“Araby” by James Joyce, John Updike’s “A&P” and “How To Date a Browngirl, Whitegirl…” by Junot Díaz discuss a
variety of issues when it comes to teenagers and the fear of dating or being in a relationship. Characters confront those
fears and the consequences that come from being in a relationship. Each story, one way or another, is about trying to
impress someone.
Write a 6-paragraph essay by answering the following questions.
– To what extent have you tried to impress someone who you are dating, or interested in dating, OR has someone
tried to impress you? Explain why, for who?
– Do you recognize any part of yourself in any character from one of these stories? Explain.
– Define what dating means to you. What are the rules? Expectations?
– Does what you see and read online influence your relationships and dating?
Rough Drafts due – February 8th
Final Copy due by or before Friday, February 17th
• The body paragraphs should actually tell a story, and the conclusion should express the significance of the
incident or experience. Your paper should focus on that experience or incident about which there is a clear
beginning, middle, and end. Because this essay will be a personal narrative, please use first person.
· DO NOT cut and paste from the web,
· DO NOT use the words of others as your own.
· Avoid plagiarism. If you have questions about how to quote, contact me.
· Paragraphs are identified by an indentation of five spaces (a tab), do not make extra spaces between paragraphs.
· Use the standard margins of 1″ on the top and bottom margins and 1.25″ on the left and right margins.
· Double spaced text is standard in essay writing and provides room for your editor to circle or underline any errors.
· Use the standard font “Times New Roman” size 12., spacing 2”.
