Write a 3-4-page essay on the following topic:
Compare “Public and Private Language” by Richard Rodriguez with “Mother Tongue” by Amy Tan to show that one essay is more effective or more convincing than the other. You must not discuss whether you agree/disagree with the writer’s position (or how you feel about that position). Your own essay should offer an argument about the two essays you are evaluating; your opinion on the issue they are writing about is not relevant and should not be included in your essay! Remember that your purpose is to show that one author writes a more effective and convincing essay than the other.
You might want to consider the following questions:
- Which essay more clearly states its position on the issue?
- Which writer is more effective in introducing, structuring, and concluding his/her essay?
- Which essay has stronger, more persuasive examples and explanations?
Helpful Tips
- Read the 2 essays several times, and decide which essay is the more convincing, the more effective, the more well written.
- Write a working thesis statement which expresses which essay you found more effective.
- Determine the points you will discuss.
- Give each point more or less equal treatment.
- Select the block or the point-by-point method. See Comparing/Contrasting
- Use transitions such as in other words, for instance, for example, in addition, however, in contrast, on the other hand, on the contrary, similarly.
- See Prewriting and Planning Essay # 2
- See Tips for Writing about Literature