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Good Examples vs. Bad ExamplesHere are the examples most students use:Martin Luther King, Jr.
Hitler
Gandhi
Rosa Parks
Huck Finn
The Great Gatsby
The Scarlett LetterThese topics are certainly not off limits, but it might behoove you to get a bit more creative with your examples.
Common Grammatical Errors ................................................................
The errors that occur most frequently on the essay are pronoun errors, sentence fragments, and run-ons.
To avoid grammar mistakes, edit your essay as you go. Don’t get so hung up that you don’t push forward and
finish in the allotted time, but reread each paragraph before moving on to the next. Our hands can’t keep up
with our speedy heads, so slow down and give your hands a chance to catch up.
Pronoun Errors: Pronoun Ambiguity is the most common mistake I see. Be cautious of using the infamous this,
that, or it. Make sure the reader can identify what “it” is, or who “he” is. It is better to be repetitive than ambiguous.
Note: Don’t be too broad with your examples. WWII should not be used as an example. Italy’s
role in WWII would be a better example because it is more specific and narrow. Don’t talk
about the American Revolution; rather talk about a specific battle in the American Revolution.Examples of Pronoun Ambiguity/Agreement:
Percy succeeds in returning the bolts to Zeus and his view
changes.
Many people would rather be honest than tell lies. However, it
is not always bad, because people can lie with good intentions.
Technological advancements are not always beneficial. These
come with a price, as witnessed by the rising rate of obesity in
American children.
Whose view? Percy’s view or Zeus’s
view?The “it” is not clear. Try this instead:
“However, telling lies is not always
bad...”What the heck is “these?” Clarify –
“Technological progress comes with
a price...”