should whales be kept in captivity? 
Thesis/argument: Animals should not be kept in captivity.

Point: Whales should not be kept in captivity as it can affect their mental and physical health not being in their natural environment with their families. 

Evidence/Example: Many studies and statistics show that whales that are in captivity have a shorter lifespan compared to those who are in the wild. 

Explanation: The are many reasons for this including that fact that whales need space; on average a whale can swim 40 miles a day. They also live in social group with some whales staying with mothers their whole lives.  

Link: The evidence suggests that whales in captivity are being denied many important habits and needs that whales in the wild have. A pool made for a whale will never compare to the ocean and whales are being harmed and denied thier physical and mental rights being kept in captivity.