how many words does the average middle school essay have

How Many Words Should Your Essay Have for Grading High?

How many words are in an essay?

This question bothers all students, whether in middle school or college. Two reasons:

They don’t have word count guidelines to know how long their essay should be to grade high. Or, they struggle with the word limit within a paper and wonder if they can go under the suggested length.

The essay length varies, depending on many factors: subject, purpose, and academic level. Essays are usually shorter than dissertations or research papers. The thesis is the longest one.

In this article, I’ll answer two popular questions: How long is an essay? How many paragraphs are in an essay?

Also, let’s learn how long each essay part is and if it’s okay to go beyond or under the suggested length.

How Long is an Essay, Depending on the Type?

The above rules are average. They may vary at different educational institutions. It stands to reason that elementary-level students write short essays. And their papers get longer in their middle 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th grades, etc.

Often, there’s no exact word number or page count for academic papers. Guidelines usually prescribe a supposed range: 500-850 words, 5-7 pages, and so on. When in doubt, you can ask your instructor.

How Many Paragraphs is an Essay? 6 Main Lengths

You won’t find any rule prescribing a set number of paragraphs for an essay. Five-paragraph essays are a standard, but it doesn’t mean ALL papers should follow it.

Each essay consists of three parts:

Introduction . Often, it’s one paragraph introducing your topic and thesis to readers. When writing complex papers like dissertations, your intro section can be 2-3 paragraphs.
Body. It’s a core section discussing the topic in detail. The number of paragraphs here depends on your paper’s type and complexity. This part is 1-4 paragraphs unless you write extended research papers.
Conclusion. Like intros, this section is often one paragraph summarizing the essay.

Below, I’ll cover the six main lengths to show how to balance a word count in essays.

One-paragraph essays

Three-paragraph papers, five-paragraph essays, extended papers, dissertation, frequently asked questions:, is essay length important.

Yes, it is. Prescribing a length, instructors understand if you can organize thoughts and arguments. An essay of 1,000 words requires more research and effort than a 350-word paper, agree? The specified length also helps you understand how complex your work should be to grade high. Longer essays teach you to write cohesive texts, choose arguments, and think critically.

Don’t write essays for the sake of count. Quality matters, so please focus on arguments, evidence, and analysis. Avoid placing too many transitions, generic words, and lengthy expressions. Make your every word and sentence count.

How many words are in an essay sample?

350 words at least.

It depends on the essay type you write. Thus, a high school essay sample will be 350 words at least. If you need a college application essay, consider personal papers of 250-650 words. Check essay samples of 800-1,000 words if you need a standard college paper. More complex works like graduate school essays or dissertations will be 3,000+ words.

How long is each part of an essay?

Stick to the 80/20 rule when calculating the length of each essay part. An essay body is the core section of academic papers: Make it 80% of the text. The remaining 20% goes to an introduction and a conclusion.

Say you write a 1,000-word essay. It means you will have 800 words in the body; 100 words go to the introduction and 100 words — for a concluding paragraph. You can go 10% below or above the prescribed limit. (Unless your instructor sets specific limitations.)

How many sentences are in an essay?

21-34 sentences for a standard 5-paragraph essay.

It depends on your essay type and the required word count. I’ll take a standard 5-paragraph college paper as an example:

You have one introductory paragraph, which is 3-5 sentences average. Other 3-5 sentences go to your conclusion. The body consists of three sections, 5-8 sentences each (1). So, here we have it: 21-34 sentences in an essay.

How many words are in an essay introduction?

Take 10-15% of the total length required. Thus, if you need to write a 1,000-word essay, your introduction will be 100-150 words.

For advanced research papers, where intros are longer than one paragraph, stick to 100-150 words per paragraph average. Such texts are usually above 3,000 words, so you’ll follow the 80/20 rule anyway.

Can I go under the suggested length?

It’s not advisable. Please do your best to meet the minimum word count given in the assignment. If the guidelines say “350-600 words,” write at least 350 words in an essay. Sometimes, a 10% deviation is acceptable, but don’t take this rule for granted. Most instructors won’t appreciate your 315-word paper if they ask you to write 350 words at least.

How to make your essay longer?

Add more examples and evidence to the body paragraphs.
Explain and analyze every argument in detail.
Mention counterarguments if applicable.

Can I make my essay longer?

