An essay is a piece of writing that presents a clear opinion or point of view. With a clear structure, your ideas become easier for the reader to understand. Most essays are divided into three main parts:
Introduction
- Give some background or context for your topic
- Clearly state your thesis – your main idea or opinion
- Try to catch the reader’s interest with a hook (a captivating statement or question)
Body Paragraphs
- Each paragraph should clearly support your thesis
- Start with a topic sentence that shows the main idea of the paragraph
- Explain your point clearly
- Support your point with examples, facts, or personal experience
- Use linking words (like for example, however, also, therefore) to connect your ideas smoothly
Conclusion
- Summarise your main points
- Restate your thesis in a new way, based on what you have discussed
- If writing an argumentative essay: end with a strong final thought or call to action
Example
For a Better Future – Human Rights
What does it mean to live with dignity, safety, and freedom? These principles are not luxuries but human rights – something every person is born with. Yet, these rights are ignored, denied, or even attacked in many parts of the world. From children being forced to work to people being imprisoned for expressing their opinions, the fight for human rights is far from over. Even in countries that appear fair and democratic, discrimination, hate speech, and inequality still affect people’s daily lives. This injustice raises the question: If these rights are meant for everyone, why are so many struggling to have them respected?
The right to be treated fairly, regardless of gender, background, religion, or beliefs, is something I have grown up believing in. In reality, the situation is more complicated. People are judged by who they are rather than by what they do. Racism, sexism, and hate speech are not just stories in the news; they affect real people in schools, workplaces, and communities. These issues might not always feel close to home, but they are closer than we think. As civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. powerfully stated, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” His words serve as a profound reminder that defending human rights is not just a personal choice, but a collective responsibility.
I became more aware of human rights when I started reading news online more frequently. Stories of girls denied education, peaceful protesters being arrested, or people forced to flee their homes made me realise how lucky I am – and how important it is to speak up. I might not be able to change the world alone, but staying silent is not the answer either. Even small actions, like raising awareness in school or sharing reliable information online, can bring about change.
What can we do to truly make a difference? One meaningful step would be to strengthen human rights education in schools. If young people understand these rights early on, they are more likely to stand up for themselves and others. Furthermore, social media can be a powerful tool for spreading positive messages and highlighting injustice. When young people learn about their rights and feel confident to speak up, they are more likely to stand up for themselves and others, challenge injustice, and help create a fairer society.
However, real change is often met with resistance. Some governments and groups want to control information or silence those who speak out. In some places, people risk their freedom – or even their lives – just for defending basic rights. Fear, censorship, and misinformation are manipulative tools to maintain control and prevent change. Still, progress often begins with brave individuals who dare to demand better. Their courage can inspire others, creating a positive impact that leads to real change, even in the face of resistance.
Ultimately, protecting human rights helps everyone. In a society where people feel safe, respected, and free to express themselves is one where innovation, peace, and cooperation can grow. Whether we are fighting against discrimination in our local community or supporting freedom of speech worldwide, we are building the foundation for a better and brighter future.
In conclusion, human rights are not just words in a document – they are promises that every person deserves dignity, safety, and freedom. Although these promises are not always fulfilled, we can be part of the solution by educating ourselves, speaking out, and supporting those who need help. A better future is possible, but only if we are brave enough to stand up for what is right.