Purpose

After practicing using definitions to write a paragraph on the American dream, students are ready to begin writing the definition essay. The prompt (topic) for the definition essay is what word or definition represents the student’s dreams or interests?

Instructions

To respond to the prompt—define a word or phrase that represents the student’s dreams or interests—students need to

• Research the general meaning of the word or phrase
• Define and explain what the word or phrase means to the student
• Connect the dream or interest to the student’s landscape

The word or phrase defining the dream or interest may represent present time or the future. It may be a term or phrase that describes an interest. For example, perhaps the student is a budding singer or songwriter? A chef? An artist? What does the student dream of accomplishing? Is the student planning on becoming a teacher, a veterinarian, or a business manager?

Students could compare or contrast the word or phrase to experiences they think the reader is familiar with in order to explain the meaning. Or, the student might choose to analyze why it is of interest (the causes) or how its influences (the effects). Be aware that the use of examples and descriptive writing will also be necessary. The essay must include at least two quotations or summaries of material from two different types of sources in support of the definition. The sources may come from an Internet site (Wikipedia and other similar online sites are not valid sources for research), an electronic database, or a book.

Using the FSCJ library database is highly recommended. Click the link to Library & Learning Commons located under Useful Links in your myFSCJ account to access.

After choosing a topic for the definition essay, follow the eight steps of the writing process, including prewriting, focusing, organizing, and outlining and drafting, revising, editing, and proofreading the essay before submitting it to the instructor for evaluation.

Download this set of planning worksheets to use in developing the essay.

Format Requirements

• Write 500–600 words, five paragraph minimum
• Use two print or database sources—only one may be from the Internet
• Follow standard MLA style format and documentation requirements for in-text citations and for the Works Cited page—both are required

Refer to the Write and MLA Style sections in The Little Seagull Handbook for guidance in writing and formatting the essay. You may also wish to use this FSCJ LibGuide on MLA formatLinks to an external site. for in-text citations and for the Works Cited page.

When the essay (including Works Cited page) is complete, save it as a PDF document and submit it here as a file upload. Click on the Submit Assignment button in the top right of this window. Upload your essay as a PDF and then click the Submit Assignment button at the bottom of the the page.