|
        
Definition Essay
Here is your opportunity to use the techniques of
"definition" (as well as "example" and "explanation") to
develop an essay. Choose a word,
such as "hero/heroism" or "curiousity/curious."
Use examples and explanation , and definition to develop your essay.
Do the following steps to write
a good essay.
1.
Categorization: Write a formal definition of the word/term.
(You may use the dictionary)
Example: Curiosity is (class) the
human quality (differentiation) expressed by
questioning, researching, and discovery.
2.
Brainstorming - Answer these questions about your term:
- How is _____(term) different from and similar to
other_______(qualities,
religions, feelings, behaviors, characteristics, people)?
- What are some types of ___(term)?
- How is _________________ shown in a person's behavior?
- Why would someone want to exhibit ___________________?
- Why would someone not want to exhibit ____________?
- What are some examples of ____________ (term)?
- How do children view or define _______(term)?
- How do adults tend to view or define _______(term)?
- How might some groups of people view or define _____ differently from
other groups of people? Why?
3.
Developing Main
Point (subpoint) Statements
a. Read your answers to the above.
b.Think about and write three or
four main points you want to make about
the term.
Here are examples of subpoint
statements for the word, "curiousity"
- Curiosity is a primary characteristic of a person who wants to succeed.
- Successful people tend to look for answers to questions, which requires a
curious mind.
- Curious people often tend to take risks, which can result in new
learning, improvement, and success in a new endeavor.
4. Develop each sub-point statement
into a well-written paragraph with the sub-point statement as the topic
sentence.
5. Write an introductory paragraph that
includes the category definition as the thesis and a version of the three or
four sub-points.
6. Write a conclusion paragraph.
| 