1. Taking steps to build a strong personal essay for your high school or college application

2.  There are three things essayists consider when they collect their supporting points/ reasons: 1. Do the reasons support the claim? 2. Do we have enough information to support our reasons? 3. Are the reasons different enough?

3.  If the answer is yes to all 3 questions, put your claim in a box. Your claim is your thesis or overall main idea of your essay. I used to think that the little things that I did didn’t matter, but now I realize that a small sacrifice can make a big difference in the life of someone else.

5.  I realize that a small sacrifice can make a big difference in the life of someone else because it can show a loved one that you care for them.  I realize that a small sacrifice can make a big difference in the life of someone else because it can help contribute to their success.  I realize that a small sacrifice can make a big difference in the life of someone else because it can help build up a stronger community.

6. Class Claim: We’ve noticed that many people stick to routines, but we’re starting to realize that it is important to take risks.  What supporting points/ reasons can you and your partner come up with? Take a few minutes to discuss this.

7.  There are three things essayists consider when they collect their supporting points/ reasons: 1. Do the reasons support the claim? 2. Do we have enough information to support our reasons? 3. Are the reasons different enough?

8.  It is important to take risks because if you don’t, great opportunities may pass you by.  It is important to take risks because it shows that we have grown as a person.  It is important to take risks because taking risks is a part of our lives.

9.  The evidence that support your points/ reasons can be in the form of:  Examples (personal, world, and text)  Quotes (from someone well- known)  Parts of the moment/ experience

10.  We’re starting to realize that it is important to take risks because if you don’t, great opportunities may pass you by. - World example: You might miss out on a fulfilling career. - Personal example: when I gave teaching middle school a chance as opposed to teaching fifth grade. - Quote: "Security is mostly a superstition. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing." -- Helen Keller