Character Sketch

The relationship between Norman and Paul is full of conflicts but still extremely close. Even though he is the younger brother, Paul has a profound influence on Norman's life.

This essay should be two to three pages, typed, double spaced. (500 words or so)

To write this essay, think of a person who has been important in your life. Then introduce this person to your readers. Give the reader a strong image of the person, how he/she talks, ways of doing things, his/her value system. A character sketch is only a snap shot. Don't try to write a biography.

To write this character sketch, tell a story about one encounter you had with him or her. Describe the place where this encounter occurred, narrow in on things in the setting that are representative of the person you are describing. You can show your reader how the person was dressed and then tell what happened this one time as you spent time together. Include details such as the person's gestures or facial expressions.

For this piece of writing you should include dialogue. As closely as possible, use direct quotations for your dialogue, so try to remember things your person said.

Before you write this essay, decide what kind of emotional reaction you want the reader to have toward this person, and select details that will help create that reaction. Don't make broad characterizing statements (she was gentle and kind), instead, give details that suggest general characteristics (she picked up the injured kitten and wrapped it gently in a warmed terry cloth towel). Let the reader draw his/her own conclusions.

As with all of your writings, use your writing group for brainstorming, response and revising before emailing your essay to me.

For an excellent example go to: http://www.engl.niu.edu/wac/grandma.html