Bridgewater 1

Essay 1: Explaining a Topic

We recently looked at a few Ted Talk videos, such as Johnny Lees Free or cheap Wii remote hacks and
Anan Varmas The first 21 days of a bees life. The first video explained how to do something. The
second video explained a topic and its importance to our lives.
Ive always enjoyed learning from other people, especially my students! For Essay 1, Id like you to teach
me something you know how to do or explain a topic that is interesting to you.
Criteria youll be graded on

A focused, well-defined topic in your introduction

o Use an example, anecdote, statistic, or interesting quote to get started.
o Provide enough detail about the situation so that someone who has not much
experience with your topic can still understand your explanation.
A well-presented, detailed explanation, either explaining how to do something or informing me
of an important issue to you
o Use a variety of strategies to explain a concept, such as definition, classification, process
narration, and cause-effect reasoning.
A clear, logical organization
o Use transition words like however and next.
o Repeat key terms and their synonyms or use pronouns (it, they) to refer to the key term.
o Refer back to earlier examples, often bringing your paper or paragraph full circle by
referring to an example at the beginning of the paper or paragraph.
English grammar and vocabulary

Sources: if applicable, but not necessary

Images: if applicable, but not necessary
Format: APA
Page Length: 3-4