Due Sept. 14(A) / 15(B), for 20 points. Can be handwritten. If typed, must be size 12, Times New Roman, Double Spaced.

Compose a two-paragraph essay of about a page in which you describe yourself from the point of view of your friends and your family. Follow this format:

Paragraph 1 should begin with the sentence, “My friends say that I . . . .”

Paragraph 2 should begin with the sentence, “My family say that I . . . .”

Include at least one specific example per paragraph, and at least one use of dialogue per paragraph.

Exclude, meaning DO NOT USE, these words: very, nice, great, all-around, basically, sort of, kind of, type of, always, random, really, amazing, incredible, and you. They’re weak. Don’t use them.

Adhere faithfully to every rule of grammar that you have ever learned. Employ standard, formal English. This means that you check for fragments, run-ons, subject-verb agreement, correct verb tense, and spelling mistakes. Use the grammar check on your computer.

Concentrate on intrinsic qualities. If your friends say you are good at basketball and you want me to know that, fine. I want to know your talents and interests, but include qualities that define your character as well.

This assignment accomplishes at least three purposes.

It helps me get to know you. It helps you get to know you. It shows me what you have learned so far about writing.

ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES

  • The essay should be about one page—not about half a page. A half-page essay will get half credit.
  • Please observe correct dialogue format:

My mom says, “Sweetheart, you are a perfect angel.”

NOT

My dad says “I complain too much.” This is your dad talking about himself, not

you.

  • Commas and periods go inside quotation marks.
  • Use Precise language. “My friends say that I am many things” or “My friends say many things about me” is vague. Even“My friends say that I’m really crazy” is imprecise. Consult a thesaurus if you get stuck.
  • Use at least two specific examples—one per paragraph. These should be specific events that illustrate the point you want to make.
  • Don’t load your essay down with words. Choose your words carefully. Keep it simple and interesting, not convoluted and boring. Use adverbs sparingly.
  • Write in the present tense or the past tense, or both, whatever is appropriate. Avoid the conditional tense, as in “We would be at the mall and my friends would be like”
  • Clichés are boring. “I am there for my friends no matter what. Whether they need a helping hand or a shoulder to cry on, I’m all ears in time of need through thick and thin. They are always there for me and I can count on them if I’m feeling down.”

Checklist

_____ The essay is about a page, or at least way over half a page

_____ The essay is two paragraphs

_____ Each paragraph begins according to the format specified above

_____ One use of dialogue per paragraph, punctuated correctly

_____ One specific example per paragraph

_____ Sentences are clear and grammatically correct

_____ Ideas are organized logically

_____ You have expunged all the no-no words listed on the first page of this handout

_____ You have included intrinsic qualities as well as talents

_____ Verb tense is appropriate for the context. You have avoided the conditional tense.