This module focuses on the examples we use to explain our positions. In our previous modules, you practiced both using specific sensory details to convey an impression and selecting specific events to tell a story. In both cases you were using examples to illustrate a point and guide your reader to a conclusion. As we further explore academic writing, you will find that harnessing the power of such examples is the key to persuading audiences of the legitimacy of your perspective. Examples may be descriptions, narrations of short events, or facts from observation or research.

As we proceed, you will learn about writing essays that use examples to support a thesis, the statement that clearly expresses your perspective on a topic. You will see how writing clear, focused examples to support general statements helps interest or persuade readers. You will also evaluate the examples included in both professional and student writing. Finally, you will use these skills to write an example essay.

Module Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

1. Identify the characteristics of effective writing using examples.
2. Identify general and specific information and explain how these levels interrelate.
3. Identify emphatic order as an effective organization strategy for example writing.
4. Describe how authors use examples to make a point, given a model essay.
5. Compose an example essay using the steps of the writing process.
6. Use correct grammar, syntax, and diction in writing an example essay.