The Conclusion

1. The End The Conclusion Making Your Last Paragraph Count

2. A Conclusion Definition and Purpose The conclusion is the last paragraph in your essay. A conclusion completes the essay and connects back to your thesis statement. Look at the example below.

3. A Conclusion Thesis Statement A leader in the ending of segregation and an inspiring father, the legendary Jackie Robinson had many roles and responsibilities. First sentence in conclusion connects back to ideas in thesis statement. First Sentence of Conclusion Whether it was his family or the entire nation, Jackie Robinson was a respected figure.

4. A Conclusion So What? In addition to referring back to your main idea, your conclusion needs to show your reader the importance of your thesis. When discussing the importance of your thesis, try to address questions such as… • How and why is this topic important? • How might this topic affect me or other people? • What can be learned from this topic?

5. Sample Conclusion Connects back to thesis statement The writer points out how Robinson’s heroic actions helped change the world The writer reminds us that Robinson is a pioneer, then leaves us with a meaningful quote about a world of equality and justice Whether it was his family or the entire nation, Jackie Robinson was a respected figure. Both white and black admired and still do, appreciate his achievements. Hero to many, Robinson provided the first step, from the end of hate to the beginning of harmony. The world watched as this single pioneer led the crowd to a time where “everybody is equal and justice prevails.”

6. Let’s look at them side by side… Introductory Paragraph Concluding Paragraph Since that day the hardships continue. His life after his release continues to be tormented by unresolved charges and accusations. The Sheik has lost everything: his home, his employment, everything but his faith in God. But, at the end of the day, when all is said and done, and the judges, lawyers, and newspapers have all had their say, this truly courageous man sums it all up by saying Insha Allah. In English, this means whatever Allah (God) decides. • Courage is when you have the guts to do what you believe in, even when a lot is at stake. Courage is doing your part but knowing ultimately that all things are in God's hands. The person I chose to write this essay on has shown more courage than I've ever seen or, for that matter, expected. This is his story. Coming from a country that is riddled with violence and political corruption, he came to America, to him a new land, for a new life, and a fresh start, with his wife and first few children in tow. But his new life did not come without its challenges.

7. Other Strategies for Concluding an Essay Use A Quotation A relevant quotation can bring good closure to your essay, especially if the quotation is from an expert on the topic in your composition.

8. Other Strategies for Concluding an Essay Make A Prediction A prediction talks about what might happen in the future. A prediction can be a good way to finish your essay. It can make your reader think about the possible results of your thesis statement.

9. Other Strategies for Concluding an Essay A Recommendation or Call to Action A recommendation is often used by a writer after he/she has discussed a problem in an essay. A recommendation can be used to suggest a solution or call the readers to take action about the problem in the essay.

10. Now it’s your turn… • Directions: Now, write a conclusion paragraph for your essay. Share your conclusion paragraph with a partner. If the conclusion could be made stronger or more effective, discuss the questions below with your partner. • Does the conclusion remind the reader of the thesis statement? • Does the conclusion seem to be smoothly linked to the rest of the essay? • What message or feeling is the reader left with, based on the conclusion? • What techniques could help the conclusion be stronger?