Most students struggle to keep their entire essay tethered to their thesis.

Most parents have little idea how to help.

Both student and parent experience frustration. Both know the writing could be better, but aren’t sure how to make it better.

When I sit down to help a student one-on-one, I first make sure we have a solid thesis.

Then, we work through each evidence paragraph. I look for ways in which the student isn’t completing their thoughts, or isn’t stating their opinion clearly enough. Both of which create ambiguity, which often looks to a teacher like a lack of understanding on behalf of the student.

Finally, we work through the introduction and conclusion. Those two parts of the essay require the most eloquence and creativity, which is why they are the hardest for students to write well.

Rather than experiencing frustration, please ask for help. Send an email requesting a writer’s workshop anytime. I am able to accommodate most requests with 24 hours notice. The relief students feel when they start to “get it” and the pride they feel when the paper is done bring me great joy.

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