Essay Assignment #1

English 099: Introduction to Composition
Davidson–Assignment 1: Explaining a process

For this essay, you should explain a process that you have encountered in a work environment. In a 2-3 page essay, tell the reader how to do something at work. You should also tell the reader why the steps are necessary. For example, if you write about “how to learn to drive,” you will tell the reader that it is necessary to study the road signs given in the state handbook. You tell the reader, “you need to know the meaning of all the signs, because if you don’t, you will not pass the written exam.” You might add that, “these signs are the language of the road, and they will keep you safe.” By giving the reader a specific step that answers how to do something, you give them clear instruction. By telling why, you convince them it is a necessary part of the process.
To get started, ask yourself these questions. What are the specific steps in doing the job? In what order should the employee complete these steps? Are these steps necessary to complete the job? Why are they necessary? What are the consequences if a step is left out or performed out of turn?
The most successful essay will go beyond a list of steps, or “cookbook writing.” They will explain both how and why. To bring life to the essay, you can provide the reader an example from your experience. For instance, “One time I forgot to wipe the counters tops before I mopped the floor. I looked at the counter and it was covered in bread crumbs, diced onions, and something that looked like melted cheese. I knew I would have to wipe them off, which got the floor dirty. I had to mop again.” Brief examples will illustrate the process and show why something needs to be done in the order you say it should be done.