THE DEFINITION ESSAY
The Definition Essay defines a word, term, or concept from a subjective perspective. It is an extended definition that goes beyond the denotative meaning of what is being defined to the connotative meaning.
Because your personal meaning may differ from the general concept, your goal is to make your meaning clear for your readers. One way to do make your definition clear is through the use of specific, detailed examples that explain or clarify your definition. From your paper, your readers should be able to understand your perspective.
ASSIGNMENT
Identify a relationship you are prepared to define in terms of ideal qualities or characteristics. For example, you might choose to define the ideal parent, instructor, spouse, child, employer, or any other relationship for which you have solid examples to define and describe your ideal. You will define this relationship by using specific, detailed examples that support your thesis. These examples should be representative of the qualities or characteristics you are explaining.
Your audience is composed of the other students in your class. Remember that your classmates might define the relationship you have chosen from very different perspectives. You will need to provide them with sufficient explanation so that they understand your perspective.
FORMAT AND REQUIREMENTS
-Double spaced, 12-point sans serif font (ex: Arial or Verdana), 1” margins