Yes, you can exceed the word limit by 10% if allowed by your course instructor. For example, if you get an assignment of 500-700 words, it’s okay to submit a 770-word essay for a review.

Important! Always ask your instructor if the 10% rule is available in their course. And exceed the word count only if you have critical information to add.

Academic writing is all about rules and instructions. Essay length isn’t an exception:

Every college paper has a prescribed, approximate word count to follow. When asking, “How long is an essay?” remember the answer will depend on several factors:

Academic level. (Middle and high school students write short essays. Undergraduates and graduates craft longer and more complex papers.)
Type and purpose. (Research-based essays are longer than reflective stories you write for college admission officers.)
Instructions you get from a teacher. (Check them: The supposed essay length is often there.)

How many words are in an essay? You can answer this question now.

References:

https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/paragraphs_and_paragraphing/paragraphing.html
Essay samples
Essay writing
Writing tips

essay Length Demystified: How Long Should Your 7th Grader's Essay Be?

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As students transition into middle school, they encounter new academic challenges that require them to develop their writing skills. One of the most common questions that arise among 7th graders and their parents is: "How long should my essay be?" This question is not just about meeting a word count; it encompasses understanding the purpose of the essay, the expectations of teachers, and the importance of clarity and conciseness in writing. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the factors that influence essay length, provide guidelines for different types of essays, and offer tips to help your 7th grader craft a well-structured piece of writing.

Understanding the Purpose of the Essay

Before diving into specifics about essay length, it’s essential to understand the purpose of an essay. Essays are a way for students to express their thoughts, analyze information, and communicate ideas effectively. In 7th grade, essays often serve various purposes, each with its unique structure and style. Understanding these purposes can significantly enhance a student's writing skills and help them articulate their ideas more clearly. Below are the primary types of essays that 7th graders may encounter:

Persuasive Essays

Persuasive essays aim to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint or argument. In this type of essay, students must take a stance on an issue and provide compelling reasons and evidence to support their position. This often involves:

Researching the Topic: Students need to gather facts, statistics, and expert opinions that bolster their argument. This research can come from books, articles, or credible online sources.
Understanding Counterarguments: A strong persuasive essay acknowledges opposing viewpoints. Students should address these counterarguments and refute them with logical reasoning and evidence.
Using Persuasive Language: The choice of words is crucial in persuasive writing. Students should use emotive language and rhetorical devices, such as ethos, pathos, and logos, to engage the reader and strengthen their argument.

Ultimately, the goal of a persuasive essay is not just to present information but to persuade the reader to adopt a particular perspective or take action.

Expository Essays

Expository essays are designed to explain a topic or provide information in a clear and concise manner. These essays often require thorough research and factual evidence to support the information presented. Key components of expository essays include:

Clear Thesis Statement: A strong thesis statement is essential, as it outlines the main idea of the essay and guides the reader through the information presented.
Logical Organization: Expository essays should be well-structured, often following a format that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of the topic.
Use of Examples and Evidence: To effectively explain a topic, students should include relevant examples, facts, and statistics that enhance the reader's understanding.

Expository essays are not about personal opinions; instead, they focus on delivering information in an objective manner, making them a vital skill for academic success.

Narrative Essays

Narrative essays tell a story or recount personal experiences, allowing students to express their creativity and individuality. This type of essay often includes:

Personal Reflection: Students are encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings about the experiences they describe, making the narrative more relatable and engaging.
Descriptive Language: To create vivid imagery, students should use sensory details that allow readers to visualize the events and emotions being conveyed.
Structured Plot: A narrative essay typically follows a clear structure, including a beginning (introduction), middle (the main events), and end (conclusion), which helps to maintain the reader's interest.

Narrative essays provide an opportunity for students to connect with their audience on a personal level, making storytelling an essential skill in writing.

Descriptive Essays

Descriptive essays aim to paint a picture with words, using sensory details to describe a person, place, or event. This type of essay focuses on creating a vivid experience for the reader through:

Vivid Imagery: Students should use descriptive language that appeals to the senses—sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch—to immerse the reader in the experience.
Strong Adjectives and Adverbs: The use of precise and evocative adjectives and adverbs can enhance the imagery and help convey emotions effectively.
Organized Structure: While descriptive essays may not follow a strict format, they should still have a clear organization, often focusing on one aspect of the subject at a time.

Descriptive essays allow students to showcase their creativity and ability to express complex emotions and experiences through language.

