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Essay #2: Exemplification

Assignment:

“Exemplification uses one or more particular cases, or examples, to illustrate or explain a general point or an abstract concept” (Patterns 211).

“Sweeping generalizations and vague statements are not nearly as effective as specific observations, anecdotes, details, and opinions…Exemplification is used in every kind of writing situation to explain and clarify, to add interest, and to persuade” (212).

“Exemplification essays usually begin with an introduction that includes the thesis statement, which is supported by examples in the body of the essay. Each body paragraph may develop a separate example, present a point illustrated by several brief examples, or explore one aspect of a single extended example that is developed throughout the essay. The conclusion reinforces the essay’s main idea, perhaps restating the thesis.” (215).

Communicating our “ideas” requires the use of clear, detailed, and relevant examples in order to successfully reach our intended audience. All you need to do is develop a list of ideas (shoot for 10) related to topics or subjects of interest to you, try writing about 2 or 3 of those ideas, select the idea you feel most interested in, and draft an essay using a series of examples to help clarify for readers your idea. To write using exemplification is both practical and effective; readers will appreciate it!

Suggestions:

-Read over pages 211-225 in Patterns.

-Use freewriting and journal writing to quickly develop a list of 10 topics/issues/questions that might serve as a basis for your essay. Things that are bugging you make good essay topics, so do “issues” you believe need attention and/or solutions.

-Once you have the list generated, take 2 or 3 of the items for a “test drive”. Write 150 words or so on each of the 2 or 3 topics. Make sure you choose topics that you both care about and know about, topics that have a direct effect on your life.

-Bring your experimental drafts to class and share them with a classmate. Consider the feedback you receive from your peers, and then begin drafting your essay.

-Make a clear statement about your topic (thesis). Don’t be shy; say what you mean.

-Then, begin writing a few examples that might help make your point clear. Your final draft must include at least 5 distinct, relevant examples.

-Remember, one of the most powerful aspects of writing with examples is the ability to make abstract or unfamiliar ideas clear to most readers. Consider situations or issues analogous to the issue you have chosen. Analogies are very effective in reaching readers.

-Utilize what you’ve learned already while writing the “Personal Narrative” essay to describe the details that will make each example clear to readers.

Examples from Patterns to look over:

-Deborah Rhodes’ “Why Looks are the Last Bastion of Discrimination” (246-250).

-Zev Chafets’ “Let Steroids into the Hall of Fame” (253-255).