The Block Method on Writing an Essay
Therese rochon.
There are many ways of organizing a comparison and contrast essay. One of the most popular is the block method, also known as the summary approach or the one side at a time approach. The writer provides an introduction stating the comparisons, the contrasts and the thesis statement. Then, the writer provides body paragraphs detailing the similarities and another body paragraphs explaining the differences. Following the body paragraphs is a conclusion that paraphrases the essay and the thesis statement.
Explore this article
- Doing the Block Method
- Brainstorming
- Ensuring Unity
- Other Methods
1 Doing the Block Method
The block method works best on short papers about simple topics. To do the block method, first write an introduction. In the introduction, draw the reader’s attention, give background information, state the two things being compared and contrasted, and provide a thesis statement. Using the introduction as a blueprint, write paragraphs about the comparisons. Then, write paragraphs about the differences. After completing all body paragraphs, write a conclusion that ties in all your points and restates your thesis. In addition to comparison and contrast essays, you can use the block method in essays weighing disadvantages and advantages.
2 Brainstorming
If you are planning to write an essay in the block format, you must first brainstorm for ideas. The most common method for a comparison and contrast is a Venn diagram. To do a Venn diagram, draw two big circles that overlap in the middle. In the circle on the left, write the unique features of side A. In the circle on the right, write the unique features of side B. In the middle, the place of overlap, write the similar features of sides A and B.
Other brainstorming methods are simply listing all the thoughts that come to mind with little attention paid to organization. Another, more organized, brainstorming method is arranging ideas into clusters.
While brainstorming, do not censor yourself. Get something down on paper as quickly as possible.
3 Ensuring Unity
Although essays written in block format can be well written and effective, the biggest hurdle is disunity. You never want to jump from point to point. To avoid disunity, use transitional phrases, such as “in addition,” “furthermore,” “moreover,” “in contrast,” “similarly,” “however,” and “nevertheless” from paragraph to paragraph. Another way to transition is by linking ideas. For example, briefly mention the very last idea from a previous paragraph in the first few sentences of the next paragraph.
4 Other Methods
The block method is not the only way of writing a comparison and contrast essay. In the point-by-point method, each paragraph gives a point (or idea) and its similarities and contrasts. In the combination method, you combine the point-by-point method with the block method.
- 1 Comparison and Contrast Essays
- 2 How do I Write a Comparison and Contrast Essay
About the Author
Therese Rochon is a college student and freelance writer from St. Louis. She is studying English and Spanish literature at Washington University and plans to attend law school in the future. She speaks two languages and, in 2011, will au pair in Europe to learn two more languages. She has been writing online since 2005.
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Crafting Essays: How to Write a Block Essay
My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.
Crafting Essays: How to Write a Block Essay – Unlocking the Key to Seamless Writing
Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting to explore the world of essay composition, one thing remains consistent: the dreaded writer’s block can strike at any time. As you sit down to write a thought-provoking essay , your mind falls into a seemingly impenetrable abyss, leaving you staring blankly at a blinking cursor. Fear not, for in this article we will delve into the art of crafting block essays, unlocking the secrets to transforming your words into a seamless and engaging masterpiece. So, grab your pen and paper (or your trusty keyboard) as we embark on a journey to unravel the mysteries of the block essay and discover the joy of effortless writing.
– Understanding the Basics: What is a Block Essay and How Does it Differ?
– choosing a suitable topic: examining the key considerations, - structuring your block essay: a step-by-step guide to coherence and flow, - craftsmanship at its best: tips for writing convincing block essay introductions, – mastering the art of comparison: strategies for effective block essay body paragraphs, mastering the art of comparison: strategies for effective block essay body paragraphs, fine-tuning your block essay: crafting a conclusion that leaves an impression, – polishing your gem: proofreading and editing techniques for flawless block essays, frequently asked questions, in retrospect.