Each type of essay has its own requirements and expectations, which can influence the length. Understanding the purpose behind the essay will help your 7th grader determine how much content is necessary to effectively convey their message. By recognizing the distinct characteristics of each essay type, students can tailor their writing to meet the specific demands of the assignment, ultimately enhancing their overall writing proficiency.

Factors Influencing Essay Length

Several factors can influence the length of a 7th grader's essay, and understanding these elements can help students produce more effective and appropriately sized written work. Below, we delve deeper into each factor that plays a significant role in determining how long an essay should be.

1. Assignment Guidelines

Teachers often provide specific guidelines regarding essay length, which can vary significantly from one assignment to another. These guidelines may include a word count, such as 500 to 800 words, or a page number, typically ranging from two to three pages, depending on the complexity of the topic and the level of detail required. It’s crucial for students to pay attention to these instructions, as they are designed to help them practice writing within certain constraints. Adhering to these guidelines not only demonstrates a student's ability to follow directions but also helps them develop essential skills in time management and organization. Moreover, understanding the importance of these parameters can prepare students for future academic writing tasks, where strict adherence to guidelines is often expected.

2. Type of Essay

As mentioned earlier, different types of essays have varying expectations, which can significantly impact their length. For instance, a persuasive essay may require more evidence and counterarguments, leading to a longer piece that thoroughly addresses opposing viewpoints. In contrast, a narrative essay might be shorter if it focuses on a single event or personal experience, allowing the writer to convey their story succinctly. Other types of essays, such as expository or analytical essays, may also have specific requirements that dictate their length. For example, an expository essay that explains a scientific concept may need to include definitions, examples, and explanations, which can contribute to a more extended format. Understanding the characteristics of each essay type can help students tailor their writing to meet the expectations of the assignment.

3. Topic Complexity

The complexity of the topic can also dictate essay length. A straightforward topic, such as "My Favorite Hobby," may require less explanation and detail, resulting in a shorter essay. Conversely, a more complex issue, such as "The Impact of Climate Change on Global Ecosystems," might necessitate a deeper exploration of various factors, scientific data, and multiple perspectives, resulting in a longer essay. Additionally, topics that require critical thinking and analysis, such as social issues or historical events, often demand more in-depth research and discussion, further contributing to increased length. Students should assess their chosen topic's complexity and adjust their writing accordingly, ensuring they provide adequate coverage of the subject matter without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary information.

4. Audience

Understanding the audience is vital when determining essay length. If the essay is intended for a younger audience, it may need to be simpler and shorter, using language and concepts that are easily digestible. Conversely, if the audience is more advanced, such as peers or educators, the essay might need to be longer and more detailed, incorporating sophisticated vocabulary and complex ideas. Additionally, the purpose of the essay can influence its length; for example, an essay meant to inform may require more extensive explanations and examples than one intended to entertain. Students should consider who will be reading their essay and adjust their writing style and length to effectively engage that audience, ensuring that the content is both appropriate and compelling.

5. Personal Writing Style

Every student has a unique writing style that can significantly affect the length of their essays. Some students may be more concise, preferring to express their ideas in a straightforward manner, while others may elaborate on their thoughts, providing additional details and examples. Encouraging your child to find their voice while adhering to the assignment guidelines is essential, as this balance can lead to more authentic and engaging writing. Additionally, students should be mindful of their audience and the type of essay they are writing, as these factors can influence how much detail is necessary. By developing their writing style and learning to adjust it based on the context, students can create essays that are not only appropriately lengthy but also reflective of their individual perspectives and insights.

General Guidelines for Essay Length

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long a 7th grader's essay should be, there are general guidelines that can help students navigate their writing assignments effectively. Understanding these guidelines can not only assist in meeting the expectations of teachers but also help students develop their writing skills in a structured manner. Below are some key considerations regarding essay length, including word count, page count, and paragraph structure.

1. Word Count

For 7th graders, a typical essay length can range from 300 to 1,000 words, depending on the type of essay and the assignment requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of essays and their corresponding word counts:

Short Essays: 300-500 words (e.g., responses to prompts or reflections). These essays are often designed to encourage quick thinking and concise expression of ideas. They may require students to summarize a text or articulate their personal opinions on a topic.
Standard Essays: 500-800 words (e.g., expository or narrative essays). These essays typically require more in-depth exploration of a subject. Students might be asked to explain a concept, tell a story, or analyze a character from a book, necessitating a more detailed approach.
Longer Essays: 800-1,000 words (e.g., persuasive essays requiring extensive argumentation). These essays demand a higher level of critical thinking and organization, as students must present a clear argument, support it with evidence, and address counterarguments. This length allows for a more thorough exploration of the topic at hand.

