THE CONCLUDING PARAGRAPH
The final paragraph is the conclusion, a very important part of the essay. In this paragraph you tell the reader that you have completed the essay. This is achieved by either writing a summary of the main points discussed in the body of the essay or by rewriting the thesis statement in different words. Then you add your final comments on the subject – food for thought. Since this is your last opportunity to make your point, you should write a strong, effective message that will be remembered.
The
concluding paragraph consists of:
1.
a summary of the main points
2.
a restatement of your thesis in different words
3.
your final comment on the subject
Note: Introduce the concluding paragraph with a transition signal.
Study the introduction and conclusion for the following model essay on the advantages and disadvantages of living in the twentieth century. Is the concluding paragraph a summary of the main points of the essay or is it a paraphrase of the thesis statement? Is there a final message for the reader?
Model 2: The concluding paragraph
Introduction
A person born in the twentieth century has seen many changes take place in almost all areas of human life. Some people are excited by the challenges that these changes offer; others want to return to the simpler, less automated life style of the past. Living in the twentieth century has certain advantages, such as a higher standard of living, but it also has some disadvantages such as a polluted environment, the depersonalization of human relationships, and the weakening of spiritual values.
Conclusion
In
conclusion, although the twentieth century has indeed given us a lot of
advantages by making us richer, healthier and freer to enjoy our lives, it has,
in my opinion, not made us wiser. The
twentieth century has also made our Earth dirtier, our people less humane, and
our spiritual lives poorer. We
should continue to enjoy the benefits of technological advancements because they
free us to pursue our interests and goals.
However, we must make a concerted effort to preserve our natural
environment for future generations. Moreover,
we should take the time now to make our lives more meaningful in an increasingly
impersonal, mechanized world.
Writing Concluding Paragraphs.
A. Write concluding paragraph for the following introduction.
STEP 1 Summarize the main points or paraphrase the thesis statement.
STEP 2 Add your own comments as a final message to the reader.
Paragraph 1
The busy schedules that most Americans face from day to day have created a rising health problem in the United States. Stress affects almost everyone, from the highly pressured executive to the busy homemaker or student. It can cause a variety of physical disorders, ranging from headaches to stomach ulcers and even alcoholism. Stress is not a problem that can be cured like a common cold; however, it can be controlled. A person can learn to control stress by setting realistic goals, enjoying a hobby and/or physical exercise, and by maintaining a good, warm relationship with family and friends.
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