Writing the Conclusion
The conclusion of a Text Response essay is crucial, serving as the final opportunity to impress the reader. It should not only summarize main arguments but also resolve the essay topic by reflecting on broader implications and connecting themes to universal human experiences. Effective conclusions include relevant quotes and a final thought, emphasizing the importance of crafting a nuanced and insightful ending to enhance the overall quality of the essay.
Purpose
As part of each of these modules, there will be a purpose that connects back to VCE English.
The Conclusion is the shortest and generally least important part of your Text Response essay. It is still a necessary component however, as many teachers require it as a ‘box-ticking’ exercise.
Post-Module Learnings
Following this module, these are the following skills you should have.
I understand the structure of the Conclusion.
I am able to prepare a high-quality conclusion that will get good marks for the Exam.
Content
The Conclusion's Purpose
The conclusion is the final paragraph of your essay and serves as your last opportunity to leave a strong impression on the reader. Contrary to previous notions that it is less important or merely a 'box-ticking exercise,' the VCAA 2023 Exam Report emphasises that a well-crafted conclusion can significantly enhance your essay. It is not just about summarising your points but about resolving the topic and demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the text.
As per the VCAA 2023 Exam Report:
Extract from the Exam Report:Many responses included a conclusion that summarised the ideas presented, and this was recognised as an appropriate way to end an essay and rewarded as such. However, responses that could resolve the topic demonstrated a more sophisticated understanding of the text and thus were more highly rewarded.The following extract responds to The Erratics, Question 16ii. – ‘“She has her truth and I have mine …” To what extent do the characters shape their own versions of the truth in order to survive?’In the end there is a sense that the reshaping and creative construction of fact goes beyond ensuring survival, but also allows one to attain inner peace and ‘closure’, as Lareau-Harvie transitions into magical realism to vividly illustrate a side she did not know, but hoped, had existed for her mother. She gazes up at the ‘millions of stars’ no longer able to deny the existence of her children as Napi The Trickster insists she cannot ‘[take] back what [she has] been given.’ With this Lareau-Harvie imparts to us the understanding that to be human is to be in a constant search for enlightenment and hope within the suffering that characterises life – and we all ‘do what we can’ in order to find this.In short, assessors rewarded responses that explored the topic, and its implications, through a sequenced, well-substantiated and fluent explanation of their reading and interpretation of the text.
From this, it is clear that your conclusion should not only summarise your main arguments but also resolve the essay topic, perhaps by reflecting on the broader implications, offering insightful commentary, or connecting the text's themes to universal human experiences. Including relevant quotes and concluding statements is now acceptable and can enrich your conclusion, demonstrating a deeper engagement with the text.
Ensure that you only use the author’s last name as usual, because you shouldn’t be having full names referenced outside of the Introduction only.
How to Write the Conclusion
Topic: Ray Bradbury’s The Veldt explores the dangers of heavily relying on technology. Discuss.
When crafting your conclusion, aim to:
- Summarise Your Contention: Restate your central argument in a way that encapsulates the essence of your essay. This reinforces your position and ensures the reader is clear on your perspective.
- Resolve the Topic: Go beyond mere summary. Address the essay question directly by synthesising your main points to arrive at a nuanced understanding. Show how your discussion leads to a deeper insight into the text's themes.
- Include Relevant Quotes: Incorporate significant quotes from the text that encapsulate key themes or ideas. This reinforces your arguments and demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the text.
- Provide a Concluding Statement: Offer a final thought or reflection that leaves a lasting impression. This could be a universal statement about human nature, society, or the enduring relevance of the text.
Sample Conclusion:
In concluding his short story with the chilling demise of George and Lydia, Bradbury reaffirms the deadly consequences of allowing technology to overtake one's life without questioning its necessity. The children's unsettling plea, "Don't let them switch off the nursery," highlights the obsessive dependency that technology can foster. Ultimately, Bradbury warns modern audiences of the perils of unbridled technological advancement, urging us to retain our humanity amidst innovation. As he illustrates, when "the screams of the parents sound familiar," it is already too late—a stark reminder that technology should serve us, not consume us.
Note: If you are pressed for time, prioritise summarising your contention and addressing the essay topic directly. However, aim to include at least a brief reflection or concluding statement to enhance the sophistication of your conclusion.
Quotes that you use should be a bit shorter, between 5-6 words maximum in terms of length, and preferably embedded to some degree as well, so it flows naturally within the sentence.
Conclusion Template
In concluding [his/her] [type of text] with [what happens at the end of the text], [author's last name] [verb: reaffirms/highlights/emphasizes] [central theme or issue]. As [character] declares/reflects, "[insert relevant quote with a maximum of 6 words within]," [author's last name] [verb: warns/reminds] us that [broader implication or lesson]. Ultimately, [author's last name] leaves us with the understanding that [concluding statement about universal theme or human experience].
Example Using the Template:
In concluding his short story with the children's ultimate betrayal of their parents, Bradbury emphasises the destructive potential of technology when left unchecked. As Peter chillingly remarks, "I wish you were dead," Bradbury warns us that neglecting human relationships in favour of technological conveniences can lead to dire consequences. Ultimately, Bradbury leaves us with the understanding that without mindful moderation, our creations may become our undoing.
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