2. Page Count

In terms of pages, a standard essay for a 7th grader typically ranges from 1 to 3 pages, depending on formatting (double-spaced, 12-point font, etc.). Here’s a rough estimate of how word count translates into page count:

1 Page: Approximately 250-300 words. This is often sufficient for a brief overview or a single idea, making it ideal for quick assignments or reflections.
2 Pages: Approximately 500-600 words. This length allows for a more detailed examination of a topic, providing enough space for an introduction, body, and conclusion.
3 Pages: Approximately 750-900 words. This is suitable for more complex topics that require extensive discussion, analysis, or argumentation, allowing students to delve deeper into their subject matter.

3. Paragraph Structure

Essays should be structured into paragraphs, each focusing on a single idea. A well-organized essay not only enhances readability but also helps convey the writer's message more effectively. A general guideline for paragraph length is as follows:

Introduction: 1 paragraph (approximately 100-150 words). The introduction should grab the reader's attention, provide background information, and present the thesis statement, which outlines the main argument or purpose of the essay.
Body Paragraphs: 3-5 paragraphs (approximately 100-200 words each). Each body paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. This should be followed by supporting details, examples, and explanations that reinforce the topic sentence. The number of body paragraphs can vary based on the complexity of the topic and the depth of analysis required.
Conclusion: 1 paragraph (approximately 100-150 words). The conclusion should summarize the main points discussed in the essay, restate the thesis in light of the evidence presented, and offer final thoughts or reflections. It serves as the last opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

4. Consideration of Audience and Purpose

When determining the appropriate length for an essay, it is also essential to consider the audience and purpose of the writing. For instance, if the essay is intended for a classroom setting, the teacher's expectations and grading criteria should guide the length and depth of the content. Conversely, if the essay is meant for a broader audience, such as a school publication or a competition, students may want to expand their ideas further to engage readers effectively.

5. Importance of Revision

Finally, regardless of the initial word count or page length, students should always prioritize revision. The first draft of an essay is rarely perfect; it is through the revision process that students can refine their arguments, clarify their ideas, and enhance the overall quality of their writing. Encouraging students to seek feedback from peers or teachers can also provide valuable insights that contribute to a more polished final product.

In conclusion, while there are general guidelines regarding essay length for 7th graders, it is crucial for students to adapt their writing to meet specific assignment requirements and to develop their unique voice as writers. By understanding the importance of word count, page count, paragraph structure, audience, and revision, students can become more confident and effective communicators.

Tips for Writing a Well-Structured Essay

Now that we have established the factors influencing essay length and general guidelines, here are some tips to help your 7th grader write a well-structured essay:

1. Start with an Outline

Encourage your child to create an outline before they start writing. An outline serves as a roadmap for the essay, helping to organize thoughts and ensuring that the essay has a logical flow. It can include:

Introduction with a thesis statement: The introduction should grab the reader's attention and provide background information on the topic. The thesis statement, typically found at the end of the introduction, should clearly state the main argument or purpose of the essay.
Main points for body paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on a single main point that supports the thesis. These points should be arranged in a logical order, whether chronologically, thematically, or in order of importance.
Supporting details and examples: For each main point, your child should include supporting details, such as facts, statistics, quotes, or anecdotes. These details help to substantiate the argument and make it more persuasive.
Conclusion summary: The conclusion should summarize the main points discussed in the essay and restate the thesis in light of the evidence presented. It’s also a good opportunity to leave the reader with a final thought or call to action.

2. Focus on Clarity and Conciseness

While it’s essential to meet the length requirements, clarity and conciseness should be prioritized. Encourage your child to express their ideas clearly and avoid unnecessary fluff. Each sentence should contribute to the overall argument or narrative. Here are some strategies to enhance clarity:

Use simple language: Encourage your child to use straightforward vocabulary that is appropriate for their audience. Complex words can confuse readers and detract from the message.
Avoid jargon: Unless the essay is for a specialized audience, it’s best to avoid technical terms or jargon that may not be understood by all readers.
Be specific: Instead of vague statements, encourage your child to provide specific examples and details that illustrate their points. This makes the writing more engaging and informative.

