Resource Author
LeCluyseResource Description
E 318M: Intro. to the English Language
Instructor: Chris LeCluyse
Analytical Essay
Over the course of the next two weeks, we will study the origins of prescriptive approaches to English grammar, foreground the assumptions of such approaches, and examine some of the most common prescriptive rules. Even though some of these ideas are three centuries old and the formal study of language has become descriptive, prescriptive grammar is still popular today. In this essay, explain why you think prescriptive grammar has persisted and why people continue to find it useful or meaningful. Support your argument by citing the history and assumptions of prescriptivism as explained in Chapters 2 and 3 of Riley and Parker’s English Grammar. No outside research is required.
Suggestions for Invention, Organization, and Revision
One way to begin planning this essay is to identify particular causes for the persistence of prescriptivism: historical or educational developments, political beliefs, social dynamics, or a combination of factors. To argue your case effectively, you’ll need to demonstrate that the particular causes you identify have contributed to the longevity of prescriptive approaches. Although information from English Grammar will provide you with facts, your own reasoning is key to helping your reader (me, in this case) understand the connections between these causes and their ultimate effect.
You may find it useful to organize your paper according to cause, dedicating each section to identifying a particular factor and explaining how it has helped prescriptivism persist. Each section can consist of as many or as few paragraphs as you see fit: the organization of your paper should suit your purposes, not conform to a predetermined format such as the five-paragraph essay.
The most effective way to write this essay is through a process of revision: getting your ideas down first, revising the substance and organization of your argument, editing for clarity, and finally proofreading for word choice, punctuation, and spelling. Although you will not have to turn in a rough draft of this essay, I will review and respond to any drafts you would like to show me. You can also work with a writing consultant at the Undergraduate Writing Center (UWC) at any stage of the writing process.
Format
• Your essay should be three to five pages long, word-processed, and double-spaced.
• Cite information from English Grammar parenthetically, in accordance with MLA style, following the names of the textbook’s authors by a space and the page number: (Riley and Parker 00). Information about MLA style is available online at http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/research/r_mla.html.
Grading Criteria
Your essay will be evaluated according to the following criteria, listed in order of importance:
1. Thoroughness and persuasiveness of your analysis
2. Quality of evidence supporting your analysis
3. Cohesiveness of organization (includes structuring paragraphs effectively and making transitions between paragraphs and sentences)
4. Clarity and conciseness of sentences
5. Appropriateness of word choice, grammatical inflections, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling to formal academic writing
A grade of “C” indicates satisfactory completion of these requirements. “B” indicates additional effort and insight beyond those requirements. “A” indicates exceptional effort in conceiving, writing, and revising your work.