Search for Happiness, Meaning, and Fulfillment Mini-Unit (and the college essay)

So, in the next few weeks we are working on two things 1) your college essay and 2) finding or making meaning and happiness in your life. Both can be challenging, but we're going to work on them.

Last night's homework...

Brainstorm three possible college essay topics

Talk to someone about your college essay narrative assignment and see if they can help you chose a personal story to tell. Remember, you want to show a good or mature or self aware side of you without sounding like you're bragging. It should, most of all, somehow help the college admission's staff see you as a human being they can connect with.

Once, you have chosen a prompt, begin writing a rough draft.  Finish at least two paragraphs, and bring it to school tomorrow.  I will show you a couple of writing moves tomorrow which you can apply to your evolving draft if you so desire.

Finish reading the college essay sample (written by Katherine Glass) we started reading the other day. Assess it using the guiding questions.

Identify one snapshot and thoughtshot.  Try to have a mix in your writing.

Review a less successful essay

Tonight's homework:

Finish typing your first draft of your college essay.  It is due tomorrow. (up to 10 points credit)
10 points for a typed essay - of at least 400 words; do not exceed 650 words.  
5 points if it is not typed
0 points if it is too short or you have nothing

Tomorrow...
Discuss the strong example
Look at a weaker example
Exploding the moment
Thoughtshot vs. snapshots

Self-edit your essay based on mini-lesson

Today we focus on the meaning and happiness...

Search for Happiness, Meaning, and Fulfillment Mini-Unit