Essay : Exploring Identity
I. Summary:
This essay is a continuation of the Definition Essays you should have written in Composition I. Before we can begin to research and think about the topic for this semester, each student should begin to determine for themselves what Identity is about and how it is a part of their lives.
II. Purpose:
To define and explore Identity for yourself; your audience are your immediate classmates in your research group
III. Instructions:
First ½ of Essay: Your Thoughts
The first part of your essay will focus on you and how you might think about Identity in your life.
1) How do you define the term identity? (no sources may be used, this is in your own words)
2) If someone asked you to describe how you define yourself and who you are, what would you say? Here you might think about race, class, gender, faith, geography, family, friendships, and beliefs.
3) What are some things you haven't thought about yet or that might change as you get older?
4) What has changed since you were younger, if anything, and why?
Second ½ of Essay: Your Classmate's Thoughts
The second part of your essay will require you to interview one of your classmates and see what they say about Identity. You will ask them the same questions from the section on you, but they are also repeated below.
1) How do you define the term identity? (no sources may be used, this is in your own words)
2) If someone asked you to describe how you define yourself and who you are, what would you say? Here you might think about race, class, gender, faith, geography, family, friendships, and beliefs.
3) What are some things you haven't thought about yet or that might change as you get older?
4) What has changed since you were younger, if anything, and why?
Conclusion:
In order to conclude, compare the similarities and differences between your thoughts and that of your classmate. Did anything stand out to you about what you shared or did not share, even though you are both college students in the same class at the same university?
IV. Essay Guideline:
Your essay should be 3-5 pages long, double spaced. You should use Times New Roman font, size 12. You won't use any sources, but do need a Works cited that cites your interview with your classmate.
We will go over MLA formatting and citation style in class; you can also consult the owlatpurdue.com or the writing center link on MindTap.