ESSAY WRITING

In this section, you’ll provide four writing samples: choose one topic from each of the four groups of essay types. Each type uses a different writing pattern.

Group 1: compare and contrast essays

Group 2: process analysis and narration essays

Group 3: argumentative and persuasion essays

Group 4: definition and division/classification essays

Essays for group 1-4 do not require research. However, if you choose to use secondary sources, you must cite them according to Modern Language Association (MLA) guidelines for in-text (parenthetical) citation and provide a list of works cited.

GROUP 1: COMPARE/CONTRAST
(Choose only one topic)

1. In approximately 400–500 words, using compare/contrast strategies, discuss
the advantages and disadvantages of distance education programs compared
to traditional classroom education.

 

2. In approximately 400–500 words, using compare/contrast strategies, compare
and contrast two sports or two games.
GROUP 2: PROCESS ANALYSIS AND NARRATION
(Choose only one topic)

1. In approximately 400–500 words, using process analysis and narration techniques, explain how to take some measures to protect yourself online.

2. In approximately 400–500 words, using process analysis and narration techniques, explain how to get a good night’s sleep before an important event, such as an exam.

GROUP 3: NARRATION AND PERSUASION
(Choose only one topic.)

1. In approximately 400–500 words, using narration and persuasion techniques,
persuade readers that they should be physically active and eat a healthy diet.

2. In approximately 400–500 words, using narration and persuasion techniques,
persuade readers that a school dress code or uniform policy should or should
not be implemented.

GROUP 4: DEFINITION AND CLASSIFICATION
(Choose only one topic.)

1. In approximately 400–500 words, using definition and classification strategies, discuss various types of social networking sites and the advantages and disadvantages of each.

2. In approximately 400–500 words, using definition and classification strategies, discuss some active measures people can take to reduce, reuse, and recycle.

PART 7: MLA STYLE

In this section, you’ll demonstrate your proficiency in rhetorical analysis, research, and the correct use of MLA style. You’ll compose a persuasive essay that contains a paraphrase, a short quotation, and a block quotation, each of which is properly formatted and cited in MLA style. The Works Cited list at the end of your essay must include a citation for an Internet source, a book, and a magazine or journal.

This essay must be typed. Compose a persuasive essay of 750–1,000 words based on one of the following topics

1. “Today about half the adult population owns a smartphone; by 2020, 80% will. Smartphones have also penetrated every aspect of daily life. The average American is buried in one for over two hours every day.” (“Planet of the Phones,” The Economist). Based on this quote, research this topic and persuade the reader you believe that smartphone use is making us either more connected or more alone, than in the past.

2. During the Ebola epidemic in 2014, people discussed whether to impose a travel ban to prevent the spread of the disease. Research this topic and write a paper trying to persuade the reader that a travel ban during outbreaks of viruses like that of Ebola either is or is not warranted.

Essays must be typed using 1-inch margins, 12-point Times New Roman font, and double-spaced.

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