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Originally Posted by CGK_883
Hi All,
I am new here, and starting with zero credits. I have been out of school almost 30 years and I'm one of those people who can study and know a subject well, but when it comes to test time I go blank.
My first CLEP is English Composition with Essay (because the school requires the essay part).
I bought the book Cracking the CLEP and I was feeling really good about taking this test until I read the part about the essay.
What on earth do you do if you are given a blurb to write about on your essay and you know absolutely nothing about it? The example essays they show in this book sound so professional and way out of my realm as far as producing something of this caliber.
I am totally distraught at this point. My exam date is already set and I've already paid the money so I can't back out.
Can anyone offer any assistance on what to do if you know nothing about the topic they give you, and maybe don't even quite understand the topic?
Any help is greatly appreciated.
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I'm happy to help! Google "5 paragraph essay" and pull up an outline. You can use this format. It's very appropriate.
Your topic will be something like "in the expression 'what comes around goes around' do you agree or disagree with this?"
It won't be about a thing or event like the civil war or world hunger! So, they are not testing your knowledge of a subject,
they are testing your ability to follow the structure (proper format) of a college level essay.
Again, use the 5 paragraph style. 5 paragraphs, each paragraph should have 5 sentences. Simple!
Whatever you are going to say in your paper- think of 3 reasons to support it. These don't have to be anything other than rational. Meaning, if it makes sense you are fine. Keep it simple and keep it clear. You can use personal experience, work experience, even your knowledge of other subjects- just don't go too deep.
Your opening sentence in the first paragraph should include your position (I agree with the expression....or While most people would agree with this expression I disagree....) Then use the remaining sentences in your first paragraph to hit on (or hint at) your 3 reasons.
In paragraphs 2,3, and 4- each gets one of your reasons. Only 5 sentences per paragraph, it's less than you think.
Last paragraph, send it home- in other words recap what you just said. Start with a closing phrase like "In conclusion" or "Finally" so they are sure you are in your wrap-up.
When I did my essay- On scrap paper I wrote out my 3 points/reasons/etc and stuck to them. It's easy to get too involved when you are writing-it's easy to ramble in an effort to REALLY connect the dots- that's not the point. Keep it clear and crisp- on task and to the point.
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You don't have a ton of time- so worry about the format and not trying to impress your reader with your brilliance- you'll get sidetracked.
Why don't you try the topic above for practice (What goes around comes around- do you agree or disagree with that expression?) you can post it here or send me a private email. Good Luck!