Essay #1 - Obstacle in Life

Ok, your first essay is to write about an obstacle you or someone you know has overcome. Here are some things to think about:

• title - be creative and have it have some connection to your essay topic
• subject - this obstacle does not need to be HUGE or life changing; think small; think about a memory you have (those tend to stick with you), think about family stories...
• Thesis - Helen Keller's thesis was her first sentence and her intro paragraph was only 3 sentences - but they were poignant and directive. Be clear.
• Body Paragraphs - Show, don't tell. Use metaphors. Look at how you or the person was before and after the obstacles. What changes occurred? How are they different?
• Re-read Helen Keller's essay and look at how she structured it. Very clear, precise, and unified.

Welcome!

This is going to be a GREAT year (2010-11)!

This blog will be helpful in a number of ways for your English class. There is a calendar link that will outline the 9th grade curriculum so you will know when major assignments are due. The English syllabus will also be posted. so make sure you come back here to check it out.

Can't wait to meet you!


Ms. Strickland