Page 1178 - Wordsmith A Guide to College Writing

Journal Entry: Greatest Generation?
The term “the Greatest Generation” is often used to describe the

generation that came of age during World War II. This generation,

which supported World War II and generally “played by the rules,” is

considered patriotic and hardworking. What term would you give your

own generation? Why?

Essay 1: Benefits of National Service

Discuss the possible benefits of a national service project that

required young people to spend the first year out of high school in the

service of their country if they did not choose to join the military. The

service could be at home or abroad and would require serving an

organization such as the Peace Corps or Americorps, as mentioned in
the essay, or perhaps organizations such as Habitat for Humanity or

the Red Cross. Consider the benefits to the country and to the

individuals who serve.

Essay 2: Strength from Adversity
The essay suggests that facing difficulties and working in the service

of others builds character and changes lives. Describe a period in your

life that may have been difficult but that made you a stronger person.

Alternatively, interview an older person such as a parent or
grandparent and ask about the experiences that changed their lives.

Write about those experiences in an essay.

Essay 3: Challenges to a New Generation