Structured Essay Writing

Curriculum Area and Level

NZ English Curriculum – NCEA Level 1

• Key Competencies: Thinking, Using Language, Symbols, and Texts
• Achievement Standard: Writing structured texts using the TEXAS paragraph framework
• Context: Writing an essay on Polyfest
• Objective: Students will learn to craft structured paragraphs using TEXAS and draft a Statement of Intent before writing their essay.

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Lesson Plan – 45 Minutes

1. Introduction (5 minutes)

• Engage: Start with a short discussion: “What do you know about Polyfest?”

  • Encourage students to share experiences (if any) of attending Polyfest.
  • Highlight the cultural diversity and significance of the event in New Zealand.

• Lesson Goal:
  “By the end of this lesson, you will be able to structure your essay using the TEXAS method and craft a concise Statement of Intent.”

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2. The Statement of Intent (10 minutes)

• Definition & Purpose:

  • A Statement of Intent is a brief plan outlining what the essay will discuss.
  • Helps keep writing focused and relevant to the topic.

• Activity:

  • Provide students with this Statement of Intent template and have them fill in the blanks:
    "In this essay, I will discuss _______. I will explain _______ and provide examples of _______ to support my ideas."
  • Students pair up and read each other’s statements for clarity and feedback.

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3. Understanding TEXAS Paragraphs (15 minutes)

Break down the TEXAS structure:

• T - Topic Sentence: Introduce the main idea of the paragraph. (E.g., “Polyfest showcases the cultural diversity of New Zealand.”)
• E - Explanation: Expand on the topic. (Why is this important?)
• X - eXample / Evidence: Provide an example (fact, quotation, observation).
• A - Analysis: Explain how/why the example supports your argument.
• S - Summary Sentence: Sum up the key point and transition smoothly to the next idea.

Activity:

• Provide an example paragraph and break it down together.
• Have students write their own TEXAS-style paragraph on one aspect of Polyfest (e.g., cultural significance, performances, or community impact).

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4. Draft and Discussion (10 minutes)

• Students draft at least one full TEXAS-based paragraph for their essay on Polyfest.
• Feedback Rotation: Each student reads their paragraph to a partner who gives constructive feedback using these prompts:
  • Is the topic sentence clear?
  • Does the example support the point?
  • Does the analysis connect back to the main idea?

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5. Reflection and Exit Task (5 minutes)

• Each student writes one key takeaway from today’s lesson and shares it verbally.
• Teacher wraps up: "Next Lesson – Expanding Our Essays into a Full Structure.”

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Assessment & Homework

• Students refine their statement of intent & first paragraph at home.
• Next lesson: Structuring full essays using multiple TEXAS paragraphs.

Wow Factor Element!

• Play a short, engaging video clip showcasing Polyfest performances next lesson to reinforce real-world connections.

This plan aligns with NZ Curriculum standards and embeds critical thinking and structured writing skills in a localised, relevant context! 🚀