For the purposes of this essay, focus in on three main steps, three main pieces of information, three main actions, or three main changes needed in order to achieve the particular result or goal.
The essay should use this format for the thesis statement:
When considering the American Dream, some experts believe that ______________, __________, and ______________ be completed in order for _________.
The pattern for this essay will be:
Introduction
Step, information, action, or change #1
Step, information, action, or change #2
Step, information, action, or change #3
Conclusion that demonstrates the end result of the process.
Make certain that the reader understands why knowing how this process works is important.
Transition from the hook to the thesis statement
Thesis statement: follow the pattern required for this group essay: When considering the American Dream, some experts believe that ___________________, _______________, and ___________________ be completed in order for ___________________________.
EACH BODY PARAGRAPH SHOULD INCLUDE:
A topic sentence that informs the reader what the paragraph will cover.
Supporting details that include a quotation, summary statement, or paraphrase of at least one of the authors read.
A closing that explains the function of what was described in the paragraph and that may help to transition to the next paragraph.
Besides being a specific type of essay, all essays for this class are expected to be a “synthesis essay.”
When synthesizing information, the writer combines information from several sources in order to create new knowledge or explore a new perspective.
By definition, a synthesis essay uses more than one source and finds common themes amongst these sources.
For the process analysis essay, groups are expected to use at least three of the passages the class read on “The American Dream.” Utilizing each source can be accomplished by:
Directly quoting the source (make sure to integrate the quote into the group’s own writing).
Paraphrasing information from the source (parenthetical citation still required).
Summarize a portion of the source (least favorable method; parenthetical citation still required).
SAMPLE ESSAYS
An example of a process analysis essay, including comments by the original professor, has been posted by Jefferson Davis Community College. This essay may be accessed at: www.easyliteracy.com/processanalysisessayjdcc.doc
An example of a synthesis essay, which was converted from APA to MLA, may be accessed at: www.easylitercy.com/synthesisexessay.pdf This essay was originally located at: http://www.tracihv.net/SmpleStudEssayAPA.htm
Information about writing a synthesis essay, including a checklist to assist in checking group work may be found at Drew University’s On-line Resources for Writers site: http://www.users.drew.edu/~sjamieso/Synthesis.htm
WRITING COLLABORATIVELY
Writing collaboratively is both invigorating and frustrating.
Being able to bounce ideas off others may lead to lively discussions, deeper reading, and better writing skills.
Working with others also may lead to frustration that a particular thought or idea is not the consensus of the group.
If a specific group needs assistance in working together, these sites may help:
The University of North Alabama offers assistance in how to assign roles within a group. Remember, though, that the expectation is that all members of the group will be part of the editing process. http://www.una.edu/writingcenter/docs/Writing-Resources/Collaborative-Writing-Help.pdf
Texas A&M also offers advice on how to assign roles and manage the group process: http://writingcenter.tamu.edu/2010/composing-process/collaborative-writing-peer-response/managing-group-writing-projects-2/