A block essay is a unique type of essay structure that differs from the traditional format in several ways. In a block essay, the content is divided into distinct sections or blocks, each covering a specific aspect or topic related to the main theme. Unlike traditional essays, where paragraphs are used to present arguments or evidence, a block essay organizes information into separate blocks, creating a visually distinct and easily comprehensible format.
One of the key differences of a block essay is the use of headings or subheadings to introduce each block. These headings provide a clear indication of the content that will follow and help readers navigate through the essay effortlessly. Additionally, within each block, information is presented in a focused manner, with each paragraph discussing a different aspect of the topic. This enables readers to quickly grasp the main ideas without feeling overwhelmed by dense paragraphs.
Another notable characteristic of a block essay is the use of white space, which enhances readability. By leaving space between the blocks, the essay becomes visually balanced and appealing to the reader. Moreover, a block essay often incorporates visual aids, such as images or charts, to further enhance understanding and engagement. These visual elements not only break up the text but also provide additional context or evidence that supports the main points being discussed. Overall, the block essay format offers an alternative way of presenting information, making it easier to digest and comprehend the content at a glance.
When it comes to choosing a suitable topic, there are several key considerations that one should keep in mind. These factors play a crucial role in ensuring that your selected topic is engaging, relevant, and captivating for both you as the writer and your target audience. Let’s delve into some of the most important considerations:
Choosing a topic you are passionate about is essential. When you genuinely care about the subject matter, it will reflect in your writing and captivate your audience. Your enthusiasm will shine through, making the entire writing process more enjoyable and rewarding.
Consider the relevance of the topic in relation to your target audience. Will it resonate with their interests or needs? Is it a trending or popular subject? Conducting some research and understanding your readership’s preferences will help you select a relevant and engaging topic that holds their attention.
Assess the scope of the topic you’re considering. Is it too broad or too narrow? Striking the right balance is crucial to ensure that you can cover the subject matter adequately without overwhelming yourself or your audience.
By carefully considering these key factors, you will be well on your way to choosing a suitable topic that not only ignites your passion but also resonates with your target audience. Remember, a well-chosen topic forms the foundation for a successful and impactful piece of writing!
Structuring Your Block Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide to Coherence and Flow
Creating a well-structured and coherent essay is essential for effectively conveying your ideas and arguments. By following a step-by-step approach, you can ensure that your block essay flows seamlessly and captivates your reader. Here are some useful tips to help you structure your essay with clarity and enhance its overall coherence.
1. Begin with a Clear Introduction: Start by introducing your topic and providing a thesis statement that states your main argument. Make sure to grab your reader’s attention with a compelling opening sentence or anecdote.
2. Divide your Essay into Blocks: In block essays, you present all the information about one topic in a single block, followed by another block for the next topic. This organization allows for a more structured and focused essay, making it easier for your reader to comprehend and follow your arguments. Use HTML formatting to visually separate your blocks, providing clear headings and subheadings that indicate the subject of each block.
3. Develop Strong Paragraphs: Within each block, begin with a topic sentence that clearly states the main idea of that specific section. Follow with supporting details, evidence, or examples that strengthen your argument. Use unnumbered lists to highlight key points or to group related information. Additionally, incorporate transition words like “furthermore,” “meanwhile,” or “on the other hand” to smoothly connect ideas and ensure a cohesive flow.
4. Conclude with a Solid Conclusion: End your block essay with a strong conclusion that sums up your main points and restates your thesis statement. Emphasize the significance of your argument and its implications in a concise and thought-provoking manner . Bold key phrases or statements that you want to highlight to make your conclusion more memorable.
Crafting a strong and convincing block essay introduction is vital to capturing your readers’ attention from the very beginning. With these tips, you’ll be able to showcase your writing prowess and engage your audience, ensuring a compelling start to your essay.
1. **Set the stage:** Begin your introduction by providing some context or background information on the topic. This can help your readers understand the relevance and importance of the subject matter. Consider including an interesting fact, a thought-provoking question , or a brief anecdote to pique their curiosity and make them eager to read further.
