In–class essays
1. To prepare:
Study notes re: essay format, thesis statements, and topic sentences;
study your most frequent error and the content area you have selected to focus
on.
2. Things to bring
a. Watch
1. You will be more aware of the time and better
able to pace yourself
2. You don’t have to worry if the clock is in an
awkward position or non–existent
a. Take it
off and lay it on your desk
b. Two of your writing implements
1. You don’t lose time (sharpening or digging)
2. You won’t inconvenience your neighbors
c. Plenty of paper
d. A paper dictionary
e. Your lucky X
3. What is expected
a. To be graded, the essay should be
complete
1. Intro, body and conclusion (don’t trail off
or suddenly stop)
b. The essay must be organized:
1. Have a thesis, clear main points, and
specific examples
*Brainstorm first! Get an outline. Spend at least 5 or 10 minutes doing this:
a. You will have
direction, a clear plan
b. You are less
likely to wander off–topic
c. You will have
something to refer your instructor to if you run out of time
1. “refer
to outline”
2.
spend a few moments beefing up what you do not write;
this
will show
that you know the material
c. The essay must be correct: Pay attention to grammar, spelling and
neatness. Make
certain you
proofread your essay before you hand it in.
*Tips:
For this
particular type of essay:
Aphorism: “People in glass houses should not throw
stones”
Meaning
+ Example: Don’t criticize others if you
are in a prominent position (Ex. of televangelist caught picking up a
prostitute)
*Agree/Disagree: This is true/untrue
for what people in what situation?
*Audience/Purpose: Religious people who teach condemnation
rather than encouragement
Thesis: Think/know/do: People who are religious authorities should
not condemn others if they are not going to practice what they preach because
they will eventually be found out.
Dishonesty
Sexual
Misconduct
Vice: Alcohol/Gambling