LONG COMPOSITION: PROFILE ESSAY

Long composition. Profile essay : 1,000 word minimum  FORMAT: MLA format with Works Cited page. Either citing the interview you conducted OR the three-sources consulted). DESCRIPTION:  In a profile essay, the writer offers an extended look at one person, place, or thing; and the subject of the writing is that person, not the author. Like the personal essay, the profile relies heavily on narrative techniques (sensory detail, dialogue, scene, exploded moments, and thought shots), as well as on observation and interview as sources of information.  Using the research and information you gather on your subject, compose a profile essay that approaches your subject from a specific angle.

In other words, do not simply report the history of your subject or biography; make sure you pick an aspect of your profile subject to focus and make interesting for the reader. Your profile essay should include the following:  • An angle or “big idea” about the profile subject. This is similar to a thesis statement, but it does not have to occur in the first paragraph. By the end of your essay, the reader should understand your big idea—the main message you wish to convey about your profile subject.  • A clear, creative, and interesting title.  • An exploded moment or catchy introduction to draw the reader in and to show the contour subject in a creative way.  • A physical description of the profile subject and other observations you’ve made that illuminate their environment, personality, or behavior.

Further Description

Relevant background information.  • Anecdotes (mini-stories), the building blocks of a profile. The profile subject’s voice. Please include at least four quotations from your interview. Try to avoid inserting really long quotations in big chunks. You can tell us some of the information in your own words without directly quoting your subject. If you profile an item or a place, you must cite three sources in your essay. See my section on MLA Research and Format on Moodle.  • A conclusion that leaves a lasting impression of the subject and reinforces your big idea.   A few more pointers:  • Make sure your presentation of the contour subject is ultimately positive, or at the very least non-judgmental.

 It’s okay to place yourself in an exploded moment or use first person, but make sure you don’t overtake the focus at any point.   • Try to disguise the interview or research process as much as possible. • Since the organization of a profile is unlike other essays, transitions are important.  • Vary your sentence structure and use action verbs whenever possible.  • Proofread for punctuation and grammar.

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