2. **State your thesis:** Clearly articulate your main argument or position in a concise and compelling manner. Your thesis statement should be the backbone of your essay and serve as a preview of the ideas you will explore in the subsequent paragraphs. Ensure that it is well-defined, specific, and debatable, as this will further engage your readers and encourage them to delve deeper into your essay.
3. **Present the scope of your essay:** Give your readers an overview of what they can expect from your essay. Outline the main points or arguments you will be discussing, providing a roadmap that guides them through the rest of your work. This helps create a sense of structure and organization, making it easier for your readers to follow along and comprehend your points effectively.
When it comes to writing block essay body paragraphs, mastering the art of comparison is essential. This skill allows you to effectively analyze and contrast two or more subjects, providing a balanced and organized essay. To help you enhance your writing, we have compiled a list of strategies that will take your block essay body paragraphs to the next level.
1. Thoroughly research and understand your subjects: Before diving into your writing, it is crucial to have a solid understanding of the subjects you are comparing. Research extensively to gather enough information and insights, enabling you to make accurate and informed comparisons.
2. Organize your thoughts with a clear structure: Structure plays a significant role in generating well-crafted block essay body paragraphs. Start by establishing a clear thesis statement that sets the context for your comparison. Then, organize your paragraphs by focusing on one aspect of the subjects at a time, presenting similarities and differences side by side for a comprehensive analysis.
- Fine-Tuning Your Block Essay: Crafting a Conclusion that Leaves an Impression
As you approach the end of your block essay, it is crucial to remember that the conclusion is your final opportunity to make a lasting impression on your reader. The conclusion serves as a powerful summary of your main points, so it’s important to craft it with utmost care. Here are some tips to help you create a compelling conclusion that will leave your audience impressed:
- Revisit your thesis: Start by restating your thesis statement in a concise and impactful manner. Remind your reader of the main argument you presented and its significance.
- Summarize main points: Summarize the key points you made throughout your essay. This will reinforce the ideas you’ve conveyed and provide a sense of closure to your reader.
- Leave a lasting thought: End your conclusion with a thought-provoking statement or a call to action related to your topic. This will leave your reader contemplating the subject matter long after they’ve finished reading.
Remember, your conclusion is your final chance to create a lasting impact on your reader, so make it count. By revisiting your thesis, summarizing your main points, and leaving a lasting thought, you can ensure that your block essay will end on a high note, leaving an indelible impression on your audience.
In order to ensure your block essays truly shine, it is crucial to dedicate time and effort to proofreading and editing. These essential techniques will help you eliminate errors, enhance your writing style, and deliver a flawless essay. Here are some valuable tips to polish your gem and take your block essays to the next level:
1. Take a break: After finishing your essay, step away from it for a while. This will allow you to approach your work with fresh eyes and a clear mind.
2. Read aloud: Read your essay out loud to yourself or to someone else. This technique will help you identify awkward sentences, clarify your thoughts, and catch any missed or repeated words.
3. Keep an eye on punctuation: Be sure to check your punctuation marks, including commas, periods, and quotation marks. Consistent and correct punctuation will greatly improve the overall flow and readability of your essay.
4. Focus on grammar: Pay attention to grammar rules and ensure that your tenses, subject-verb agreement, and pronoun usage are accurate. Consider using grammar-checking tools to assist you in this process.
5. Check for coherence: Look for logical connections between your paragraphs and sentences. Ensure that your ideas flow smoothly and that there are no abrupt transitions. Connectives, such as “however,” ”thus,” or “in addition,” can help strengthen the coherence of your essay.
6. Verify your sources: If you have included references, double-check that all your citations are accurate and properly formatted. This will lend credibility to your work and demonstrate your research skills.
Remember, the best block essays are the result of careful proofreading and editing. Implement these techniques to ensure your ideas are well-expressed, your arguments are clear and concise, and your essay captivates your readers. So get ready to refine your work into a true masterpiece!
