Texas: Cayenne Pepper and Skillet
Process Analysis: Sample Essay
“Texas Chili”
This essay is one that I have used for many years. It is an actual student essay that was published in an old composition textbook that I used for several years. I like for my students to read this essay because it incorporates several good techniques – and a few “what-not-to-do’s.”
❑ A good attention getter in the form of personal thoughts (Note: If you are really creative with your topic, I will allow you to include personal thoughts on your topic.) The use of personal pronouns must be calculated, not accidental. ❑ Note how the author uses transitional sentences at the end of the paragraphs. He gives what is known as “internal previews.” In other words, he gives the audience a “sneak peek” at the next point. ❑ Note how the author has solid topic sentences. This is so important to the understanding of the concept of the process. ❑ The author uses great transitional expressions and signposts (i.e. number words that keep the reader abreast of where he or she is in the process) ❑ The author intersperses “warnings” to the reader about situations that he or she will encounter. These warnings are vital to the process analysis essay. ❑ Note that the author does not, however, summarize the main points of the process. This is important to the complete understanding of the process. Remember that you must tell your readers what you are going to say, you say it, and then you remind them of what you said!
Texas Chili
By
Andy Savage
Some people identify Texas with cowboys, horses, oil, or even J.R. Ewing – but not me. I think of the great food of Texas, and that food is chili. A staple dish in my household, chili is a dish with a long history. From the “pioneer” days of the early West to today, chili remains a favorite among many in the West, but particularly in Texas. My chili recipe is based on the contributions of friends,
“Texas Chili”
This essay is one that I have used for many years. It is an actual student essay that was published in an old composition textbook that I used for several years. I like for my students to read this essay because it incorporates several good techniques – and a few “what-not-to-do’s.”
❑ A good attention getter in the form of personal thoughts (Note: If you are really creative with your topic, I will allow you to include personal thoughts on your topic.) The use of personal pronouns must be calculated, not accidental. ❑ Note how the author uses transitional sentences at the end of the paragraphs. He gives what is known as “internal previews.” In other words, he gives the audience a “sneak peek” at the next point. ❑ Note how the author has solid topic sentences. This is so important to the understanding of the concept of the process. ❑ The author uses great transitional expressions and signposts (i.e. number words that keep the reader abreast of where he or she is in the process) ❑ The author intersperses “warnings” to the reader about situations that he or she will encounter. These warnings are vital to the process analysis essay. ❑ Note that the author does not, however, summarize the main points of the process. This is important to the complete understanding of the process. Remember that you must tell your readers what you are going to say, you say it, and then you remind them of what you said!
Texas Chili
By
Andy Savage
Some people identify Texas with cowboys, horses, oil, or even J.R. Ewing – but not me. I think of the great food of Texas, and that food is chili. A staple dish in my household, chili is a dish with a long history. From the “pioneer” days of the early West to today, chili remains a favorite among many in the West, but particularly in Texas. My chili recipe is based on the contributions of friends,