Final answer:
To discern the central idea of an essay, locate the thesis statement, analyze the topic sentences of body paragraphs, and review evidence cited. The essay's conclusion should encapsulate main points and reveal the analysis's significance.
Step-by-step explanation:
To identify the central idea of an essay about rock arches, one must look for a thesis statement that presents the main argument or point of the essay, usually found at the beginning. The central idea could be identified by sentences that capture repeated statements, summarize ideas, or establish an argument, often supported by details such as examples, quotations, and paraphrases. Text evidence is crucial in supporting this central idea, and it must be appropriately cited, using page or line numbers when necessary.
The body paragraphs should each have a topic sentence that relates back to the thesis statement and is supported with scholarly evidence. This evidence needs to be contextualized to show how it supports the main idea and fits within the wider argument of the essay. The conclusion of the essay should restate the thesis in new words and summarize the main arguments, highlighting the significance of the essay's analysis and how it might contribute to further research or a better understanding of the topic.
As part of the essay writing process, consider the rhetorical situation—purpose, audience, stance, context, and culture—which will help in effectively analyzing and providing a new understanding of the nonfiction subject matter, in this case, rock arches.