4/21: Getting Started & Unstuck Rules of the Road: ● Resist rewording the prompt, ensure to create argument ● Annotate the prompt for key words to ensure that you know exactly what to address. This will create momentum for gathering writing ideas ● Focus deep on the reading for poetry and prose prompts ● Always address complexity: shifts, contrasts, or contradictory elements Prompts are Stable - Prompts all follow the same formula; no surprises - Poetry & Prose: - Prompt will give tag and a KEY VERB - Q3 Literary Argument: - Provide a concept or idea - Will always ask to find how that abstract idea contributes to the interpretation of the work as a whole (THEME!) Topic Sentences on Topic - Consider: does a topic sentence present one aspect or argument that must be proven in this body? - It must be able to support with evidence and ultimately support the thesis Relationships Before Devices - Avoid the trap of focusing on literary elements instead of the relationships or aspects of the prompt and how they evolve through the text - Find POV - Look for any shifts in tone, mood, symbols and ask why - Pay attention to structure (flashbacks, dialogue, etc) - Find theme Don’t Dump Evidence - Ensure you connect evidence to thesis or line of reasoning - Evidence should briefly explain where in the passage this example occurs (contextualize) - Partial direct quotation Use Commentary, Not Summary - Interpret the quotation - Explain why evidence is important to the argument - Use keywords from main argument/topic sentences - Use transitional phrases to signal explanation: “This ____ shows” Conclude if you can - Write a brief, non-summary conclusion - Should NOT summarize essay - Should connect thesis to larger issue and theme - Could “bookend” attention grabber from intro 4/22: Function of Structure and Symbolism Examining Plays 1. What symbols are present? 2. Which are the most significant? 3. How do symbols convey ideas about characters? 4. How do symbols convey ideas about the work as a whole? Identifying and Analyzing Structure 1. What are the natural divisions in the text? 2. What occurs during each section? 3. How do characters change across the arc of the piece? 4. What is the function of each section of the arc? 5. What objects in the story represent an idea beyond themselves? 6. What do the symbols reveal about characters, plot, and/or theme? 7. How do the symbols change as the text progresses?
