Essay 1

English 0950

Read the following readings from Models for Writers:

• “Something’s Off” by Robin Marantz Henig, page 146
• “The Barrio” by Robert Ramirez, page 272
• “Subway Station,” by Gilbert Highet, page 353
• “Wyoming Clouds” by Verlyn Klinkenborg, page 357

Choose one of these readings and write an essay of at least 350 words that responds to the
reading. Engage the author in a conversation about his/her essay and explain how your own
personal experience is similar to and/or different than what the author says. Discuss a specific
place and time in your life that relates to what you have read.

Begin your essay with a succinct summary of the reading, building to a clear thesis that explains
the relationship between this and your experience. The body of your essay will discuss specific
aspects of the reading that are important in the context of your experience. Describe your place
and experience in appropriate and relevant detail. Then end your essay with a conclusion that
effectively wraps up and revisits your thesis.

We will hold a drafting workshop in class on Tuesday, 27 January; bring your planning materials
to class to work on a rough draft of your essay. Bring your draft to class on Thursday, 29
January, when we will hold a revision workshop. Use the feedback you receive from your
classmates to prepare a final draft.

The finished essay is due to me via email at rdturner@cnm.edu on Tuesday, 3 February, and
graded essays will be returned by the end of the day on Tuesday, 10 February.