Writing Conclusion Paragraphs

Remember this example of an introduction? It goes from the most broad sentence to the most specific.

Attention Getter

Bridge

Thesis

IntroductionParagraph

Conclusion

Paragraph

Thesis (reworded)

Main points(reworded)

Epiphany

STEP 1: Re-state your thesis

• Remind readers of the ARGUMENT you are attempting to prove with your paper.

• DO NOT simply copy the original sentence from your introduction—re-word your main idea!

Example: Harrison Bergeron proves to be truly heroic through his admirable actions and liberated attitude.

STEP 2: Summarize your main points

• Remind readers of your BEST points. Look to your body paragraphs for your best ideas.

• DO NOT simply re-copy these original sentences from your body paragraphs—re-word these ideas!

STEP 2: Summarize your main points

Example: Through rebelliously kissing the ballerina, flying through the air amid gun shots, and continually refusing to wear his handicaps, Harrison Bergeron masterfully defies the government. His self-declaration as the emperor undoubtedly makes his society aware of his impact as a hero.

STEP 3: The Epiphany• Think BIG PICTURE!

• What lesson(s) should readers be taking away from your paper and its argument?

• What moral does your paper illustrate?

• Does your paper connect to a universal truth or thematic idea?

STEP 3: The EpiphanyExample: Like the futuristic citizens, readers are easily inspired by Harrison’s fearless determination to right the wrongs of his dystopic society. As a result of examining Vonnegut’s text, readers can learn the importance of rising up and being a single voice of resistance.

Sample Conclusion ParagraphHarrison Bergeron proves to be truly

heroic through his admirable actions and liberated attitude. Through rebelliously kissing the ballerina, flying through the air amid gun shots, and continually refusing to wear his handicaps, Harrison Bergeron masterfully defies the government. His self-declaration as the emperor undoubtedly makes his society aware of his impact as a hero. Like the futuristic citizens, readers are easily inspired by Harrison’s fearless determination to right the wrongs of his dystopic society. As a result of examining Vonnegut’s text, readers can learn the importance of rising up and being a single voice of resistance.