Identifying themes pages

Section Two: Identifying themes

Think of your favorite amusement park. It may have sections that are themed or based on favorite characters or movies. When you are walking around or on a ride, you can associate the experience with the familiar reference.

Themed essays are very similar. With a themed essay, you are given a reference and asked to expand or explain it. Most collegiate scholarship essays are themed. They are asking for information or a reflection from you, the applicant.

These themes are given in detailed prompts. Essay prompts provide some information about the subject, and/or can ask a question that requests students to write about a certain topic in the form of an essay. Reading the prompt, a couple of times will provide a clearer understanding of what information is being requested.

Notate any words you may not understand. Read their definitions and then place in the prompt using your own words for their meanings. This will help garner a stronger

understanding before you begin your writing plan. As you read the prompt ask yourself these questions:

❖What am I being asked to do? ❖Who is my audience? ❖What sources or ideas do I need to include? ❖What concepts do I need to understand? ❖What do I already know on the topic?

Once you can answer the questions, you can start writing. Start with an outline or a mind map. These will help you keep your essay concise and focused.

Learning Activity Four:

Identifying Essay Themes:

For each prompt you will identify the theme or required information for the essay. Write a few lines describing what you would write about this theme.

1. The DeElla Wiley Triumph Scholarship was established for students with multiple interests and skills that excel in many areas.

If you are applying for this scholarship, what would you write about?

2. Kyra Pfeiffer is a pioneer in technical editing and writing. This scholarship is for the advancement of women in this field.

If you are applying for this scholarship, what would you write about?

3. Sister Linda dedicates her life to serving others. This scholarship awards students that serve their community.

If you are applying for this scholarship, what would you write about?

4. Raksha Deshpande overcame many obstacles to achieve her goal of studying at Auburn University. This scholarship is awarded to determined students.

If you are applying for this scholarship, what would you write about?

Learning Activity Five: What “type” of essay am I?

Think about something you had to overcome. Did this keep you from participating in activities? Was there a loss of income or financial stability in your household? Did you or a family member have physical impairments that created limitations? All of these are considered hardships and this theme is used in many scholarship essays. Briefly talk about this hardship from your point of view. Be thoughtful and REFLECTIVE.

Priyanka Chopra spoke on recent events in developed countries that are unable to provide equality between men and women. Numerous countries give more priority to men than women. Eventually, women are deprived of their basic right to education. Is this an issue in your country? How can changes be made? What are the long-term effects?

Answer briefly below: