The Power of Essay Writing as a Learning Technique

Introduction

• Essays are a highly effective learning tool.
• Equally useful for humanities, math, and science subjects.
• This lecture explores the benefits of essay writing and provides techniques and resources.

Historical Background

• Michel de Montaigne: Credited with creating the modern essay form in the Renaissance.
• His essays were introspective and influential in literature, inspiring writers like Shakespeare.

Why Essays?

• Essays are not just assignments but tools for developing understanding and ideas.
• Famous essayists include George Orwell, Virginia Woolf, and Joan Didion.
• Essays help form thoughts and explore ideas, improving thinking skills.

Cognitive Benefits

• Bloom’s Taxonomy: Essays engage multiple levels of cognitive function (analyze, evaluate, create).
• Critical for developing expertise and critical thinking.

Critical Thinking

• Essays require critical thinking: identifying evidence, evaluating logic, and reasoning.
• Transform descriptive into critical-analytical writing by asking deeper questions.

Learning Strategies Enhanced by Essay Writing

Retrieval Practice

• Proven effective strategy for learning.
• Involves recalling information after reading, improving memory retention.

How and Why Questions

• Asking these questions deepens understanding and links new information to existing knowledge.

How to Write an Essay

Title

• Should allow for reasoning, analysis, and evaluation.
• Example: Consider the importance of photosynthesis to life on Earth.

Structure

• Jordan Peterson’s Guide:
  • 25-page essay guide available for free.
  • Suggests a structured approach: 100 words per paragraph.
  • Logical progression of ideas.

Recommended Resources

• Brilliant.org: Offers interactive lessons in various subjects, focusing on problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Jordan Peterson’s Essay Guide: Helps structure essays effectively.

Conclusion

• Essay writing encompasses effective learning strategies.
• Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Resources like Brilliant.org can supplement essay writing by enhancing learning habits.

Call to Action

• Challenge yourself to write essays to become a better thinker and problem solver.
• Utilize the resources mentioned to improve your essay writing skills.