ESL 150 (011) F 2009
Ma-Guideline for In-Class Essay Writing
In-Class Essay Writing Reminders
Do
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Read the question on the page carefully.
Think about your responses; ask “what, why, how questions.”
Brainstorm ideas or have an outline with clear ideas and examples.
Write down thesis, topic sentences first before you begin the essay.
Find support in the story/text/personal examples and stick to the thesis statement and its
support.
Leave at least 5 minutes for editing and proofreading.
Don’t
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Don't wander off topic.
Don't change your mind in the middle of the essay.
Don't give a plot summary of an experience/story. (Always make a point)
Requirements for Your First In-Class Writing
Your writing should:
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Contain a minimum of 450 words
Be organized with at least 5 paragraphs (with a clear thesis statement, topic sentences in the
body paragraphs, strong supporting ideas, and a conclusion)
Have elements of coherence and unity between paragraphs
Include some transitions between paragraphs and ideas
Show evidence of editing and proofreading skills-especially one verb tenses and verb forms
Contain academic vocabulary words learned from the unit (at least 8-10 words underlined)
(You may bring in an index card with ONLY academic words from the chapters.)
ESL 150 (011) F 2009
Ma-Guideline for In-Class Essay Writing
Practice Brainstorming and Outlining
Read the following topics carefully. Brainstorm ideas and prepare and outline for each.
Topics-1. Sometimes students are being compared with “vessels to be filled or lamps to be lit”. Which do
you think is more important—learning a large quantity of facts or learning to think creatively?
Why?
2. What should the requirements for entering a university be? Should extracurricular activities in
high school or personal characteristics be considered? Pick one criteria and discuss why it should be
a requirement for college entrance.
3. Affirmative Action has been a controversial issue in many communities and within many
institutions. In your opinion, should “Affirmative Action” be amended in all colleges? Why or Why
not?
4. To ensure nation wide standards, the Federal Government now requires annual testing in subjects
such as reading and mathematics in elementary and middle schools. However, the curricula vary
from state to state. In your opinion, who should decide on the curricula in secondary school (1st-12th
Grade)? The Federal Govt., State Govt., Local Govt., educators, parents or the students themselves?
Choose one group and explain why.
5. Since the 90’s, Multicultural Education has been implemented in many parts of the country.
However, some fear that incorporating multicultural education would lead to “the fragmentation of
American Society. In your opinion, is incorporating this curriculum important? Why or Why not?