Essay Topics for our By-the-Book Essay

Development by Example Topics:

1. Heroes today are merely media creations rather than truly admirable people.

2. First impressions are often the best/worst means of judging people.

3. Failure is a better teacher than success.

4. The willingness to undertake adventure is a necessary part of a happy existence.

5. Consumers are often at the mercy of unscrupulous companies.

6. Failure to keep my mouth shut (or some other bad habit) leads me into trouble.

7. Job hunting today is a difficult process.

8. Good deeds can backfire (or make a wonderful difference).

9. High Schools do/do not adequately prepare students for college.

10. One important event can change the course of a life.

Wyrick, Jean. Steps to Writing Well. Ninth. New York: Thomson, 2005. (185).

Development by Definition topics:

1. A current slang, campus, local, or popular-culture expression.

2. A slob (or some other undesirable kind of family member or friend.

3. A good/bad teacher, store clerk, coach, friend, parent, date, or significant other.

4. A social label (“Goth,” “Prep,” “Skater,” etc.)

5. Self-respect

6. Prejudice or discrimination

7. A controversial political idea or term

8. An important historical movement or group

Wyrick, Jean. Steps to Writing Well. Ninth. New York: Thomson, 2005. (236).