Did they give you a minimum word count? Personally, I'd go with word count as a way of measuring appropriate length more than anything.
Typically though, I would say an HS essay would usually be intro, conclusion, and 3 paragraphs in between.
The way to look at paragraphs is that they are simply a tool for separating different concepts or breaking down an essay so it is simpler to read.
This also makes essay writing a lot more methodical. For example, if I was going to write an essay on global warming, I'd outline the opinion I plan to discuss in the intro, mentioning my three key points.
I would then analyse my three key points one at a time in the paragraphs below.
Is it geeky that this has made me miss writing essays at school? Anyway, hope this helps!
