Extended Definition Essay
Definition
In an essay of definition, you clarify a complex concept,
an abstract idea, or a complicated ideal. (Ex.:
inflation, hope, democracy) As a writer, you will put boundaries around
a term, concept, or idea. To develop and
extend a definition, you can give a dictionary definition, make a comparison,
provide a fitting quotation, offer a negative definition (tell what it is not),
and so on. The effectiveness of your
essay depends upon your ability to understand your subject, to know what really
sets it apart from all other members (related ideas) in its class. In an extended definition, your explanation
will limit, distinguish, or clarify a topic.
Thesis Development
The thesis statement names the subject of the definition
and makes it apparent that the term will be defined. Sometimes a thesis names the class to which
the subject belongs and gives the particular features or categories that sets
it apart. In addition, a thesis may
reflect the writer’s purpose or attitude forward the term, concept, idea, or
ideal.
Organization
In your introduction, you will set up the order for your
paper. In your brainstorming and
pre-writing, you should come up with distinguishing characteristics for your
topic. Do these fall neatly into
categories? Consider giving examples or
opinions (quotes) by experts. The
extended definition essay does not require a specific organizational structure. You may find yourself incorporating a variety
of organizational patterns.
Tips on Writing
Consider giving
examples, including those of what your subject is not. Is it similar but different to something
else?
Can your find
concrete ways to explain abstract ideas?
Analogies or object lessons work well.
Pitfalls to Avoid
Avoid giving only the dictionary
definition. Consider including the
denotations (objective perceptions) and the connotations (emotional
associations) with your subject. These
can be both positive and negative.
Avoid circular
definitions. Don’t use the term to
define it. For example, you wouldn’t
define a mystery novel as something mysterious.
Avoid
oversimplification. Dig deep into your
topic.
Essay Guidelines
Due dates: Pre-Write due October 16; Rough Draft due
October 23; Final due November 6
Essay
length: 700 – 900 words (about 2 – 3
pages)
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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