At English Mastery we focus on practical strategies that you can implement in English Test Essays.

1) Be wary of long introductions. State your thesis followed by your sub-thesis and introduce your texts.

2) For example “Our sense of Belonging can change” Do you agree? Discuss this statement in the context of your study of the concept of belonging. (2009 Barker Trials)

First....start off with something clear and indisputable as a platform.

“There is little doubt that our sense of belonging can change”..............then qualify it;

“however in the texts under study the sense of belonging can also sometimes remain the same. “
(Remember it is the essays that can embrace a number of perspectives that can ease themselves into the top bracket. )

3) Once your thesis is there you can afford to mention your sub-thesis....you should have thought about it of course.

Here is mine....
“Human experience incorporates tension between the need to belong, a fear of exclusion and the need to assert one’s individuality” Add it in!

Then go on to talk about your individual texts.

Remember to revisit your thesis and sub-thesis as your essay unfolds. You must of course link back to both thesis and sub-thesis for top marks.

That is today’s tip. Come back for more soon.

All the best with your study for assessments and the half-yearlies, whichever comes first! :)

Warmest Regards

Dr Jonathan Hardy

0402 825 824

17 February 2010