Personal Essays

1. What was one idea that the writer gave in the Wide Range of Topics section that you can use as you start deciding on a topic?
An idea the writer gave was to pick a conversational topic that evokes emotion in the reader.

2. What was one idea the writer gave in the Opinions Pieces section that you should remember as you are writing your piece?An idea the writer gave was to avoid using abstract expressions and phrases such as “the best day of my life”, “my happiest moment as a parent”, “I’d never known greater grief” to describe emotions of love, loss, anger, joy, satisfaction, etc.

3. List three suggestions the writer makes in the Personal Essays and Crafts section that you will use as you write.

• Personal essays by definition contain a personal perspective. You should be there. Watch your construction. If every sentence begins “I”, you need to rephrase to provide a better rhythm and pace to your piece.
• Make connections. If you’re writing about a global theme (poverty, unemployment, child abuse) bring the subject closer to home by relating it to specific, individual examples. If you’re writing about more mundane subjects (left-hand turn signals, the search for the best French Fries, your daughter’s graduation) again, set your views against a wider backdrop or perspective so the reader can relate to it.
• In a personal essay you have the freedom to think what you like on a subject, but your reader should go away with a good idea of why you feel that way.