Essay Writing: Descriptive and Narrative

Working with an experienced writing instructor, students will learn how to write two types of essays -- descriptive and personal narrative. The syllabus is as follows:

Classes 1 and 2: Descriptive essay -- Unlike a narrative essay, which reveals meaning through a personal story, the purpose of a descriptive essay is to reveal the meaning of a subject through detailed, sensory observation.  Students will choose their own subject for this essay.  During Class 1, we will practice descriptive writing with some fun activities.  I will then present a mentor text and discuss the guidelines for a descriptive essay.  Homework:  Students will draft their essay and submit to me for feedback.

During Class 2, students will share their writing, if they wish.  Students will spend the remaining time revising and editing their essays. Homework: Polish essays and submit to me for feedback.

Classes 3 and 4: Personal narrative -- This type of essay is about a personal experience, so it is written in the first person.  Using vivid details and imagery, a personal narrative should have an emotional impact on the reader.  Students will write a personal narrative about a memorable experience in their life, what happened, and what they learned from the experience.  During Class 3, I will present guidelines for writing a personal narrative, and then we will read and analyze examples.  Students will spend the remaining time planning their essays. Homework:  Students will draft their essay and submit to me for feedback.

During Class 4, I will teach students how to add effective dialogue to their narratives.  Students will have time to add dialogue to their narratives and share their work with the class, if they wish.  Students will spend the remaining time revising and editing their essays. Homework: Polish essays and submit to me for feedback.

Like all of my classes, these sessions are highly interactive as I allow time for all students to provide input as I model the different styles of writing and to share their work with their peers.  Furthermore, I emphasize the writing process in my classes -- brainstorming, drafting, revising, and editing. Students are encouraged to submit drafts for my constructive feedback and then make revisions before finalizing their essays.