How To Write a Concept Paper
ASSIGNMENT PAPER 3: Explaining a Concept Paper (The St. Martin’s Guide to Writing, chapter 4)
“Write an essay about a concept that interests you and that you want to study further. When you have a good understanding of the concept, explain it to your readers, considering carefully what they already know about it and how your essay might add to what they know.” (167) “Concept explanations inform a reader about processes, phenomena, theories, principles, or ideas.” (136)
Basic features (164-165)
• A focused concept. When the writer focuses on a particular aspect of a larger concept, the topic is neither too broad nor too narrow.
• The topic appeals to the reader with new and interesting information. The reader can be both informed and engaged by lively writing and vivid detail.
• A logical plan. The writer clearly cues the reader by strategies such as a forecasting statement, transitions, and/or summaries.
• Clear definitions. Key terms associated with the concept are defined.
• Careful use of sources. Although the writer may use her/his own experience and observation, expert sources will lend authority to the essay. Sources must be used and documented in an appropriate standard format.
Assessment. The teacher may consider the following when assessing a concept essay:
• Purpose and audience: Does the writing meet the assignment requirements and engage the audience?
• Idea development: Is the topic appropriate, neither too broad nor too narrow?
Does the topic appeal to the reader with new and interesting information? Is there sufficient information so readers’ questions are answered? Is the concept clearly and fully defined? Are any other key terms defined?
• Organization: Does the title capture the central focus? Does the introduction capture attention, convey the topic and include a thesis? Is forecasting, if used, effective and clear? Do transitions and the overall organizational pattern provide a smooth flow? Does the conclusion provide
“Write an essay about a concept that interests you and that you want to study further. When you have a good understanding of the concept, explain it to your readers, considering carefully what they already know about it and how your essay might add to what they know.” (167) “Concept explanations inform a reader about processes, phenomena, theories, principles, or ideas.” (136)
Basic features (164-165)
• A focused concept. When the writer focuses on a particular aspect of a larger concept, the topic is neither too broad nor too narrow.
• The topic appeals to the reader with new and interesting information. The reader can be both informed and engaged by lively writing and vivid detail.
• A logical plan. The writer clearly cues the reader by strategies such as a forecasting statement, transitions, and/or summaries.
• Clear definitions. Key terms associated with the concept are defined.
• Careful use of sources. Although the writer may use her/his own experience and observation, expert sources will lend authority to the essay. Sources must be used and documented in an appropriate standard format.
Assessment. The teacher may consider the following when assessing a concept essay:
• Purpose and audience: Does the writing meet the assignment requirements and engage the audience?
• Idea development: Is the topic appropriate, neither too broad nor too narrow?
Does the topic appeal to the reader with new and interesting information? Is there sufficient information so readers’ questions are answered? Is the concept clearly and fully defined? Are any other key terms defined?
• Organization: Does the title capture the central focus? Does the introduction capture attention, convey the topic and include a thesis? Is forecasting, if used, effective and clear? Do transitions and the overall organizational pattern provide a smooth flow? Does the conclusion provide