Directions for Descriptive Essay Assignment - Due October 7

Descriptive Essay Assignment

English 1

Due: October 7, 2013

Steps for this Assignment:

11) Pick a piece of artwork from the list that is given out in class on 9/25/2013. Each piece of artwork can be found at the Yale Art Gallery in New Haven.

22) Go to the Yale Art Gallery to observe the piece of artwork you chose. It’s free to get into the museum, and parking on Sundays is free. The Yale Art Gallery is located at: 1111 Chapel Street in New Haven. The museum’s hours are:

Tuesday-Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday & Sundays: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. It is closed on Mondays.  More information is available on their web site at: http://artgallery.yale.edu

33)   Take a notebook and writing tool with you when you go to observe the artwork. While you are there write down what you think about the artwork. How does it look? Does there seem to be a hidden meaning behind it? Is it large? Does it bring any emotion to you?

  4)  Write your descriptive essay.

What you need to include in your essay:

Introduction: What is the piece of artwork you are describing? Who created it? When was it created?

Body Paragraphs: Describe the piece of artwork. Things to think about and possibly include in your essay: What is the artwork of?; What period is if from?; What type of media is used to create it?; What do you see when you look at it?; Is it small/large?; What type of impact does it have on the viewer?; Do you like or dislike the artwork? Why?; Does it remind you of another piece of artwork or artist? Or anything else that comes to mind when observing the artwork.

Conclusion: Restate of thesis/introduction/final thoughts on the piece of artwork. Would you recommend this piece to others?

Essay Format

Essay should be typed in 12 point font in Times Roman or Arial font. Use 1” margins and it should be single spaced and 2-3 pages.

Essay is due October 7. I will not accept late essays. The grade is worth 100 points and is based on the following:

1)   Clear essay introduction. Introduction should state what your piece of artwork is and who the artist is. – 20 points

2)   Clear body and description of the artwork and what you thought about the piece – 20 points

3)   Clear conclusion with restatement of thesis – 20 points

4)   Spelling, grammar, complete sentences – make sure to proofread your work prior to handing it in – 20 points

5)   Typed, single spaced, 2-3 pages – 20 points

Make sure to read and follow the directions.

Note: All essays will be returned to students on October 14, 2013. You will have the option to rewrite your essay and make suggested changes. If you opt to do this, you need to hand the revised essay in no later than October 21 with the original essay. Handing in a revised essay will give you the option to increase your final grade for this assignment.

Questions? E-mail me at taracantore@yahoo.com