3. Use Transitional Phrases

Transitional phrases help guide the reader through the essay, creating a seamless flow of ideas. Encourage your child to use phrases like "firstly," "in addition," "on the other hand," and "in conclusion" to connect ideas and paragraphs smoothly. Here are some additional transitional phrases to consider:

To add information: Furthermore, Moreover, Additionally
To compare: Similarly, Likewise, In the same vein
To contrast: Conversely, However, Nevertheless
To illustrate: For example, For instance, Specifically
To conclude: Ultimately, In summary, Overall

4. Revise and Edit

After completing the first draft, it’s crucial to revise and edit the essay. Encourage your child to check for grammatical errors, awkward phrasing, and overall coherence. Here are some steps to follow during the revision process:

Take a break: After finishing the first draft, it can be helpful to take a short break before revising. This allows your child to return to the essay with fresh eyes.
Read for content: During the first round of revision, focus on the content. Does each paragraph support the thesis? Are there any gaps in logic or missing information?
Check for grammar and punctuation: In the second round, focus on grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Encourage your child to use tools like grammar checkers or to consult a grammar guide if they are unsure.
Read aloud: Reading the essay aloud can help identify areas that need improvement. This technique allows your child to hear how the essay flows and catch any awkward phrasing or unclear sentences.

5. Seek Feedback

Encourage your child to seek feedback from peers, teachers, or family members. Constructive criticism can provide valuable insights and help improve the quality of the essay. Here are some tips for effectively seeking and utilizing feedback:

Choose the right audience: Encourage your child to share their essay with individuals who are familiar with the topic or have experience in writing. This can include teachers, classmates, or family members who enjoy reading.
Ask specific questions: When seeking feedback, your child should ask specific questions about areas they are unsure of, such as clarity, argument strength, or organization. This can lead to more constructive and useful feedback.
Be open to criticism: Encourage your child to approach feedback with an open mind. Not all suggestions will be applicable, but being receptive to criticism can lead to significant improvements in their writing.
Implement changes thoughtfully: After receiving feedback, your child should carefully consider which suggestions to implement. It’s important to maintain their voice and perspective while making necessary adjustments.

By following these tips, your 7th grader can develop the skills needed to write a well-structured essay that effectively communicates their ideas and arguments. With practice and dedication, they will become more confident and proficient writers.

Determining the appropriate length for a 7th grader's essay can be a daunting task, but understanding the factors that influence essay length and adhering to general guidelines can make the process easier. Remember that the goal of writing an essay is not just to meet a word count but to communicate ideas effectively and engage the reader. By focusing on clarity, structure, and revision, your 7th grader can develop their writing skills and produce essays that are not only the right length but also impactful and meaningful.

Understanding Essay Length Requirements

When it comes to essay length, it's essential to consider the specific requirements set by teachers or educational institutions. Typically, a 7th-grade essay might range from 300 to 800 words, depending on the assignment's complexity and the subject matter. For instance, a simple narrative essay may require fewer words, while a research-based argumentative essay could demand a more extensive exploration of the topic. Understanding these parameters can help students gauge how much content they need to include while ensuring they stay within the expected limits.

The Importance of Structure

A well-structured essay not only helps in organizing thoughts but also contributes to the overall length. A standard essay structure includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each section serves a distinct purpose: the introduction presents the main idea and hooks the reader, the body paragraphs elaborate on the topic with supporting details and examples, and the conclusion summarizes the key points and reinforces the thesis. By adhering to this structure, students can effectively manage their content and ensure that they are meeting the length requirements without unnecessary filler.

Clarity and Conciseness

While it may be tempting for students to pad their essays with extra words to reach a specific length, clarity and conciseness should always take precedence. Encouraging students to express their ideas clearly and succinctly will not only enhance the quality of their writing but also make it easier for them to stay within the desired word count. They should focus on eliminating redundant phrases and unnecessary jargon, opting instead for straightforward language that conveys their message effectively. This approach not only improves readability but also engages the reader more effectively.

The Role of Revision

Revision is a critical step in the writing process that can significantly impact the final length and quality of an essay. After completing a draft, students should take the time to review their work, looking for areas where they can expand on ideas or, conversely, where they may need to trim excess content. This process allows them to refine their arguments, enhance their vocabulary, and ensure that each sentence contributes meaningfully to their overall message. By revising their essays, students can achieve a balance between meeting length requirements and maintaining the integrity of their ideas.

