Introduction: write 4 sentences about ethics and morals. Tell the differences and similarities IN YOUR OWN WORDS.
Thesis Statement: Use the sample thesis statements for guidance. The thesis should be the last sentence of the Introduction.
1, In (titles of works), (authors’ full names) use (one aspect) to (define, strengthen, illustrate) the theme of ethics vs morals.
2. In (titles of works), (authors’ full names) use (literary device) to (accomplish, develop, illustrate, strengthen) the ethics vs morals theme.
Use one of the above if you know you want to focus only on one aspect or literary device (symbolism, setting, historical setting, or dynamic character).
3. (Authors’ full names) (show, develop, illustrate) the theme of ethics vs morals in their works.
Use this thesis if you want to include more than one of the aspects or literary devices within the body paragraphs to discuss the theme.
Two Body Paragraphs
A. Body Paragraph 1
1. Topic Sentence (must refer back to thesis by identifying the work and having a transition, the literary device, the dilemma, and language that indicates approval or not): This sentence will give the reader the focus of the paragraph. Are you discussing how the symbolism of the bird affects the reader’s perception of the ethics and morals presented in the play? Are you discussing the dynamic character of Delia and how this demonstrates the reader’s attitude toward her allowing Sykes to die? The topic sentence will give your reader the focus and the topic of the entire paragraph. Sample Topic Sentence: First, in Trifles, the symbolism used in the play helps to justify the death of John Wright.
2. Lead in sentence that gives an example of why the topic sentence is true: This is when you will tell what is going on the play or story that is the focus of the ethical and moral dilemma. This isn’t a summary of the whole play or story. For example, how or why is Mrs. Peters the dynamic character? What does the bird represent in the play; how is it symbolic?
3. Direct Quote that gives evidence of the example: Choose a direct quote from the play or short story that supports what you are discussing. It needs to make sense within the sentence and the paragraph. SEE THE SAMPLE DIRECT QUOTES IN THE MODULE.
4. Comment: make a comment about the direct quote or about the example: Explain how the direct quote relates to the moral and ethical dilemma within the short story or play. How is it supporting your opinion?
5. Direct Quote from the Secondary Source that supports why the topic sentence is true: You found an article that is about the short story or play. Read it. Find a direct quote from the article that connects to the focus of your paragraph. Sometimes the direct quote will support what you are saying, and sometimes it is in opposition, which is ok if you can refute it. Make sure you are using a direct quote that is critical analysis of the literary work.
6. Comment: make a comment about the secondary source direct quote; explain its importance
7. Concluding sentence closes the paragraph: This sentence will end the paragraph. It should come to a point by reiterating the focus of the paragraph, or you may to lead into the next paragraph by making a connection.
B. Body Paragraph 2
USE THE SAME GUIDELINES AS IN THE FIRST BODY PARAGRAPH
1. Topic Sentence
2. Lead in sentence that gives an example of why the topic sentence is true:
3. Direct Quote that gives evidence of the example:
4. Comment: make a comment about the direct quote or about the example:
5. Direct Quote from Secondary Source that supports why the topic sentence is true:
6. Comment: make a comment about the secondary source direct quote; explain its importance
7. Concluding sentence closes the paragraph:
Conclusion Paragraph
Conclusion topic sentence: Give your opinion about the literature; for example, do you agree with the authors’ implications? The author has led the reader to believe the actions of the main characters are moral and ethical. However, you may not agree. This is when you will state how you feel. In this paragraph, you may use first person, such as, I believe or I think. Remember to keep using present tense verbs when discussing the literature. Many of you forget to do that in this paragraph.
