ESSAY PLAN Example essay plan Para 1: Introduction Approximately 150–200 words. Not too many details, but make sure you: (1) Include a thesis statement – take a position in relation to the question (but don’t go into detail yet – that’s what the subsequent paragraphs are for). (2) Introduce the essay structure – ‘signpost’ what is ahead (in other words, the introduction introduces the essay, as well as the topic). Para 2: Background + development of the discussion Perhaps 150–200 words. This is where you begin to sketch out the bones – the main issues, keywords, concepts. Para 3: Development of the discussion Perhaps 150–200 words. Focus on one issue, topic, theme, or concept… Think about how it links to what you have discussed in the previous paragraph. Para 4: Development of the discussion Perhaps 150–200 words. Focus on one issue, topic, theme or concept… Think how it links to what you have discussed in the previous paragraph. Para 5: Development of the discussion Perhaps 150–200 words. Focus on one issue, topic, theme or concept… Think how it links to what you have discussed in the previous paragraph. Para 7: Conclusion Approximately 150–200 words. Summarize the essay’s key points and issues; ‘echo’ the introduction. Can also refer to ‘implications’, ‘unresolved issues’, etc. (optional) in-text quotation, and bibliography for both. the first on should be about 250 words and the rest for the second question 1. Thinking theoretically about “social theory,” why might a “sociological imagination” be important, and what is the problem with “conspiracy theories”? 2. What are the strengths and weaknesses of Ogbu’s theory of variability in school performance, and to what extent might his heuristic classification of voluntary and involuntary minority groups perpetuate stereotypes?