Encouraging Exploration and Creativity

As they continue to grow as writers, encourage them to embrace the writing process, explore different styles, and express their unique voice. Writing is not just a skill; it is an art form that allows individuals to share their perspectives and experiences. By experimenting with various genres, such as poetry, short stories, or persuasive essays, students can discover what resonates with them and develop their personal writing style. This exploration can lead to a more authentic and engaging writing experience, ultimately resulting in essays that are not only the right length but also rich in content and creativity.

Building Confidence for Future Challenges

With practice and guidance, they will become more confident in their writing abilities, ready to tackle the challenges of higher grades and beyond. Writing is a skill that builds upon itself; the more students write, the more proficient they become. By providing constructive feedback and celebrating their successes, parents and educators can foster a positive writing environment that encourages growth. As students advance through their academic careers, the ability to articulate thoughts clearly and effectively will serve them well, not just in essays but in all forms of communication.

In conclusion, while determining the appropriate length for a 7th grader's essay may seem challenging, it is an opportunity for growth and development. By focusing on the essential elements of essay writing—length requirements, structure, clarity, revision, and creative expression—students can enhance their writing skills and produce essays that are both impactful and meaningful. With continued practice and encouragement, they will be well-equipped to navigate the complexities of writing in higher grades and beyond.

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Reluctant Reader Books

The Ultimate Guide to Middle School Essays

how many words does the average middle school essay have

Why are middle school essays such a chore? Is there a way to make them more manageable? To teach the planning, organizing, writing and editing in a way that is simpler but more effective? We think so.

Below you’ll find our complete guide to middle school essay writing. The resources mentioned below can be found on TPT.

Want a sneak peak first? Check out the preview below (preview does not include full resource).

Before You Write: Taking Notes & Brainstorming

Taking notes for middle school essays.

Often middle school essays begin with taking notes. There are dozens of quality notetaking methods out there, from Cornell Notes to Sketch Notes and more. We don’t necessarily recommend a single notetaking system, given that some students are linear learners while others are visual, etc. Whatever notetaking method you use in your own room is fine.

What our resources focus on is the fundamentals of notetaking. What does it mean to take notes in the first place?

At it’s core taking notes is about noticing something within a text and then thinking about what you noticed.

This is what we try to get across to middle school students.

What you notice is not actually as important as the fact that you noticed it in the first place. And no matter what you did notice, it is the thinking that is most important of all.

Noticing…thinking…noticing…thinking. Back and forth.

But aren’t there questions students can ask? Guides that can direct them to the kinds of deeper level noticing that we want them to aspire to.

Indeed there are.

Which is why we have created just such a list.

We recommend modeling notetaking as a whole class. It can often be helpful to assign different types of questions to different students to track. So one student might be responsible for tracking images, another for looking out for foreshadowing, another for pondering why the writer chose a particular title, etc. Then you as the teacher can model how you take notes, what you notice and think, while at the same time getting input from students as you go.

No matter what system of notetaking you use with your students, it is an endeavor that requires lots of practice. But the more you do it together as a class, the more students will start to understand what to look for in the first place.

Image Boards & Quote Boards

So you’ve got a decent set of notes. Now what? How do you use those notes to write a compelling essay?

This is the step that many middle school students get bogged down on. Many either can’t come up with anything at all or just want to dive directly into the writing (which can be fine for the students who are great writers, but is often a disaster for everyone else).

Image Boards and Quote Boards are two methods for mining the notes students have taken and pulling out ideas to build an essay around. And what’s great about both is that they are very visual.

To make either, the first step is for students to review their notes and identify major ideas, concepts or themes that stand out (hopefully something stands out).

For example, a student reading Poe’s The Tell-Tale Heart may have noticed that there is a lot of references to eyes and seeing. Poe repeats words related to sight multiple times throughout the story, and the old man’s eye is central to the plot. Jumping off from there, a student could create an Image Board that focuses on this theme.

Or perhaps a student has noticed that Poe never names the narrator of the story. In fact, there are no details about the narrator at all, nothing that reveals the narrator’s identity in any way. A savvy student might then ask: what if the narrator is a woman?

Image Boards do not have to be overly complicated. The purpose is simply to identity major themes and ideas that could be explored in an essay. Image Boards work best when students stick to broader concepts (which, after all, are what essays will likely be crafted around).

