PEEL paragraphs are life savers! Read on to find out why.
Countless times, it has been observed by students and teachers alike that due to not being expressed in the correct manner, the paragraphs lose points for structure, as well as coherence. This issue that seems like quite a daunting one could be solved by a very straightforward and approachable solution: the PEEL method.
According to this method, certains steps are followed to ensure that the paragraph is on point. The steps are clearly demonstrated by the acronym of PEEL:
P: Mention the point.
E: Add some evidence.
E: Add explanation.
L: Link it back to the main topic.
This acronym ensures that the writer does not stray away from the main point. The person is prevented from getting lost in unnecessary details that would further weaken the validity of the work, plus cost him/her a loss of points if the paper is to be graded.
There can be several multiple paragraphs and for each one this structure should be followed. For instance, if the topic is about the question of children’s safety, one of the body paragraphs could be arguing that since the crime rate has risen, children at all times should be escorted by their parents everywhere they go. Now, according to the PEEL method, this main point of the paragraph should be mentioned in the very first line of it (this first sentence is also known as the topic sentence), in order to ensure that the reader has a clear idea of what the writer has planned to discuss in that particular paragraph. Secondly, the writer should not expect the reader to simply take his/her word and believe it (that would account for a weak argument!). In order to strengthen the argument, the writer should instead give evidence immediately after the first sentence to ensure that the reader has the justification that boosts the argument’s validity. Any statistics, figures, percentages etc. could be mentioned to show that the crime rate is rising. Thirdly, the writer must explain the point in the light of the evidence further. And lastly, this entire theme in the body paragraph should be linked back to the main claim of the essay. This way, the writer would always stay in line with the main argument that has been initially made as a thesis statement.
The essay, as a whole, becomes a well-structured one if the paragraphs are structured using this method. Knowledge of the PEEL method not only makes one a better writer but also ensures that one succeeds academically. Good luck with the application of it in your essay!
