Assingments % - This I Believe

Following the guidelines provided in the Appendix of This I Believe, write your own This I Believe statement.

Please note: You are not required to submit your paper to the This I Believe website. You should only submit your paper to the Dropbox.

The This I Believe Paper should be 350-500 words in length, and must be double-spaced and have 1-inch margins, and should be written in Informal Style. You should use Times New Roman, 12-point font.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your “This I Believe” Paper

1. Understanding the Assignment

Objective: Your task is to write a “This I Believe” statement—a personal essay that expresses a deeply-held belief or value. This is an opportunity to reflect on your core principles, passions, or lessons learned from life experiences.
Length: 350-500 words.
Style: Write in an informal, personal tone. The essay should feel conversational but still adhere to the basic principles of clear and structured writing.
Format: Use Times New Roman, 12-point font, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins.

2. Choosing a Belief or Value

Think about what you truly believe in. What core value or principle has shaped your life and guided your decisions?
Consider these questions:
- What belief defines your actions or decisions?
- How did this belief develop in you (a personal experience or story)?
- Why is this belief important to you, and how does it influence your life?

3. Introduction Paragraph

Purpose: Introduce your belief. Start with a compelling statement or a personal anecdote that grabs the reader’s attention.
Example: If your belief is about the power of resilience, you could start with a story of overcoming a challenge, like, “I believe resilience is the key to overcoming life’s toughest obstacles. A few years ago, I faced a significant setback, but it was that very experience that showed me the importance of bouncing back stronger.”

4. Body Paragraphs

Purpose: In these paragraphs, explain why this belief is meaningful to you, how it impacts your life, and any experiences or lessons that reinforce it.
Structure:
- State the Belief: Begin each body paragraph by stating a specific aspect of your belief.
- Personal Story: Share an experience that illustrates why you believe in this value. Use examples that help the reader connect with your belief.
- Reflection: Explain how this belief has shaped your actions or decisions. What have you learned from it, and how has it impacted your outlook on life?
- Example: “I believe in the power of kindness. Over the years, I’ve seen how small acts of kindness can transform a person’s day. I learned this when a stranger helped me during a difficult time, reminding me that sometimes, a kind word or gesture is all we need to feel supported.”

5. Conclusion Paragraph

Purpose: Reaffirm your belief and wrap up your statement. Reflect on the future implications of this belief.
Example: “In a world that often focuses on what divides us, I firmly believe that kindness is the glue that can bring us together. I will continue to live by this belief, knowing that even the smallest act of kindness can create a ripple effect, spreading positivity wherever it goes.”

6. Proofreading

Grammar & Structure: After writing your paper, be sure to proofread for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Ensure the essay is within the word count range and has a natural flow.
Personal Reflection: This is a deeply personal piece, so make sure your genuine voice comes through. Be authentic.