Directions: Write an essay of at least five paragraphs in which you respond to a text by analyzing it.
Word Count: at least 750 words
Percentage of Total Average: 20%
Thesis Statement
In this paper, you are arguing your analysis of a work is valid, so know that a mere summary is not arguable by nature. This means that you need a strong thesis in your paper. Remember, a thesis statement is one sentence that contains the restated topic, your opinion, and supporting reasons. It also should be placed at the end of the introduction. Your thesis should mirror the following:
Thesis Template: In “The Pedestrian,” Ray Bradbury is trying to show the reader that __________________, which is evident by _________, _________, and _________.
*The thesis should be the last sentence of your introduction.
*Each body paragraph should use the quotation sandwich method and cite an example from the text.
Format:
The paper must be, double-spaced, 12-pt Times New Roman font, standard 1’ margins around the entire page (which is MLA format). An MLA formatted template is available for you in Canvas. Always consult the Little Seagull Handbook (161) when you have formatting or style questions.
Audience:
The initial audience for this essay will be your instructor and classmates; keep this academic audience in mind as you write. This audience expects to read sophisticated, clear writing. Avoid using contractions in formal writing. Format: The paper should be typed, double-spaced, 12-pt Times New Roman font, standard one-inch margins. Use MLA format. Always consult the Norton Field Guide to Writing when you have formatting or style questions.
Remember, this paper is an analysis – not a summary! The writings in English 102 are largely focused on analyzing literary texts, which involves short fiction, poetry, and drama, so this paper helps prepare you for that course, too. Remember to analyze, not summarize.
In-Text Citations
MLA format requires you to reference the author’s name every time you quote the source. Since I gave you this story, which doesn’t have page numbers, you do not have to put a page number in parenthesis.
Here are some easy examples of how to cite a text:
Example of Direct Quotes:
In “Ballad of Birmingham,” Dudley Randall writes, “_________________” (99).
Randall also writes, “_______________________________________” (100).
Example of Paraphrases:
In “Ballad of Birmingham,” Dudley Randall writes that ______________ (99).
Randall also writes that ________________________________________ (100).
Important Note about Citations:
*The first time you reference the source, you must use the title of the work and the author’s name.
