This is a practice assignment. In this writing assignment you will write a personal essay on the topic of your choosing.
Your Assignment
Write a personal essay on the topic of your choice.
Your essay should be at least five paragraphs long. It should use the basic essay structure of an introduction paragraph, a body with at least three supporting paragraphs, and a conclusion paragraph.
Your introduction paragraph should include a hook to grab your reader's attention and a thesis statement. Everything in your essay should function to support your thesis.
The supporting paragraphs should all include a topic sentence, at least three supporting sentences, and a clincher sentence that restates your topic sentence.
Your concluding paragraph should wrap up your essay and include a clincher sentence that restates the thesis statement in different words. Your essay should be well crafted and written in a 12-point font with one-inch page margins.
Choose a topic that is interesting to you and will be interesting to your reader, too.
Note: Click "Writing Help" for ideas on choosing a document to use for your paraphrase.
Tips for Success
Brainstorming, Prewriting, and Outlining
Before you try to write your essay, brainstorm ideas to organize your thoughts. You may also want to prewrite using listing or clustering.
Then write a simple, informal outline of your essay with a thesis statement, three supporting points, and a clincher.
Writing a Personal Essay
Begin with a hook to grab your reader's interest.
End your introduction paragraph with a thesis statement that introduces the topic your essay will be about.
Your thesis statement should be about something you think, experience, believe, or feel.
After the introduction paragraph, follow with a body that includes at least three supporting paragraphs. All of your supporting paragraphs should develop the point of your thesis.
Follow the body of your essay with a conclusion paragraph.
Your conclusion paragraph should wrap up your essay and include a clincher sentence that restates the thesis in new words.
Be sure to include transitions to guide your reader from sentence to sentence and paragraph to paragraph.
Be sure to write in complete sentences.
Be sure to use proper punctuation, grammar, and spelling.
Global Review
Does everything in your essay advance the point in your thesis statement?
Are there sentences that should be deleted or added?
Is the essay in the best order possible?
Does the essay use the basic five-paragraph format (introduction, body, and conclusion)?
Local Review
Did you check your essay to ensure correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar?
Do you have a specific question about this writing assignment? I'd be happy to provide any additional guidance or clarification you need.
Writing a personal essay can be an enjoyable and creative exercise that allows you to express your thoughts and experiences. Whether you have a specific topic in mind or are looking for inspiration, the process can be broken down into several steps to help you write a well-crafted and engaging essay. Here is a step-by-step guide to writing a personal essay:
Step 1: Brainstorm and Choose a Topic
Start by brainstorming ideas for your essay. Consider your interests, experiences, and beliefs. Think about topics that are meaningful to you and that might also resonate with your readers. Once you have a list of potential topics, choose the one that stands out to you the most.
Step 2: Create an Outline
Using your chosen topic, create a simple outline for your essay. This will help you organize your thoughts and maintain a clear structure. Your outline should include an introduction paragraph with a hook and thesis statement, at least three body paragraphs with supporting points, and a conclusion paragraph.
Step 3: Write the Introduction
Begin your essay with an attention-grabbing hook that captivates your reader's interest. This could be a thought-provoking question, a compelling anecdote, or a bold statement. After the hook, introduce your topic and provide a thesis statement that clearly states your main point or argument.
Step 4: Develop the Supporting Paragraphs
In the body of your essay, dedicate one paragraph to each supporting point mentioned in your thesis statement. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of that particular paragraph. Support your topic sentence with at least three detailed sentences that provide examples, evidence, or personal experiences. Finally, end each paragraph with a clincher sentence that reinforces your topic sentence and transitions smoothly to the next paragraph.
Step 5: Conclude Your Essay
In your conclusion paragraph, summarize the main points discussed in your essay. It should also restate your thesis statement using different words to leave a lasting impression on the reader. Consider ending your essay with a thought-provoking statement or a call to action that leaves the reader thinking or inspired.
Step 6: Review and Revise
After completing your essay, review it thoroughly for coherence, clarity, and effectiveness. Ensure that each sentence contributes to the overall point of your thesis statement. Delete or add any necessary sentences or ideas to improve the flow and structure of your essay. Check for correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Lastly, make sure your essay follows the basic five-paragraph format of an introduction, body, and conclusion.
By following these steps, you can create a personal essay that engages your reader and effectively conveys your thoughts and experiences. Remember to choose a topic that interests you, and write with your audience in mind. With careful planning and revision, your personal essay can become a compelling piece of writing.