Unit 8 Writing an Explanatory Essay Portfolio
**Note: The title of Connexus lessons is “argumentative” but essay is explanatory
No Red Ink Guided Draft LINK
Due Date:
“Eureka” MCAS Essay- “Eureka” by Ken Chowder
Prompt: Based on the article, explain what Louis Pasteur meant when he said, “Chance favors only the prepared mind.” Support your answer with relevant and specific information from the article.
Criteria For Success for Organizer:
I made sure that…
I read my essay aloud to check for errors in wording and punctuation
I have a thesis statement that begins my essay and clearly identifies my claim
I included at least 3 pieces of evidence in each body paragraph that are Introduced, Incorporated, and Explained (See IICE)
I have written a well format paragraph style essay using MLA format
I have provided logical explanation
I used proper punctuation and grammar
I have reviewed the Argumentative Essay Rubric Unit 8 Portfolio Rubric
I included a CMW link, directions at the bottom of the page
Use the outline below as a guide when writing your essay:
Open a blank document and title it with your name and Unit 8 Argumentative Essay
Read the directions for the first sentence of your essay (lowercase letters on outline).
Write the sentence(s) on your document
Repeat until you are done!
Make sure to indent each new paragraph
Proofread and edit using the checklist above
Introduction
Hook (1-2 Sentences):What is a question, piece of information, or statement that will capture the reader’s attention? What captured your attention while reading the passage?
What is the title and who is the author of the passage?
What is the main idea or focus of the passage? Background information: 2-3 sentence summary. What are the main points of the passage?
Thesis statement (main point of essay)
What is your claim and your 3 reasons? (Your claim is the answer to the essay prompt or what you are going to argue throughout your essay)
Need help? Use the thesis statement tutorial linked here
Body Paragraph 1
Main idea/ reason #1 from thesis
Evidence 1- quote, paraphrased or summarized information from article
Explanation of how it supports main idea/reason
Evidence 2
Explanation
Detail 3
Explanation
Concluding Sentence- wraps up body paragraph 1 and leads into body paragraph 2
Body Paragraph 2
Main idea/ reason #2 from thesis
Evidence- quote, paraphrased or summarized information from article
Explanation of how it supports main idea/reason
Evidence
Explanation
Evidence
Explanation
Concluding Sentence- wraps up body paragraph 2 and leads into body paragraph 3
Body Paragraph 3
Main idea/ reason #3 from thesis
Evidence 1- quote, paraphrased or summarized information from article
Explanation of how it supports main idea/reason
Evidence 2
Explanation
Detail 3
Explanation
Concluding Sentence- wrap up body paragraph 3
Conclusion
Summarize the main ideas of your 3 body paragraphs
1 sentence summary of the main idea of each paragraph
Hint: read each body paragraph again and then write a 1 sentence summary
How can you restate or summarize the thesis or claim in a different way?
Leave readers with an interesting thought / ”call to action”
After they finish reading your paper, what do you want readers to think about or consider?
Introduction:
Louis Pasteur once said, "Chance favors only the prepared mind." In the article "Eureka" by Ken Chowder, the concept behind this quote is explained. The passage explores the idea that success is not solely dependent on luck, but rather on the preparedness and knowledge of an individual. This notion is applicable not only in the field of science, but in all aspects of life. With proper preparation, one is able to seize opportunities and turn them into triumphs. Understanding what Pasteur meant by this statement is crucial in recognizing the importance of being prepared in order to succeed.
Body Paragraph 1:
One reason Louis Pasteur emphasized the significance of a prepared mind is that preparation allows individuals to recognize and make use of opportunities. As the article states, Pasteur's discovery of the vaccine for rabies did not happen by mere chance. He was already knowledgeable in the field of microbiology and had extensively studied various diseases. This prior knowledge equipped him to identify the potential significance of certain observations and continue his investigations. Without the foundation of knowledge, Pasteur would not have been able to recognize the opportunity to develop a vaccine for rabies. In this way, the prepared mind is able to seize opportunities that might otherwise be overlooked.
Body Paragraph 2:
Another reason behind Pasteur's statement is that being prepared increases the likelihood of success. The article highlights how Pasteur's extensive research and experiments allowed him to develop the vaccine for rabies. His preparation and dedication to understanding the disease ultimately led to a breakthrough. This demonstrates that success is not arbitrary, but rather the result of deliberate effort and thorough preparation. Prepared individuals are better equipped to tackle challenges and find solutions, leading to successful outcomes. By investing time and effort into acquiring knowledge and skills, individuals increase their chances of achieving their goals.
Body Paragraph 3:
Furthermore, a prepared mind is able to adapt and overcome obstacles. The article discusses how Pasteur faced many setbacks and challenges throughout his career, but his preparedness allowed him to find alternative paths to success. For instance, when his first attempt at creating a vaccine for anthrax failed, he did not give up. Instead, he used his knowledge and experience to revise his methods and ultimately develop an effective vaccine. This demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of a prepared mind. In the face of adversity, prepared individuals are able to think creatively and find alternative solutions, ensuring their success.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Louis Pasteur's statement, "Chance favors only the prepared mind," emphasizes the importance of being prepared in order to succeed. Through the article "Eureka," it becomes evident that preparation allows individuals to recognize and make use of opportunities, increases the likelihood of success, and enables them to adapt and overcome obstacles. Success is not a result of luck, but rather the result of meticulous preparation and knowledge. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to constantly strive for knowledge and preparedness in order to maximize their chances of success.
(CMW) To submit your Unit 8 Portfolio to your teacher as a formal essay, you will need to create a Word document with your essay. Then, you will submit it through the assignment page in Connexus. This will involve clicking on the attach file icon that looks like a paperclip, and then selecting your document from your computer files. Make sure to follow any specific instructions your teacher has given you.