8/3/2019 Personal Essay 2011
1/2
Freshman English
Personal Essay Assignment
Earlier in the year, we read two first person narratives related
by maturing young men: Elie Wiesels
Nightand Paul BaumersAll Quiet on the Western Front. Though none
of usthank Godhave endured
the suffering and trials that both Paul and Elie face, we all
have stories that shed light on our own
maturation. More recently, we read Coehlos The Alchemist, a
novel that not only traces the maturation of
a young protagonist, but also explores spiritual ideas such as
Personal Legends and fate, God and love,understanding and
transformation.
Assignment: Compose an essay about ONE event, experience or
memory in your life; this event
should be carefully selected with two ideas in mind. First, it
should allow you to tell an interesting and
vivid story. Second, it should show something about you.
Do not feel compelled to write about major events (getting into
Regis, deaths in the family, the first day
you rode a bike). Instead, identify an event that offers you the
opportunity to tell an interesting story and
to share insight into how you have become the person you are
today. DO NOT close the story with And
this is how striking out with the bases loaded taught me to deal
with disappointment. Instead, SHOW
this insight.
The essay should be at least 3 full pages (but no more than 5
full pages) in length. It must be typed in 12pt
font (Times New Roman or Garamond), double-spaced, and formatted
with one inch margins.
Due date: Final draft Monday, May 9 ( C )
Some Guidelines to Follow When Composing this Essay
Begin with reflection, then planning
First, reflect upon a memorable event that had an impact on you
or taught you a lesson.
Second, plan how to tell the story of this event.
Finally, begin writing, revising, writing, revising, ad
infinitum
ShowDont Tell
Your composition should create a detailed, vivid picture.for
example: dont say, He was tall; instead, show the trait: :
His head brushed the doorframe as he entered.
or His long stride made it difficult for me to keep up.
Avoid to be verbs. Instead, use strong and active verbs.
e.g., Instead of, I was happy. Consider: I grinned from ear to
ear.
Add Something with Each Sentence
Make every sentence count. When revising, eliminate any
vagueness and general statements. Be
sure to convey the best, most telling details.
Write vividly and creatively
Avoid clichsExercise varied and descriptive word choice
You do not need introduction paragraphs, topic sentences or
conclusion paragraphs
Also: avoid excessive exposition
The story should NOT open with an introduction paragraph.
Instead, begin with a vivid and
catching opening. Get right into the action and try to minimize
exposition.
When you have questions, feel free to stop by my desk or email
me.
