English I Elaboration

Prompt: Write an essay explaining the

necessary characteristics a person must possess in order to survive a challenge.

Thesis: Persistence and courage are necessary characteristics a person must possess in order to survive a challenge.

Prompt and Thesis

During the Revolutionary War, George

Washington’s persistence was one of the main reasons the Continental Army overcame the greater forces of the British Empire. In the infamous night crossing of the Delaware River, the bedraggled colonists led by Washington endured sleet, snow, and bitterly cold temperatures before attacking and ultimately winning the battle against more experienced Hessian mercenaries hired by the British.

Historical Examples

Abraham Lincoln is an exceptional

example of a persistent politician. Despite losing a bid for Illinois state representative, one for the U.S. Congress, two campaigns for the Illinois U.S. Senate, a vice presidential bid, and a job for Illinois state land officer, he didn’t give up and was eventually elected as the 16th President of the U.S.

Historical Examples

Ethan Hunt in the Mission

Impossible movies never gives up despite the obstacles he must overcome. His persistence is what allows him to defeat the “bad guys,” steal intelligence secrets, and escape serious injury and death.

Movies and Books Examples

In the Harry Potter books, Harry,

Hermione, and Ron never give up despite adversity. Voldermort is a more powerful wizard, but through persistence Harry ultimately overcomes his adversary. He continues to learn and use the information garnered from his friends, family, and teachers to become a powerful wizard in his own right.

Movies and Books Examples

Kerri Strug courageously overcame extreme

physical pain and injury in order to secure the gold medal for the U.S. team at the 1996 Olympics. Despite having seriously injured her ankle in her first vault attempt, Strug completed her second vault for a higher score and secured the gold medal for her team. Although she further injured herself and was unable to compete for the rest of the Olympic Games, Strug’s performance is still remembered as courageous.

Sports and Pop Culture Examples

Despite directing memorable and

groundbreaking movies such as Jaws, Raiders of the Lost Ark, ET, and The Color Purple in the 1970s-1980s, Stephen Spielberg did not win an Academy Award for directing until the 1990s with Schindler’s List and in the 2000s for Saving Private Ryan. Spielberg, however, was persistent and continued to create great movies.

Sports and Pop Culture Examples

I was enthralled by a reality television show on

the National Geographic channel entitled Ultimate Survival Alaska. Eight men trekked thousands of miles through the rough terrain of Alaska. On several episodes, the adventurers experienced adversity. Broken boats, lack of food, and hostile weather, countryside, and wildlife couldn’t stop these courageous men from completing their trek across Alaska.

Current Events Examples

Firefighters courageously entered the

110 floor World Trade Center Towers in New York City on September 11, 2001 despite the insurmountable odds they faced in fighting a fire. Their goal was to save as many people as possible.

Current Events Examples

Hiking the seven mile Devils Garden

primitive trail at Arches National Park in Utah takes courage. Only the brave attempt this strenuous trek with an ominous name. I hiked down narrow ledges high above the Colorado River and climbed slick rock with small hand holds to avoid flooded riverbeds.

Someone You Know—Personal Examples

I was not only a state ranked middle distance

runner in high school, but I was at the top of my class academically until I took high school math as a junior. Although I had the same math teacher the year before, I just didn’t understand the new math concepts. Instead of giving up, however, I decided to persevere. I did my homework every night, went to tutorials every chance I could get, and studied religiously. I squeaked by with a “C,” but I retained my eligibility in track.

Someone You Know—Personal Examples

Materials provided by Lisa

Rowlette, Carolyn Wright, and Cathy Kahlig

Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD