History, Literature, Divinity, Geography

Form 1-4 1st Lesson: By Leeroy Zizhou

06-10-20

Writing an Essay.
What is an Essay?
It is a piece of writing that is composed of complete paragraphs with text that is addressing a particular scenario
conjured up by the examiner.
Each paragraph should equivalent to a single point/mark no matter the question or subject. That is why it is
advisable to have each point occupy its own paragraph. If the question is written “(13 marks)” at the end, it
plainly means come up with 13 points with each point occupying its own paragraph.
There are three fundamental parts to a good essay point:
1. The Plain/Opening Statement. - It serves the sole purpose of merely mentioning the point which that
paragraph will be talking about. It is a very simple sentence that is at most one line long.

2. Expansion of the idea. These may be a number of sentences that are giving more detail to the plain
statement.

This is addressing “who/what does/did what” and “how/it they do/did this.” It may sometimes have to
relay “where” and “when” this occurs as well. You are adding flesh to your answer. This is the part
where you demonstrate to the examiner that you have thoroughly read on whatever the topic, he or she
may be asking you on.

3. Exemplification. As the name suggests, this is part of your point’s paragraph that is offering an
appropriate example, anchoring all you have written prior before that.

This helps even you as the candidate as to how valid your point is. The moment you struggle to give an
example to support and add color to your answer, there should be a question mark!

e.g. Question: Describe the economic organization of Great Zimbabwe. (9 marks)

Ans:
The people of Great Zimbabwe were hunters. Hunting was an activity done by the young men
and boys of the society. They used bow and arrows to take down very mobile and difficult
targets from a distance, dug large pits for huge game like elephants and sometimes poison and
nets depending on their target. Hunting was a great source of ivory, protein and sometimes was
applied as part of male initiation ceremonies.

Simple Key:
Plain Statement ………………………………
Expansion of Idea ………………………………
Exemplification ………………………………
If for every point you follow these very simple tricks, I guarantee that you will already carry within you 30% of
your mark as a candidate.
For queries, questions, suggestions, additions and deductions, call, WhatsApp, or text message me at:
0773442263
OR visit me at 6288 Westlea, Harare.
OR email me at zizhouleeroy@gmail.com