course materials

1. Definition Essay Title Introduction Grabber (possibly describing a scene or
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Definition Essay TitleIntroductionGrabber (possibly describing a scene or giving a dramatic
fact or shocking statistic, maybe a question)Defining a word or some aspect of your paper
using an “Essential Definition” of your own creation (see Chapter 12, page 186) or possible
a dictionary definition, quoted.Thesis statementBody of paper—An “Extended definition.”
Explain that there is more to understanding this than just its dictionary or essential
definition. Go on do any of the following:–Personalize your own interpretation “To me,
patriotism means more than flag waving. . .”–Put forth a revised meaning for a
commonplace term (‘thong” isn’t a shoe these days)–Analyze the word if it is complex or
controversial (“hell” wasn’t originally hot—just meant to cover in the ground.)–Give any
new information a person may not be familiar with (“Wife” is not just a spouse, but a cook,
chauffer, maid, waitress, counselor, accountant, nurse . . .)–Compare or contrast (Because
silver has to be smelted, it is hard to find than gold, so the expression “Seek as if for silver”
means . . .)–Tell a story to illustrate the meaning of this word or concept. (SIDS—Joe and Sue
were new parents when tragedy suddenly struck in the dark of night . . .)–Inform or explain
or persuade.Conclusion—Restate your thesis, but probably in different words. You might
state hope for the future, predict the future, or move people to action.Tie back to your
grabber or title, if possible.Works Cited page. If you cited from a dictionary or encyclopedia,
or cited any expert authority to help define your topic, you need a Works Cited page and
parenthetical citations. See MLA section in your Writers Reference book and look carefully
at the sample essay with Works Cited page at back.