Q: What is a block essay? A: A block essay is a type of essay structure that presents all the information about one subject first, and then discusses the other subject separately. It presents a straightforward comparison without intertwining the two subjects.
Q: Why would someone choose to write a block essay? A: Writing a block essay can be useful when you want to compare two subjects that are quite distinct and have little in common. It allows for a clear, side-by-side comparison, making it easier for the reader to understand the differences and similarities between the two subjects.
Q: How do I start writing a block essay? A: To begin, you should choose two subjects that you want to compare and contrast. Then, brainstorm the key points or characteristics of each subject that you will discuss in your essay. Once you have a solid understanding of both subjects, you can start outlining your essay.
Q: What should the structure of a block essay look like? A: A block essay generally has an introduction paragraph where you provide some background information and your thesis statement. This is followed by two or more paragraphs dedicated to one subject, presenting its key points and evidence. Afterward, there will be another set of paragraphs dedicated to the second subject. Finally, a conclusion paragraph wraps up the comparison by summarizing the main points and restating the thesis.
Q: Is there a specific order in which I should discuss the subjects? A: No, the order of subjects in a block essay is generally a matter of personal preference. Some choose to discuss the subject they feel more passionate about first, while others might opt for the subject that they believe will create a more impactful ending. Just make sure to maintain the same order throughout the essay for clarity.
Q: How can I make my block essay cohesive? A: To ensure a cohesive essay, use transitional phrases or sentences at the start of each new paragraph to guide the reader through your comparison. Additionally, make explicit connections between the subjects in your writing, highlighting similar or contrasting aspects. This will help the reader to comprehend your essay more easily.
Q: Can I use sources and references in a block essay? A: Absolutely! Including reputable sources and references will add credibility and depth to your essay. When using sources, be sure to properly cite them according to the appropriate citation style (e.g., MLA, APA) to avoid plagiarism.
Q: Are there any common mistakes to avoid when writing a block essay? A: One common mistake is the failure to provide a balanced comparison. Be sure to allocate an equal amount of space and attention to both subjects, so neither feels favored or neglected. Additionally, make sure your essay remains focused on the comparison and doesn’t drift into unrelated topics.
Q: What is the key to writing a successful block essay? A: The key to a successful block essay lies in thorough preparation, clear organization, and effective comparison. Take the time to fully understand the subjects you are comparing, maintain a logical structure, and provide strong evidence for your points. By doing so, you will create a well-crafted essay that engages and informs your readers.
In conclusion, mastering the art of crafting block essays is crucial for effectively conveying ideas and structuring arguments.
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Module 6: The Writing Process
Common essay structures, learning objectives.
- Examine the structure and organization of common types of essays
Suggested Essay Structure
What are we talking about when we talk about essay structures ? Depending on the assignment, you will need to utilize different ways to organize your essays. Some common layouts for essay organization are listed below, and if you are ever confused on which structure you should use for your assignment, ask your teacher for help.
Argumentative Essay
In an argumentative essay, you are asked to take a stance about an issue. One effective way to argue a point can be to present the opposing view first, usually in your introduction paragraph, then counter this view with stronger evidence in your essay. You can also explain your argument and claims, then address the opposing view at the end of your paper, or you could address opposing views one at a time, including the rebuttal throughout your paper.
Argumentative Essay: Block Format
- provides background information on topic
- states of your position on the topic (thesis)
- summarizes arguments
- Topic sentence outlining first claim
- Sentences giving explanations and providing evidence to support topic sentence
- Concluding sentence – link to next paragraph
- Topic sentence outlining second claim
- Sentences giving explanations and providing evidence to back topic sentence
- Topic sentence outlining any possible counterarguments
- Provide evidence to refute counterarguments
- Summary of the main points of the body
- Restatement of the position
Argumentative Essay: Rebuttal Throughout
This type of format works well for topics that have obvious pros and cons.
