Essay #1

Exploring Our Personal History: The Photo Essay

Rough Draft Due: Wed, 9/5

Final Draft Due: Mon, 9/10

Purpose: To create a finished writing project that explains the significance and provides background information on the photo. Writers should also exhibit attention to detail and description, effectively utilize narrative form, and engage in reflective writing.

Essay Prompt:  For Essay #1, select one personal photograph that you would like to present the “back story” to. What is the photo’s history? Why is it dear to you? What is its importance? How did it come into being? Where is it from? How does this photo help define who you are and/or were? What has changed in your life since the photo was taken? What has remained the same?

Suggestions and Treatment: The photo you choose does not necessarily have to be of you or taken by you, though it can if you wish. Family photos, photos of objects, or photos of places can be used. What is most important is that the photo is personal and is one that you feel an interest in discussing. One source from class should be included in this project. Format: Please follow MLA guidelines; double-spaced; 12 point TNR or Arial font. The minimum length for text in this project is two complete pages of text. In this assignment, there are three major parts, only TWO of which count toward page length: The actual text of the writing project that subscribes to essay format, and the caption.

Captions: A caption should be formatted in the same way (font and size) as the essay portion and refer to the photographs included, as well as the overall idea(s) of the essay. Captions count toward total page length.

The photo: Visuals do not count towards the length requirement. Things to consider:

What is it about my photo that contains a “personal touch?”

How can I articulate the connection between the visual and my thoughts on the page? Why is this visual meaningful? What do I want it to accomplish? Where is the photo kept? What does its environment say about its importance? What emotions did you feel when taking or receiving the photo? What emotions do you experience when you look at the photo?

 Note: Please do NOT use an original photograph for this assignment as I cannot accept responsibility for originals. Attach photocopies only.