Definition Essay Topics (6 topic choices on pg 2)
(12%, 850 words, double space)
While some terms have definite, concrete meanings like glass or tree, other more abstract terms such as honor and honesty depend more on a person’s point of view. There are several ways to define a term (see RG 30 for a sample definition paragraph): (1) you can explain its function, how something works or what it does; (2) tell how something is organized or put together (probably not what you will do for this essay); (3) compare the term to other members of its class and then illustrate with lots of examples the differences or special characteristics that make them stand out – A Siberian husky is a dog reputed for its ability to tolerate cold, its distinctive features, and its keen stamina.; (4) look at what the term does not mean in order to help the reader better understand the term itself – The saying “there is no place like home” is silly because there are, in fact, many places that feel like home. Which technique will you choose?
You should have little trouble (once you have done some research and come up with a STRONG thesis!)
ü Do not forget that the business of the essay is to make a point. Do not leave the reader wondering SO WHAT? You can accomplish this through a good thesis and in the conclusion.
ü Go beyond the ‘dictionary’ definition and refrain from using it!!!
ü Use a minimum of 2+ outside sources.
Methods used when defining: Most of the modes we have studied so far can be used as methods in the definition essay. For example, to define something, a writer can:
· Describe it (think about Adding Spices To The Mix)
· Tell stories about it (narrative anecdotes)
· Compare or contrast it to other things (this is actually the next essay)
· Give examples of it – explain a lot and focus on why/because
· Classify it and identify its unique properties
· Describe causes and effects of the item being defined
· Explain its process of functioning
After your research, determine a particular thesis or main idea about your word. This sentence will be the FIRST SENTENCE that will introduce your project, but not necessarily the first sentence of your essay! Stick to your topic. Remember a thesis is like an umbrella and everything must stay dry and on point, not wander in the rain!
Example of one type of thesis pattern: _______________ (term) is not merely ________________ (surface meaning), but rather, it is ________________________________ (set up your entire discussion).
Make the abstract idea, in other words the term being defined, more concrete and visual by using examples, narrative, description, facts and statistics, and other strategies for developing your examples. For the thesis, select the word being defined from the four topic choices mentioned above. For example: multiculturalism (not mentioned above). Place it in some category or class: Multiculturalism is a belief or system of values. Good start but needs more. Distinguish it from other members of the class: Multiculturalists favor recognition and celebration of differences among various social groups instead of seeking similarities. Okay, but what does that mean? Use negation to clarify and to show what it is not: Multiculturalism is not the “melting pot” metaphor of how American society was created. Put it altogether and then think about adding a hook in front and a transition plus thesis at the end. An example thesis: nevertheless, multiculturalism supports the preservation and celebration of differences among people of diverse cultures rather than urging them to replace their ethnic identities with one single “American” identity.
Topic Choices:
1. Write an essay defining a food--but include a thesis statement that paints a very favorable portrait of a much-maligned food (for example, Spam or brussel sprouts) or a very negative picture of a popular food (for example, chocolate or ice cream). You may want to rent Supersize Me in order to get more of a feel of how to put a popular food into negative light. Your goal is to think of some sources to support your point (2 min) and do not just go to quotes.com but to use a movie or a story, a personal experience (is okay for one example/paragraph), an article, a song, or something in the body of your essay that will be an example.
2. Write an essay in which you define stereotypes of marriage. What do you focus on? You could think about: how it has changed from society to society or from time to time. You can use your own or one you know as a personal example but the hard part is being specific and detailed and not vague and abstract (ie good, great, bad, horrible). Please remember the tolerance policy as this is also not your opportunity to preach about your beliefs! Your goal is to think of some sources to support your point (2 min) and do not just go to quotes.com but to use a movie or a story, a personal experience (is okay for one example/paragraph), an article, a song, or something in the body of your essay that will be an example. One of your examples can be narrative based.
3. What is the definition of 'cool' to older teenagers and twenty-somethings [persons such as yourselves or to people you know who are currently in this age bracket]? How, is "being cool" conveyed, through material possessions, attitudes, etc.? Finally, why and how does "being cool" matter [or not]? (AVOID using vague language that is generic and abstract to explain term! (ie. Cool is bling; cool is attitude).You will want to accomplish two primary objectives with this essay: explain what seems to be the general consensus about what "cool" is and how you yourself define and understand and ultimately value [or don't value] the term. You will want to consider figures in poetry, movies, books, comics, etc. You might consider narrowing the topic by choosing to focus on one particular aspect or product of "cool" [such as clothing or something like iPods or Sketcher shoes or even a show like Jackass. Your goal is to think of some sources to support your point (2 min) and do not just go to quotes.com but to use a movie or a story, a personal experience (is okay for one example/paragraph), an article, a song, or something in the body of your essay that will be an example.
4. Pick a modern tool or device that defines an era or a society (hula hoop and rock-n-roll for 50s, space for 60s, car phones in 80s, ipods for now, or whatever you can come up with). How does it represent that moment in time and why? Define it and how it is used. Your goal is to think of some sources to support your point (2 min) and do not just go to quotes.com but to use a movie or a story, a personal experience (is okay for one example/paragraph), an article, a song, or something in the body of your essay that will be an example.