The Possibility of Evil
You will be writing a Persuasive Essay due on __________________.
Your essay needs to be no less then 5 paragraphs including an introduction
(which MUST close with a thesis statement). Your paper must include at least 3
main body paragraphs, as well as a conclusion. Please remember all of the rules
for writing essays properly (NO: is/when, there is/there are, like, or you).
The introductory paragraph should include a HOOK (this is an attention grabber
that secures the interest of your reader. This could include a question, a surprise,
or maybe even a quotation that creates a desire to see what happens next), a
DEVELOPER (the process of adding informative and illustrative details to
support the main idea), SUPPORTING EVIDENCE, and a THESIS
STATEMENT.
The main body paragraphs must have a minimum of 5 – 7 complete sentences
(noun, verb, and a complete thought) each and use at least 2 TRANSISTIONAL
WORDS or phrases between sentences. These paragraphs must use DIRECT
QUOTES and PARAPHRASING to support your claims.
PROMPT:
Your Essay can focus on the following theme and use examples (with proper
citations) from both Arthur Miller’s The Crucible and Shirley Jackson’s short
stories The Lottery and The Possibility of Evil.
How do the authors’ stories reveal the message regarding the evil side of human
nature?
You must also include each of the following literary elements in your paper:
IRONY, FORESHADOWING, & SYMBOLISM as supporting evidence.
One of the most difficult items to work on during a Persuasive Essay is the thesis
statement. By turning the topic into an opinion you a creating an opportunity to
explain that opinion and produce a real purpose to your writing. An added bonus
is the fact that it creates real interest.
Finally, you may find your essay easier to write and control if you limit your focus
to only two or three objects, ideas, or people. If you use any more then two or
three you will find it harder to write and more difficult for audience to read.
Your paper must come in neatly handwritten. Each day you will be working on a
specific section of your essay, and at the end of the week, turn in a final draft
which will include all work done in class.