Personal Commentary
Definition
A
commentary is essentially a thoughtful reaction to some aspect of life. Similar to an editorial in which a writer attacks or applauds a specific
newsworthy item, commentaries speak about some aspect of culture, society,
beliefs, etc. Unlike editorials, they
are usually more even-handed and reflective.
Current affairs, trends, developments, business dealings, politics, etc.
are all good source of subject matter for a personal commentary.
Thesis Statements
Select the
main point and the focus you want to convey.
Determine your opinion about this topic and craft a thesis statement
that expresses it clearly.
Organization of the
essay
In an essay
of this kind, you will need to give some background information, especially if
it is a complicated topic. This should
be brief and give important information that will connect with the rest of your
essay. Include not only concrete details
that support your thesis, but your personal opinions and the reasons behind
those opinions.
Tips on Planning
– Focus
your efforts. A topic that is too broad
will be hard to cover in a short essay.
Also, too many details confuse the reader.
– Present
your experience or information in an engaging way so that your readers can appreciate
its importance; present your ideas in an organized way.
Essay Guidelines
– Due
dates: Rough Draft due September 4;
Final Draft due September 18
– Essay
length: at least 300 words (about 1
page)
– Rough
drafts can be typed or hand-written, but must be double-spaced.
– Final
draft format:
– Typed
(if this is not possible, please let me know)
– 1
inch margins
– Name
and date on the upper right hand corner
– Number
the pages on the lower right hand corner
– Title
centered above the text of the essay
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