In-Class Essay Assignment

Tonight, you will write a timed essay. It is VERY likely that this short essay topic will help you a great deal on the exit exam. You will have one hour to complete the essay. You MUST type the essay in Microsoft Word, print it, and turn it in when you are through. The essay MAY NOT LEAVE THE ROOM.

Describe the way that neighbors are characterized in Say You're One of Them (e.g. what is their role? what are the relationships between neighbors like? why are these relationships sometimes difficult?). Now, compare these descriptions to your own experience with neighbors. Based on the text and your own experience, answer the following question: what are the characteristics of a good neighbor?

MLA Parenthetical Citations

This gives an overview of parenthetical citations.
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/02/

Homework for Tuesday, 11/20

Due: Rough Draft of Essay. Read: "Xmas Feast."

Practice Exit Exam Prompt

DIRECTIONS:  Write an essay in response to one of the topics below.  The essay should contain an introduction with a clearly stated thesis, an organized body or discussion section with specific details, and a conclusion.  Take a few minutes to plan what you are going to say.  Allow some time after you finish writing to proofread and edit.  You may use a dictionary.  You may also look back to the reading as you write.

Your response should include the following:

·       clear, direct response to the topic

·       effective introduction

·       clearly stated main idea that focuses your response

·       effective overall organization

·       clearly stated topic sentences for body paragraphs

·       effective use of specific details to back up general points

·       adequate development (two or more body paragraphs)

·       effective conclusion

·       adequate control over sentence skills

“I’m Not Married, but I’m Far From Alone” by Rachel Harris

1.     Unexpected events change our lives forever.  Describe an unexpected and the change it brought to your life.  Compare and contrast it with the one that Rachel Harris describes in her article.  Be sure to give examples from the reading and from your own experience. 

2.     When faced with a serious medical problem, Rachel Harris learned the value of friendship.  Have you also had an experience that showed you who your true friends are?  Explain and provide specific examples from the reading and from your own experience.

Just a Reminder

Please be sure to read the article for the practice exit exam. You can make notes on it if you want and print them out before class.

Also, be sure to post your thesis statement for Essay #1.