Definition Essay Professor Minnis 2012

What Is a Definition Essay?  A Definition essay provides an explanation of a general principle or idea by using a number of well-chosen examples.  Definition is one of the most frequently used methods in writing, especially when the writer wants to impart new or unfamiliar information. Do not use the dictionary!!! This is your take!

How to Write an Definition Essay An Definition essay involves the following development: Choose a general idea to illustrate: Choose a general idea to illustrate:Example:  Many of today’s drivers have dangerous habits  Teaching is a demanding profession.  The best things in life are definitely not free. Use specific examples to illustrate the ideas. Example: a car-give examples of when you have used the car, reliability and comfort. Employ senses of sight, sound, smell, touch, or taste to enhance the vividness of examples; Employ senses of sight, sound, smell, touch, or taste to enhance the vividness of examples; Use facts, anecdotes, and personal experiences for concrete details.

Introduction  Introduce topic  Provide transition statement  Thesis sentence provide the statement which you will illustrate in the essay.

Body Body paragraph 1 1. Topic Sentence: Present the first supporting idea. 2. Supporting Details: Give specific examples (one long example or three short examples). 3. Closing Remarks: Wrap up the whole paragraph. Body paragraph 2 1. Topic Sentence: Present the second supporting idea. 2. Supporting Details: Give specific examples (one long example or three short examples). 3. Closing Remarks: Wrap up the whole paragraph. Body paragraph 3 1. Topic Sentence: Present the third supporting idea. 2. Supporting Details: Give specific examples (one long example or three short examples). 3. Closing Remarks: Wrap up the whole paragraph.

Conclusion  Bedford gives you example essays and a checklist page Restate the thesis statement. 2. Emphasize the importance of the topic.

Assignment Create a definition essay or job-application letter (page ) Your topic can be from…  Any of the Suggestions for Writing page 190, 195, 201, and 211  Additional Topics page 213 Due Thursday 9/20/12-yes you have week and a ½, be careful with extra time! words Times NR, or Arial/12 font/double space

Activity  In groups of 3-4 students go to page 213, read the prompt for Q1 (examples in Ch6)  Pick three topics to create… 1. A thesis 2. 3 support ideas examples per support Make sure you put the name as your title In your groups you will share one of these.