Best of Miami Portfolios 2001 - Units.muohio.edu
Best of Miami Portfolios 2001 - Units.muohio.edu
Best of Miami Portfolios 2001 - Units.muohio.edu
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An Explanatory, Exploratory, or Persuasive Essay<br />
Generally speaking, essays in this category should be focused, informative treatments <strong>of</strong><br />
specific subjects. This essay should examine multiple points <strong>of</strong> view and show strong<br />
evidence <strong>of</strong> critical thinking, awareness <strong>of</strong> audience, and attention to social context. If<br />
secondary sources are used, they must be documented correctly. This explanatory,<br />
exploratory, or persuasive essay should have a title.<br />
This essay provides the author with a wide variety <strong>of</strong> choices, ranging from explorations <strong>of</strong><br />
historical or political subjects to explanations <strong>of</strong> scientific processes to editorials or commentaries<br />
about controversial topics, and it can also be a difficult piece to select because there are so many<br />
options. The most successful pieces in this category are focused discussions <strong>of</strong> specific topics. If<br />
the essay is meant to explore a subject fully, it will probably include carefully selected supporting<br />
information. If the essay is meant to persuade, it should include appropriate support and discussion<br />
and not rely on opinion alone.<br />
Abby Olexa, in “Sacrificing All to Save a Few,” skillfully incorporates multiple<br />
sources to thoroughly examine both sides <strong>of</strong> the school voucher issue. In her essay, “The Heart <strong>of</strong><br />
the Problem,” Bethany Pierce explores the subject <strong>of</strong> school violence. Through her use <strong>of</strong> both<br />
strong personal opinion and outside sources, Pierce examines the school reforms underway and<br />
suggests an alternative course <strong>of</strong> action. Kristin Price’s essay, “Art Department—More than Just<br />
Pretty Pictures,” is an editorial examining the involvement <strong>of</strong> an art department in a high school<br />
community. Price outlines the history and contributions <strong>of</strong> the art department to persuade her reader<br />
that the department plays a vital role at the school. And, in her essay, “Blaming Irresponsibility,”<br />
Stephanie Wood provides important details to persuade her reader that Firestone tires should take<br />
responsibility for recent problems.<br />
For more examples <strong>of</strong> the explanatory, exploratory, persuasive essay, see the<br />
Complete <strong>Portfolios</strong> in this collection.<br />
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