- Introduction and Thesis
- Topic sentence outlining first rebuttal
- Opposing Viewpoint
- Statistics and facts to support your side
- Summary of the main arguments and counterarguments
The Comparative Essay
Comparative essays compare , compare and contrast , or differentiate between things and concepts. In this structure, the similarities and/or differences between two or more items (for example, theories or models) are discussed paragraph by paragraph. Your assignment task may require you to make a recommendation about the suitability of the items you are comparing.
There are two basic formats for the compare/contrast essay: block or point-by-point. Block divides the essay in half with the first set of paragraphs covering one item, the other set of paragraphs covering the other item. Let’s take a look at an example about cameras. If the writer is contrasting a Nikon DSLR camera with a similar priced Canon DSLR camera, the first set of paragraphs would cover Nikon and the next set would cover Canon. In point-by-point, the writer would cover the two items alternating in each point of comparison (see examples in outlines below).
Comparative Essay: Block Method
- Introduction and thesis
- Image Quality
- Shutter Speed
- The Auto-focus System
Comparative Essay: Point-by-Point Method
- Introduction
- Nikon D7000
Cause and Effect Essay
Examples of cause and effect essays include questions that ask you to state or investigate the effects or outline the causes of the topic. This may be, for example, a historical event, the implementation of a policy, a medical condition, or a natural disaster. These essays may be structured in one of two ways: either the causes(s) of a situation may be discussed first followed by the effect(s), or the effect(s) could come first with the discussion working back to outline the cause(s). Sometimes with cause and effect essays, you are required to give an assessment of the overall effects of an event on a community, a workplace, an individual.
Cause and Effect Essay Format
- Background information on the situation under discussion
- Description of the situation
- Overview of the causes or effects to be outlined
- Topic sentence outlining first cause or effect
- Sentences giving explanations and providing evidence to support the topic sentence
- Concluding sentence – linking to the next paragraph
- Topic sentence outlining second cause or effect
- These follow the same structure for as many causes or effects as you need to outline
- Conclusion, prediction or recommendation
Mixed Structure Assignment
Finally, consider that some essay assignments may ask you to combine approaches. You will rarely follow the above outlines with exactness, but can use the outlines and templates of common rhetorical patterns to help shape your essay. Remember that the ultimate goal is to construct a smooth and coherent message with information that flows nicely from one paragraph to the next.
There are several different styles to choose from when constructing a mixed-structure essay. The table below gives an idea of what different roles paragraphs can play in a mixed-structure essay assignment.
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There are two main ways of structuring a compare-and-contrast essay: the alternating method, and the block method. Alternating In the alternating method, each paragraph compares your subjects in terms of a specific point of comparison.
The block method works best on short papers about simple topics. To do the block method, first write an introduction. In the introduction, draw the reader’s attention, give background information, state the two things being compared and contrasted, and provide a thesis statement.
1. Block Method. 2. Point-by-Point Method. Organizing a Compare-Contrast Essay. If you are asked to write a compare-contrast essay, use the following structure: Compare-Contrast Essay Structure. When should you use Block vs. Point-by-Point Method? As a general rule, use block method for paragraphs, such as a discussion board post.
Comparisons in essays are generally structured in one of two ways: The alternating method, where you compare your subjects side by side according to one specific aspect at a time. The block method, where you cover each subject separately in its entirety.
A block essay is a unique type of essay structure that differs from the traditional format in several ways. In a block essay, the content is divided into distinct sections or blocks, each covering a specific aspect or topic related to the main theme.
Basic essay structure: the 3 main parts of an essay. Almost every single essay that’s ever been written follows the same basic structure: Introduction. Body paragraphs. Conclusion. This structure has stood the test of time for one simple reason: It works.
There are two basic formats for the compare/contrast essay: block or point-by-point. Block divides the essay in half with the first set of paragraphs covering one item, the other set of paragraphs covering the other item.