A Quote Board is in the same vein. The difference is that instead of looking for images, students will search for quotes from other writers that relate to the theme or idea they want to write about.

For example, Ray Bradbury’s story All Summer in a Day revolves around the idea of memory. In the story, it is Margot’s memory of the sun that separates her from the other students on Venus, who cannot recall the sunshine they experienced when they were little.

Quote Boards and Image Boards can easily be combined by simply requiring students to make an Image Board that includes so many quotes.

Both boards can be easily made in Canva (which offers free versions for students).

Claim Station

Once students have started to get an idea of what they want to write about, it’s time to start crafting claims. A claim is the central argument or idea that students will explore in the essay. It is the essay’s central thesis statement.

There are lots of ways to work with students to create claims for their essays. We like creating a Claim Station: a tag board or area in the classroom where students can write out claim sentences on sticky notes and hang them for everyone to see. We recommend having each student write multiple claims and post them (this encourages students to think about a range of different essays that can be written from the same text).

As students post claims, give them time to review all the different claims that their classmates have come up with. Then tell students that any claim at the station is up for grabs. You don’t have to write about the claim you came up with if a different claim is more compelling.

The purpose of a claim station is for students to see that there are a lot of different ideas out there, and thus a lot of different possible essays. It can also help those students who still feel lost in trying to connect their notes to an actual argument to build an essay around.

Structuring Your Essay

Structure cards.

Once students have a solid claim, they can begin structuring their essays. This is another area middle school students often struggle with. Which is why Structure Cards can be particularly helpful.

Structure Cards are color-coded cards for each of the following:

Claim/Thesis Card
Opening & Closing Paragraph Cards
Topic Sentence Cards
Evidence Cards

Each card requires students to get specific: what is your thesis sentence? What evidence supports this sentence? What sentence opens your closing paragraph? Etc.

Because the cards are color-coded, students can visually see the way their essay’s structure works. They can visualize the connections between the different parts of their essay.

Structure Cards a great way to help visual learners understand essay structure.

Visual Essays

Once students have worked out the structure of their essays, they can now craft Visual Essays. This is the last step before sitting down to pound out the first full draft.

A Visual Essay is another scaffolding piece between brainstorming and writing. It allows students to build from their Structure Cards and fully visualize each section of their essay.

To create a Visual Essay, students must create either a slide or a PNG image (we recommend using Canva) for each paragraph in their essay. For each slide/image, students must take a picture or upload an image of the text they read (you can have students take pictures with their phones and upload them, or do this yourself and supply the images in a shared drive). These pictures are used as the main section of the image/slide.

Students must identify and highlight in the text the evidence they will be citing for each paragraph. This forces students to get very specific and connect the ideas they are writing about to the text they read.

Then students must add the following:

Their thesis/topic sentence
An Evidence Sentence that points to the evidence in the text
A Justification Sentence that explains how the evidence supports the thesis/topic sentence

Visual Essays are also great for peer feedback. They are much easier for students to read and review and provide criticism for. And they provide an excellent space for feedback before students go through the laborious process of writing the entire essay.

Writing & Revising Your Essay

Brain dumping.

We work with a lot of visual-spatial students. Many of these students struggle to write at all and especially struggle to write by hand. Their minds are often filled with dozens and dozens of ideas, all of which are vying for attention right this second .

One way to help students put aside all the ideas buzzing inside their heads and focus on the single idea of their essay is to have them do a Brain Dump before they get to work.

A Brain Dump is simply a bullet list. It doesn’t have to be complete sentences (although it can be). Give students five minutes to write down every single idea that they have in their heads right now. Tell them to jot the ideas down quickly and succinctly.

And then, at the end of five minutes, tell students to review their Brain Dump. These are all the ideas that they must now shelve to Think About Later. For some students, it may actually help to cross each idea out to reinforce this concept visually.

Once this is complete, have the Brain Dumps put aside, and students can begin to write.

Sentence Starters

Once students get going on writing a first draft, it can be helpful for them to have access to sentence starters and transitions they can utilize to move their essays forward. In our resource, we include handouts with all the various sentence starters below.

Check out our full resource for middle school essays .

Topic Sentence Starters

A topic sentence is the first sentence of a paragraph or essay. It informs the reader of the subject of the essay or the paragraph.

