Essay Writing
Write argumentative, discursive and narrative essays
Types of Essays
In Grade 10, you write three main types of essays:
• Narrative — tells a story with a clear plot arc
• Argumentative — presents a position and supports it with evidence
• Discursive — explores different viewpoints on a topic before reaching a conclusion
Essay Structure
Every essay follows a structure:
1. Introduction — hook the reader, state your thesis or set the scene
2. Body paragraphs (3–4) — each with a topic sentence, supporting evidence and a concluding sentence
3. Conclusion — summarise your argument or end the story meaningfully
Length: 250–300 words for Grade 10.
Example
Argumentative Essay Outline
Topic: 'Social media does more harm than good for teenagers.'
Intro: Hook with a statistic + state your position.
Body 1: Cyberbullying and mental health impact.
Body 2: Distraction from studies and sleep loss.
Body 3: Counter-argument — social media connects people — then refute.
Conclusion: Restate position and call to action.
Note
Marking Criteria
Essays are marked on content & planning (30%), language & style (15%) and structure (5%). Plan for at least 10 minutes before writing. Use paragraphs, varied sentence structures and appropriate register.
Key Vocabulary
ThesisThe main argument or claim of an essay
ArgumentativeAn essay that takes a position and defends it
DiscursiveAn essay exploring multiple viewpoints on a topic
Topic sentenceThe first sentence of a paragraph stating its main point
RegisterThe level of formality in writing
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