Challenge Essay

Introduction - Funnel Method - Start by defining the topic and finish with your specific idea

1. First sentence should define the topic and allow the readers to understand your topic of discussion. For example, you could define what is to be dynamic, or you could define what a challenge is to you.
2. Sentence two should relate that topic to all people. For example, state types of challenges that we all face in life; learning to ride a bike, or compete at a sport, or dealing with a new reality.
3. Sentence three should specifically state the challenge, or the experience, that you had in life.
4. Sentence four should clearly state or hint at what was learned from your life experience.  This is an important sentence and sets the tone for the rest of the essay.  It is the point of focus because it is what you gained as a result of experience.  It is the thesis, which means, the point you are proving using facts.

First Body Paragraph- "The Beginning"

1. The beginning of the challenge. How did it begin? What was it like? How old were you?
2. Describe doubts, worries, feelings you had about your challenge, yourself.
3. What people were involved? What do you remember? Be descriptive.
4. Establish a tone in your writing.  Is it funny? Can you laugh at yourself?  What is your attitude about the challenge or experience?
5. Detail Details Details. Take your time in describing.
6. Summarize your ideas. 
7. State when the challenge seemed the worst. When you thought it would never, ever end? Hint at the next phase in your challenge

Second Body Paragraph-  "The middle of the experience"

1. State the most difficult part of the experience or challenge.
2. What were the things that made this experience so difficult?
3. Why was it so challenging?
4. Did you think you would give up? Why? Explain
5. Detail Details Details. Take your time in describing. Feeling, thoughts...
6. Try to relate your experience to others.  How can everyone understand?

Third Body Paragraph- "The Turning Point"

1. When did things begin to change? What happened?
2. Why? How? Please explain.
3. What inspired you to overcome the challenge or difficult time?
4. Details Details Details ....Thoughts, ideas, feeling, reflections....
5. Summarize your new insight.
6. What is new about you after you learned something new?

Conclusion- "Summarizing your Journey"

1. Re-write the last sentence of your introductory paragraph in a new way.  Bring your journey full circle to show what you have learned about life. Yourself? Challenges?
2. How are you different today?
3. How will this help you moving forward on your journey?
4. What could you teach others as a result of your experience?
5. A sentence that shows an end to your reflection.