Essay:

Essay: The Beginnings of the American Tradition

With this unit, I am looking for one of two different essays in M.L.A. format. You may be assigned to write either an opinion paper or a comparison/contrast paper. Be listening in class for which will be decided on! All papers will be

Preferably typed (or written) on one side of the paper
written in black or dark blue ink or using black ink on computers
Use only professional fonts (CG Times, Times New Roman, etc.) NO script or fancy fonts. They ruin your "voice."
Use a header on the first page one inch from the top of the page on the left margin (one inch margins on all four sides) The header should have your first and last name on the first line, double space, the class name on the second line, double space, the instructor's name on the third line, double space, finally the date the paper is due in M.L.A. form. See the example below.
The title is NOT quoted or underlined or italicized. The title is correctly capitalized and leads the reader to expect what your thesis is. "Columbus" is a topic, for example, and would be a bad essay title. "Columbus Begins the Slave Trade" or "A Defense of Christopher Columbus" are better essay titles.
Read the sections in the "Writing and Composition" section of this website about using names, verb tense and any other subjects that you are unsure about. They will be discussed in class, but this is additional explanations.

Sample:

Sally Jones

English III, Advanced

Mr. Edwards

12 September 1993

A Comparison of Leadership Styles Between Captain Smith and William Bradford

This is where you start typing your paper. Notice the international dating above! The day comes before the month, which comes before the year. The top margin in one inch as well as both sides and the bottom of the page. This SHOULD BE double spaced right here, but I'm checking to see it you are reading this! Remember, if you have any questions, see your instructor as many teachers will want something a little different. This is just the example for Mr. Edwards's class.

1) Comparison/Contrast Paper: In this paper you are to compare or contrast Captain John Smith and William Bradford. Both of these people were successful settlers in the early 1600's. There were many similarities in the way they managed to survive and the threats against their survival. There were also many contrasts in the manner in which they faced their struggles and the way they led their groups. Read the sections in the books by each man, participate in the class discussions and you will have plenty of support for this paper.

2) Opinion Paper: On this website you will find several essays both pro and con about Christopher Columbus and his voyages to the New World. Some believe his trips left a lasting impression on our lives here and throughout the globe. Others, you will find, don't see Columbus as someone to emulate or revere. After discussing both sides, come up with ONE opinion and persuade the reader to adopt your viewpoint. Be sure to support your side with evidence found in the essays.

If you want to show me your rough draft to have it checked, see me during seminar, before or after school, or send it via email at SSHSCoach@midkan.net . As the school year continues, I will be more specific about the way essays should be presented. This is just a start. Make it a good start!

Have questions or comments? email Jay Edwards

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