Chapter 15 - Definition Essays
From dictionary copying to genuine layered definitions
The gap this chapter addresses
These students already know what most things mean from a lifetime of online content. The trap is mistaking the dictionary definition for the whole essay rather than its opening move.
If a student cannot paraphrase a definition, they do not yet understand the concept well enough to write a definition essay about it.
Additional activities for Chapter 15
Activity A15-20 min
Paraphrase Check. Students paraphrase a dictionary definition in their own words; if they cannot, they research the concept further before writing, since this signals incomplete understanding.
Activity B15-20 min
Three-Layer Build. Using a single concept, students write one sentence for each of the three layers (dictionary base, extended explanation, illustration) before combining them into a paragraph.
Further resources
GenAlphaWrite Companion Website
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writealpha.com
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© Dr. Saad Torki
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Last update: 10 July 2026