The ingredients to a perfect essay
No matter what structure you use, in order to get an A/B in this essay, you will need to include these:
1) Introduction/abstract
2) Definition of key terms, including current issues and debates surrounding them
3) Detailed textual analysis of primary research
4) Use of secondary research to elaborate on point made
5) A definite argument, that is clearly established initially and referred back to throughout the body of the essay
Structuring an academic essay
This advice is general. It can be used for other media essays, the MS4 exam and even other subjects.
Introduction
- Your introduction needs to introduce the topic (context) and outline your thesis – what is your argument? How will the essay be structured? You need to answer the question right from the beginning.
- Write in an authoritative manner – your essay should be convincing. Rather than 'I think that...', you could write: 'This essay will argue that [...]'
Definition ArgumentContext
DAC
Definition – what key terms and theories are you going to be discussing? Define them!
Argument – What is it that you’re going to be arguing? Set it out now, so the examiner knows exactly what it is you are talking about!
Context – what are the texts that you’re going to be writing about? Give a brief overview
PEA
Discussion:
Point (this will often take the form of a theory) Evidence: Back up every point with solid evidence. This will stop you from making unsupported generalisations. In this instance, your evidence comes from primary research!
Argument: This is where you go back to the question and relate your point to your argument. Explain your evidence and show why it is important – be analytical not just descriptive. Use secondary research, for example references to books back up your argument!
Conclusion:
- The conclusion should adequately sum up your argument.
- Do not try to bring any new points into the conclusion, it should be bringing together all paragraphs and briefly listing your main points, and end with a final reflection.
Variations
This is just one suggestion of how to write an academic essay. Though we have seen it work again and again, it might not be the best structure for you!
You might prefer PEE, PEEL, PEC, PEAL or any variation. The important thing to remember is that structure leads to sophistication and clarity.
Suggestion of theories to help
Gauntlett –Collective Identity (rep)
Mulvey – The heterosexual male gaze (rep)
Baudrillard – Hyper-reality (rep)
Dyer – Stereotypes (rep)
Hebdige – representation of groups – Sub Culture (rep)
Levi Strauss – binary oppositions (rep and narrative)
Neale –repetition and difference (genre)
Bourdieu – cultural capital
TOP TIPS
1) Put the references to visual and technical codes in your essay in bold. For example “in the video to Wrecking Ball (2013), Richardson predominantly utilises mid shots to emphasise the relationship between the performer and the setting. Furthermore, the extensive use of slow motion editing simultaneously emphasises not only the destruction of the setting, but also the nudity of Cyrus.”
2) Make sure each and every paragraph has one specific point. If you’re going off on a tangent, you can simply move the point to another paragraph!
3) Ensure you use the conventions of academic essays. Consistently use the Harvard referencing system. Make sure every song title is in italics. Make reference to when each song/album/video was released. These little things show excellent research skills through consistency.
4) As soon as you find something, copy/paste the link/title of the book in to Refme. This resource will save you so much time!