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An example paper is the most basic type of academic writing. Unlike description and narration, illustration papers focus less on the writer and more on the world. These papers rely on facts. An example paper contains a debatable issue and the examples needed to support the author's point of view. Your paper needs a thesis statement. This statement should contain a point or idea you want to illustrate, explain, argue or prove and provide a general idea of how you'll support this point or idea. All of the examples you use in the body of your paper should reinforce your view. For example, perhaps you want to write a paper about characteristics of good writers. You decide that good writers should possess an eye for detail, a facility with language, an understanding of human nature, and a willingness to revise and edit their work. In other words, you will explain your idea of a good writer by using these characteristics. For your thesis, you could say, "Good writers possess an eye for detail, a facility with language, an understanding of human nature and a willingness to revise and edit their work." In the body of your paper, you should explain what you mean by these characteristics and provide examples of writers who have these traits. You could also include quotes from their work to support your point of view.

Example/Illustration Assignment:

You may also choose to write a paper based on one of the following general topics. You need to provide your own thesis statement and sufficient examples to support your point (ex.: Thesis: People should attend college because it prepares them for high-paying careers, exposes them to other viewpoints, and allows them to meet new people).

1. Respond to an essay in your textbook (support the author's claims or refute them)
2. Demonstrate a change in a segment of society (greater equality for women, increase in racism or crime, etc.)
3. Provide three or more reasons to do something (go to college, visit a certain place, etc.)
4. Interpret a poem, story, movie, etc. (explain the theme or message, etc.)
5. Illustrate a trend in society or pop culture (the increasing popularity of rap, reality television shows, television violence, etc.)
6. Provide examples of laws or social codes that affect your life
7. Show a conflict in society (rich versus poor, young versus old, etc.)
8. Choose three or more qualities to describe a famous person or an aspect of society
9. Explain at least three things you must know/understand to be successful in your major or career

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