Text Production: Constructed Response

Writing an Informative/Explanatory (Source-Based) Essay

The source-based essay can be one of the more challenging types of essays to write. This type of essay requires writers to deeply and accurately understand sources, then draw upon the information presented there to both bring the sources together in a coherent discussion and bring in the writer's own ideas and perspectives on the topic. This can be especially challenging in a timed exam, where the topic may be new to the writer, yet the writer is expected to provide unique insights and present them clearly in the essay while under time pressure. Let's consider three steps to developing and writing a high-quality source-based essay, even under time pressure. After the instruction you will have the opportunity to write and submit a source-based essay for review and feedback.