ENG 99
Leek
Essay #3— Extended Definition
Introduction
The next type of essay we will work on in class is called an Extended Definition Essay. Because language is a
living thing and because it evolves -- just like us -- sometimes it’s important to take the time to really consider
how we are using it. Sometimes we need to clarify (for ourselves or others) what we mean when we use a word or
phrase. Sometimes it’s just helpful to explore how we, personally, define a term or an expression at a given point
in our lives. You will see this kind of consideration, clarification, and exploration in the models we read, and you
will practice this kind of thinking and explaining when you write your practice assignments and your essay.
Transitions Conference
This essay will be linked with NSCC’s Transitions Conference, which will take place on Thursday, May 27.
You should already have signed up for this conference. If you haven’t done this yet, you need to immediately go
to the Announcements section of our web page and follow the directions to register for the conference. The
purpose of this conference is to help students like you prepare yourselves for college. There are a number of
informative workshops; there will be an information fair; and there will be other activities as well. We will not
have class on this day. Instead, you are required to attend one of the 11:00 workshops. You will want to take
notes at the workshop so that you will have information, definitions, and examples to use in your Extended
Definition essay. You will be required to complete at least the “Workshop #2” section of the attached Passport. I
will be at the conference, and at 11:50(ish) I’ll give you the prompt for your essay.
EXTRA CREDIT OPPORTUNITY: You can earn up to 30 points for the “homework” part of your grade in this
class by attending the Welcome Session, other workshops, or the information fair booths (10 points per completed
section of the passport, up to 3 sections in addition to Workshop #2) and completing the appropriate parts of
the passport and bringing it with you to class on the 28th in order to receive this extra credit. Note that the
campus tour, food, and prize selections are not included in the extra credit opportunity.
The Assignment:
o
On Friday, May 28, you will write an in-class, extended definition essay based on a prompt I
have given you at the conference on the day before. Part of your essay must be based on the
workshop(s) you attended at the Transitions Conference.
o
Essay Requirements:
 Your essay must have a clear and precisely written thesis statement (an introduction is
optional).
 Your essay must have 3 body paragraphs that demonstrate your ability to write an
extended definition as described in the book and in class as well as your ability to use
PIE.
 Your essay must use precise language and must avoid clichés and circular definitions.
 Your essay must use concrete information that you got from the Transitions Conference.
 A conclusion paragraph is optional, although I suggest your write at least one sentence
that makes some sort of conclusion about what you’ve included in your essay.
o
Bring to class: an outline*, paper, paper dictionary, pen/pencil, your completed Transitions
Conference passport, and transcribed notes** from the conference. I will collect your passport
at the beginning of class, so be sure to transfer your notes to another piece of paper.

*The outline should be on one side of one sheet of paper only, and must be words and
phrases only. It may not contain sentences. I will check your outlines during the class
period. If your outline contains clauses and sentences, I will remove it.
ENG 99
Leek

**Your notes from the conference need to be transcribed to fit on one side of one sheet of
paper, and they must also be words and phrases, no sentences. I DO NOT WANT YOU
TO QUOTE any speakers – use your own words.
How we will prepare:
o We will examine models from both a readerly and a writerly point of view.
o We will discuss the organization of definition essays.
o We will practice PIE and definition body paragraphs.
o On Tuesday, May 25, we will have an ungraded, in-class practice that will mirror the process for
the graded essay on Friday.
o On Wednesday, May 26, we will discuss your practice essays.
Dates:
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May 19 -- 21: assignment given, introduce Definition Essay, study and practice organization choices
May 24: practice prompt given
May 25: in-class practice
May 26: go over practice tests
May 27: Transitions Conference – no class (attendance at the conference is mandatory)
May 28: In class Extended Definition Essay (Essay 3)
Evaluation Criteria: I will use the following criteria to evaluate your essay:
1. Does the writing meet the requirements of the assignment? Is there an explicit thesis statement? (10%)
2. Does the essay contain 3 well-developed body paragraphs? Do body paragraphs attempt to follow PIE? (30%)
3. Does the essay make use of detailed information gathered at the Transitions Conference? (20%)
4. Does the writer use specific and precise language? Does the writer avoid vague references and circular
thinking? Does the writer demonstrate independent, critical thinking? Is the writing unique in some way?
(20%)
5. Is the essay edited carefully for grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation? Does the writer attempt to
use a variety of structures in writing? (20%)
NOTE: If you do not have your passport stamped, or if you do not bring your passport to class on the 28th, you
will automatically lose 10% from your grade on this essay.