In any class beyond English 100 that requires writing,
you will be expected to perform well on the major essay
assignments and particularly well on any assigned in-class
assignments. I know for a fact that students DISLIKE
the in-class essay format, because it adds the pressure
of time management to the mix. Nevertheless, the more
you can prepare for this format NOW, and the more I
can help you prepare for this format NOW, the more success
I hope you can attain LATER. Realistically, most poli
sci, history, psychology, philosophy, English, music,
art, and other humanities classes REQUIRE such essays
as part of the course content.
To make the in class reviews less stressful, I will
always endeavor to provide you with the source material
ahead of time so that you can read and take notes on
the material. I will also try to post some guiding questions
that may help you succeed. In certain cases, I will
provide the in class essay prompt ahead of time.
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| 1.
Don’t panic. Mentally calm
yourself, and remember: Even an in-class essay has
a set writing process. |
2.
Apply that process. Don’t
rush into the writing and start immediately.
A. Read the prompt, carefully.
Pay attention to the verbs in the prompt. What does
the writing prompt specifically indicate as your
task(s)?
B. Use about 10%-15% of the entire essay
time allotted to plan out your essay, doing
brainstorming or a simple outline. For an hour long
exam, 10 minutes is a good time to use to THINK
and PLAN rather than to just start writing immediately.
PLAN YOUR ESSAY OUT WELL.
C. Ask clarifying questions about
what is allowed for the essay: notes, handouts,
electronic dictionaries, etc. |
| 3.
If you get “stuck,” if
you get writer’s block, for example, don’t
stare off into space and get frustrated. Go back
to your PLANNING SHEET and write out your ideas.
If you stare off into space and feel intimidated
because everyone else is “jamming,”
you will only feel more frustrated and get more
of a sense of writer’s block. |
| 4.
In most in-class essays, unlike
a regular formal essay, a lengthy, drawn out introduction
is not recommended. Most instructors expect you
to cut to the chase and provide a specific and well-defined
thesis statement, exactly answering the topic prompt.
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| 5.
Don’t “bag” and “jet
out of class” just to get the essay
over and done with. Proofread and edit to the best
of your abilities. Read your essay in your head,
silently. Edit where appropriate. If using folder
paper, most instructors prefer that you use this
type of editing mark rather than sloppily adding
tons of White-Out or Liquid Paper to your essay.
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| 6.
Take pride in your efforts. Instructors
know and can sense when an in class essay has been
done 'just to get it out of the way' versus performed
'with passion and diligence.' |
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