English I Writing Assignment #2: My Name Descriptive
In this unit on descriptive
writing, you will be asked to write three different drafts exploring different
subjects. We will focus on various writing skills related to descriptive
writing. From the three drafts you complete, you will select one for extensive
revision and turn in a three-page final draft following MLA Style for a grade.
(100 points) Points will be awarded throughout the writing process as well.
What is in a name? That which we call a rose by any
other name would smell as sweet . . . .
—Juliet,
from Romeo and Juliet
While Juliet was trying to
make a case that a name was not connected to a person’s identity, most of use
would probably disagree. We closely associate who we are with our name because
it gives each of us a unique identity. Nicknames can be used as a sign of
social acceptance or rejection. You might have a name that has the been passed on from previous generations. Some of us
have a common name while others can be rather rare or even unusual. The way our
names are spelled also defines who we are. If your name is Deborah, you will
not identify yourself with Debra. Correct pronunciation is equally as important
for many people.
Pre-writing
After you listen to the
excerpt from House on Mango Street, I
want you to think about your name and consider the following suggestions. Jot
down as many ideas/statements about your beliefs as you can.
·
How or why were you
given your name?
·
After you were
born, what names were considered and then rejected by your parents? Would you
have preferred these other choices? Why or why not?
·
What was your
name to be if you had been born the opposite sex? How do you feel about that?
·
What nicknames
can be associated with your name? Does anyone use them? Do you like them better
than your given name?
·
What would you rename
yourself if you were given the opportunity today?
·
Has the spelling
of your name created any problems for you?
·
Does your name
have historical significance?
·
Was your name part
of a trend at the time of your birth, or are you the only one you know with
your name?
·
Does your middle
name suit you?
·
Does your name
embarrass you? Why?
·
Do you know
others with your name who give you positive or
negative feelings about your own name?
·
Do you wish you
had a nickname?
·
What have you
been called that makes you feel special?
·
How did you get
your nickname?
·
Some names have
no way to be shortened. How do you feel about that?
·
Do your parents
or siblings have pet names for you?
·
Have any mispronunciations
of your name by a young child stuck even after they learned to say it
correctly?
·
What other
personal experiences associated with your name come to mind?
Drafting
Once your list is complete,
look over your findings and determine which ideas/experiences can be turned
into an engaging narrative that will reveal your feelings about your unique
identity. Focus on using descriptive words and phrases to give the reader good
visuals and more importantly, emotional connections to your story. Use the notes
and handouts you have been given in class to help you. You may need to discuss
several ideas to indicate the significance of your name in terms of your
identity or you could focus on one to accomplish this. Your draft should be at
least two typed pages. Should you select this assignment for final submission,
you will need to revise your work to be at least three pages in length. By
putting more work into your draft at this time, you will save significant time
and effort later when you need to meet your deadline.
*This assignment is adapted from Dr. Nancy Zuercher’s
presentation developed for the 2004 Dakota Writing Project held at the