Introduction on Introduction on How to Write How to Write Essays Essays By Mr Daniel Hansson By Mr Daniel Hansson
Dec 14, 2015
Introduction on How Introduction on How to Write Essaysto Write Essays
Introduction on How Introduction on How to Write Essaysto Write Essays
By Mr Daniel HanssonBy Mr Daniel Hansson
Introduction• State the aim of your
essay (not always necessary if the thesis is implicitly clear)
• Include definitions, if necessary
• Keep it short (maximum three sentences recommended)
Body• Explain theories/concepts• Illustrate with study/studies
(Aim, procedure, findings)• Comment on the
methodology of the studies (limitations, strengths, conclusion – to what extent do they support the theory?)
• Evaluate the theory/concept (limitations and strengths of theory)
Types of IB Psychology Essays
• Examine/Discuss/Evaluate/To what extent…
• Compare…• Contrast…• Compare and contrast…
Examine/Discuss/Evaluate/To What
Extent…• Describe and explain theories,
concepts and studies• Evaluate theories and studies• Compare/contrast theories, if
relevant• Define important concepts when
necessary
Compare and Contrast• Outline theories/concepts and
studies• Compare and contrast theories - 3-
4 similarities/differences• Define important concepts when
necessary
Compare and Contrast
• Compare: Similarities between concepts
• Contrast: Differences between concepts
• Compare and contrast: Similarities and differences between concepts
Similarities and Differences to Consider• Validity of the evidence• Explanations• Type of evidence supporting the
theories• Applications
Evaluation/Comparison• About as much on
strengths as on limitations
• About as much on similarities as on differences
Conclusion • Answer the aim by making a
judgment:• Is the evidence strong enough
to draw a conclusion?• Which side do the evidence
favor? To what extent? With any modifications?
• If the evidence favor both positions, choose the middle position between the extremes
• Implications of the conclusion (Applications, contribution to our understanding of behavior, future research)
Conclusion • Tolerate uncertainty,
do not overestimate findings or draw too bold conclusions
• You may have a concluding sentence or quote that summarizes the main idea of your essay
Basic Structure of Timed essays
• Aim of essay• Definitions• Explanation of theory• Supporting/challenging studies• Relevant analysis of studies (strengths and
weaknesses, why do they support/challenge the theory)• Discussion/comparison of theory• Conclusion
Other Tips• Don’t forget to always
state the year and researcher name (s) of a theory/study
• Divide into paragraphs. One idea per paragraph
• Formal language (no slang, appropriate wording)
Other Tips• Never say that a study
disproves or refutes a theory, only that it challenges/opposes or supports it.
• Use a neat handwriting. If it cannot be read it cannot be marked.
• Make it enjoyable to read. Create a good text flow. Be positive.