This essay discusses…
This essay explores…
This essay outlines…
This essay examines…
This essay analyzes…
This essay explains…
This essay evaluates…
This essay describes…
This essay illustrates…
In this essay we will discuss…
In this essay we will explore…
In this essay we will outline…
In this essay we will examine…
In this essay we will analyze…
In this essay we will explain…
In this essay we will evaluate…
In this essay we will describe…
In this essay we will illustrate…

Conclusion Sentence Starters

A conclusion sentence is a sentence where you make a final point by wrapping up or summarizing what you have been explaining to your reader.

In summary…
In brief…
Thus…
Ultimately…
As a result…
As I see it…
Accordingly…
Finally…
To review…
Hence…
Given these points…
Considering these facts…
Put simply…
In a nutshell…
Consequently…
Therefore…
In conclusion…
In short…
In general…
After all…
To reiterate…
In effect…
Essentially…
Undoubtedly…

Evidence Sentence Starters

An evidence sentence is a sentence where you support a claim or argument that you have made by providing evidence to your reader.

According to the text…
According to the author…
The text states…
The author states…
The study notes…
The study demonstrates…
The evidence shows…
An example can be seen…
This clearly shows…
Another reason…
I observed…
The research concluded…
The author describes…
One example of this…
According to the passage…
I think this because…
The graphic shows…
The statistics prove…
The illustration demonstrates…
This explains…
This demonstrates…
This confirms…
According to the research…
What the authors discovered…

Transition Sentence Starters: Contrast

When you contrast between two different ideas or pieces of evidence, you may want to use a transition sentence starter that cues your reader.

However…
Nevertheless…
On the one hand…
On the other hand…
Alternatively…
Apart from…
Contrarily…
Despite this…
Whereas…
Even so…
In spite of…

Transition Sentence Starters: Order

Many times you need to make distinct to your reader the the information you are giving them comes in a specific order.

Following…
First/firstly…
Second/secondly…
Third/thirdly…
At this time…
Previously…
Last/lastly…
Subsequently…
Before…
Next…
Above all…
Only then…

Reading Your Essay Aloud

Middle schoolers should be encouraged to read their essays aloud to a partner both during the writing process and once their drafts are finished. The ear is almost always a better editor than the eye, and the process of reading aloud often draws a student writer’s attention to problem areas they would have otherwise overlooked.

To make peer review a bit less laborious, we have students find different partners for each paragraph of their essays. This breaks the editing process up and ensures that students hear from a range of different editors.

Paragraph Cut Apart

Another fun (and visual) way to edit essays is to have students cut their paragraphs apart into their component sentences. Then give those cut-apart sentences to a partner and have the partner try and put the paragraph back together in the proper order.

This exercise is useful for both partners. It can reveal structural and transitional problems for the writer, and it is good practice for the partner who is trying to reconstruct the paragraph. Well-written paragraphs have a flow to them. Their ideas progress in a logical order. Identifying and understanding that order is something that requires practice.

1,029 Writing Prompts for Middle School

In addition to the middle school essay resources mentioned above, our Ultimate Guide also includes another resource we use regularly for bellringers and fun writing exercises: 1,029 Writing Prompts for Middle School.

This massive collection of writing prompts is perfect for short writing assignments but is also a goldmine for ideas for larger essays. It is broken down into 20 different prompt categories:

There are dozens upon dozens of prompts for each category. Some are serious and thoughtful. Others are comical and amusing. Many are designed to get students to reflect upon their own ideas and place in the world.

Our 1,029 Writing Prompts for Middle School can be used throughout the year and for every subject, with prompts that cover a wide array of topics and subject matter.

Interested in just the writing prompts guide? Check it out here .

Using ChatGPT in the Classroom

Many school districts and educators have taken a stand against ChatGPT and other AI programs. We have no problem with that. But we were also curious if ChatGPT could be used effectively in the modern classroom, and we set out to create an in-depth guide on how to use ChatGPT to enhance student writing.

Since ChatGPT is most effective in the planning and organizing of student essays, we have included this resource as well in our Ultimate Guide to Middle School Essays.

Our ChatGPT guide ( learn more about it here ) examines how AI can be used at every stage of the writing process: idea generation, outlining, writing topic sentences, editing, making citations, etc. But at each stage, our guide focuses on the thinking process that students must engage with if they are to use AI as something other than just a crutch.

The trick is to leverage AI in a way that keeps the critical analysis and thought process squarely with the student. And our guide provides a roadmap for how to do that.