Homework Helpers: Essays & Term Papers

by Michelle McLean

A fun, user-friendly guide that takes the confusion out of writing essays and papers for students of all ages. Unlike other books that are so full of technical jargon that they confuse more than help, Homework Essays and Term Papers uses straightforward language and simple steps to guide students through the essay-writing process.

Homework Essays and Term
    •    Describes in detailed “plain English” each element and step involved in writing a dozen different types of essays.
    •    Includes a rough, edited, and final draft sample of each type of essay discussed.
    •    Explains the necessity of proofreading and citing sources, providing tips and instruction on how to accomplish these tasks.
    •    Presents step-by-step instructions on how to write a great SAT essay.
    •    Discusses what students can expect when they reach college-level courses.

Students of all ages can find help in writing essays for every major subject in high school or college. Neophytes will find guidance on the basics, while those further along in their educational career can adapt the detailed instructions for more in-depth assignments.

Genres: Nonfiction

320 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2011

About the author

Michelle McLean is a jeans and t-shirt kind of girl who is addicted to chocolate and Goldfish crackers and spent most of her formative years with her nose in a book. She has a B.S. in History, an M.A. in English, and loves her romances with a little heat, a lot of humor, and always a happily ever after.

When Michelle's not working, reading, or chasing her kids around, she can usually be found baking or diamond painting, which she accidentally got addicted to while bored one day. She resides in PA with her husband and two teens, the world's most spoiled dog, and two cats who absolutely rule the house. She also writes contemporary romance as Kira Archer.

For more info on Michelle and her work, visit her website at michellemcleanbooks.com.

Reviews

[Ali Cross · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot stress enough what a fantastic book this is. I'm not sure what I expected--a dry textbook-like foray into the land of the boring, maybe--but this book isn't that at all. This book is accessible, informative, interesting and very, very helpful.

McLean details the different kinds of essays from basic (even helpful for me as my two fifth-graders are learning about essay writing this year) all the way up to the dreaded research/term paper that sends fourth year university students shaking in their boots. I learned things about the different essay types that I never once was taught, not in high school nor in university. Things I wish I'd been able to learn in such a friendly manner--rather than the fumbling in the dark way.

Whatever the type of essay you're required to write, McLean teaches you how to brainstorm, research, outline, and write from the rough to the finished draft. She also teaches you how to research and site sources. And as an added bonus, provides tips on avoiding common grammar mistakes.

HOMEWORK HELPERS: ESSAYS & TERM PAPERS is truly an exceptional resource for all your students. It should have a place on every student's shelf--right next to Webster's Dictionary and Roget's Thesaurus.

[Christine Fonseca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Mclean’s book, Essays and Term Papers, is the the newest addition to the Homework Helpers series of educational resources. It’s an outstanding writing guide for teens and adults from 8th grade through college. Every single type of writing assignment you may ever be asked to write is covered in this easy-to-read book. Each task is broken down into mini “lessons” that can make the most writing-phobic kid feel like they can not only do the assignment, but do it well.
I have two kids at home. My teen is in a gifted program, but she will tell you that writing does not come naturally to her (she is more the math/science geek). This book is perfect for her, breaking the writing down in a formulaic way that makes her comfortable with the writing process.
I’ve also seen the strategies in this book utilized with special needs kids – all with fabulous results.
Trust me, if you have kids in HS or college, or if you know any, go and get this book! You won’t be disappointed.
And if you are an English or Resource teacher, this is a great addition to your professional library, as well as an excellent resource for your parents! I really can’t speak strongly enough about it.

[Bethany Wiggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing because it is written on a young-adult level. It is easy to understand, humorous, and entertaining, while actually teaching many valuable writing skills. I recommend this to anyone--young or old--who is in need of writing guidance.

[Vonze · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish this book had included more Chicago Style examples. Otherwise, helpful book, quick refreshers in the different citing styles, and some good tips.

[James Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second time reading this great book from the Homework Helpers series! My writing skills have improved significantly because of the easy-to-follow aid in this book. It's definitely a Good-Read!

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting and engaging read. I picked this book up to help my niece and nephew prepare for writing essays for scholarship applications. However, I ended up reading this book cover to cover and both my niece and nephew have started reading as well. This book keeps readers engaged while presenting how to write the various types of essays. Each essay has a separate chapter with easy to read sections that describe the writing process from assignment and research to the final draft. A great resource whether the individual reading is in grade school or graduate school.