Homework answers / question archive / Essay #1: Instructing Your Reader     Background: In ENGL-099, we’re going to write several different types of essays—essays with different purposes

Essay #1: Instructing Your Reader     Background: In ENGL-099, we’re going to write several different types of essays—essays with different purposes

English

Share With

---

Essay #1: Instructing Your Reader

 

 

Background:

In ENGL-099, we’re going to write several different types of essays—essays with different purposes. Later, as we get familiar with topics by reading multiple texts, you’ll take a position and make an argument. In another unit, you’ll do extensive research and then write to inform your readers about what you’ve learned. You’ll also analyze how texts are written. In our final essay, you’ll reflect on your semester and outline ways you’ve developed as a reader and as a writer. But for our first assignment, you’re going to draw on your own expertise and life experiences (no need for research and sources) and explain to your classmates and teacher how to do something—you’ll write to instruct.

 

Topic: Explaining how to do something – a process analysis essay

In this essay, you will explain to readers how to do something—you’re giving instructions. This type of writing can look different from one situation to the next. Sometimes instructions come with numbered steps. Sometimes there are bullet points. Some instructions jump right in and require no context or background information. The truth is, you may often find yourself writing to readers who aren’t already interested in your topic, so you want to engage them first—with a story or an image. That’s what your introduction should do!

 

Remember, your readers know nothing about your life. It is your job to make this essay interesting, clear, and complete. You also want to convince them that what you’re writing about has value to them. Here are some general strategies for a short essay like this:

 

Introduction

The introduction has two purposes: pull your readers into the essay and provide a clear thesis statement. Ideas to consider in creating your introduction:

1. Engage readers with something interesting or surprising (your hook)
2. Give a clear impression about why your instructions are valuable (why this is a thing worth learning to do)
3. End with a clear thesis statement that predicts the lessons or advice you’ll be giving to readers of your essay

Body paragraphs

Remember, the body of your essay should carefully and clearly explain (in sentences—not bullet points or lists) how to do this thing you do. Help your readers learn something they can apply to their lives. For this essay, I’d like to see focused paragraphs that have a clear purpose. Also, remember to use details and examples to help your reader follow along.

 

Conclusion

The conclusion is your opportunity to pull the essay together and leave your readers with something to think about. Honestly, for this type of assignment, the conclusion isn’t as important as an analysis or a more researched argument. So once you’ve finished giving instructions, you can wrap up in a couple ways:

1. Review the hook you used in your introduction – can you refer to it or discuss it from a new, changed perspective?
2. Remind readers why this skill or process is valuable.

Additional requirements

Your essay must be clearly organized, fully developed, and at least 2 typed pages, double spaced. Proofread carefully to be sure that your essay:

• is written in clear, complete sentences.
• has been spell-checked.
• has been proofread.
• is typed and double-spaced.

Criteria	Pts
Introduction paragraph is interesting and engaging. Essay is detailed and engaging	5 points
The introduction helps readers know what will be explained and discussed AND helps readers see the value in learning.   Introduction includes a clear thesis statement that predicts focus of essay.	5 points
The body paragraphs walk reader through your process / instructions – the essay is well organized	10 points
The body paragraphs are focused.	10 points
Correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling, with very few errors + Essay meets the requirements outlined on this assignment sheet (20 points)	20 points
Total	50 points