General Essay Structure:
Introduction
A. Capture reader’s interest
B. Build case through logic
C. Thesis Statement
First main point (strongest)
A. Support
1. Example
2. Example
B. Support
1. Example
2. Example
C. Support
1. Example
2. Example
Second Main Point
A. Support
1. Example
2. Example
B. Support
1. Example
2. Example
C. Support
1. Example
2. Example
Third Main Point
A. Support
1. Example
2. Example
B. Support
1. Example
2. Example
C. Support
1. Example
2. Example
Conclusion
A. Restate topic
B. Summarize three main points
C. Revisit introduction or tie all ideas together
When Considering What to Write About:
1. Brainstorm on scrap paper to come up with your own original idea with the given prompt
(character development of Ian in Gather).
o Then write it in one sentence in the middle of the paper.
2. Next, be sure you have at least 2-3 examples from the text you can use to back up your statement,
write those down around the statement you wrote in the middle of the paper.
▪
Do they all connect? Do they back up your thesis statement?
▪ If yes⇒ You are ready to make an outline.
▪ If not⇒ That’s okay! You may need to adjust your statement or think of a new one.
This is all part of the process.
Tips for Thesis Statement:
Consider what point/claim/argument you are trying to get across.
Why does it matter/why is it important?
What makes your point worth considering/reading?
How does it show your own original thinking? (Not regurgitating or stating the obvious).
What is a Thesis statement?
o
It belongs the end of your introduction (very first paragraph). It is YOUR main
argument/claim/point that you are making to the reader, it is the stance you are taking.
o Each paragraph serves as evidence for this stance. We don’t want any “floating
paragraphs” with “flowery language” (pointless and wordy).
o
A concise sentence that summarizes your main argument or central idea. It is where you clearly
state your position on a topic.
o
o
o
o
I should be able to highlight your thesis from your first paragraph, as it should be very clear.
While the introduction paragraph gives background context and highlights the key points that
will be discussed throughout the essay, the thesis statement is within the introduction. It is your
foundation for the entire essay, and what you should always circle back to.
*Each body paragraph’s purpose is to back up your thesis statement*: when in doubt, always
come back to thesis because that is what your essay is about!
The purpose is to serve as a roadmap for the reader to guide them along with your thinking.
GENERAL OUTLINE:
Introduction
I.
o
⇨
B.P. 3
⇨
Conclusion
Introduce book title, author, and any necessary background context
Hook (encouraged but not always required)
Thesis statement (described above)
Topic Sentence: states main ideas of what you will be discussing in this paragraph
Supporting Details/evidence: examples, facts, quotes that prove your T.S.
Analysis: explains how the evidence supports T.S. AND how it connects to your
argument (thesis)
Concluding/Transitional Sentence: wrap up what you are saying and smoothly
transition to next paragraph
Topic Sentence
Supporting Details
Analysis
Concluding Sentence / Transition
Body paragraph 3:
o
o
o
o
IV.
B.P. 2
Body paragraph 2:
o
o
o
o
III.
⇨
Body paragraph 1:
o
o
o
II.
B.P. 1
Intro:
o
o
o
II.
⇨
T.S.
S.D.
Ana.
C.S. /Transition
Conclusion:
o
Restate your thesis (in a stronger way, now that we have read your essay and
should be convinced)
o
Briefly reiterate the gist of your supporting details that you provided: remind the reader
of your evidence/arguments, and how you have provided sufficient commentary
o
o
Wrap it up/tie it together, restate the importance of what you have just written
It is recommended that your last sentence should either be a “clincher” (a
definitive statement that reinforces the message you are trying to get across), or a
“cliffhanger” (something to leave the reader pondering about)
General Outline for Character Development:
Introduction
1. Hook:
Start your essay with an engaging statement about character evolution.
Example: "Every great story shows us that people can change, often in unexpected ways."
2. Background Information:
Briefly introduce the character you will be discussing and mention the source (book, etc.)
Who is the character, and what basic information does the reader need to understand his
situation?
3. Thesis Statement:
Clearly state that the essay will analyze how the character develops over the course of the story
and what influences drive that change.
Example: "In Gather, we see Ian’s character develop from a burdened and worried boy, to a boy
who is grateful for the people who gather around him.”
Body Paragraph 1: Ian at the Beginning
1.
2.
3.
Introduction of Ian’s Initial State: Describe Ian’s personality, behavior, circumstances, and outlook
on life early in the story. What traits or habits does Ian show at the start? What are his challenges or
conflicts?
Evidence from the Story: Provide specific examples or quotes from the text that illustrate Ian’s
initial state.
Analysis: Elude to the fact that these traits will shift throughout the novel.
Body Paragraph 2: Further Evidence
1.
2.
3.
Identification of a Key Event or Conflict:
Describe moment or event that continues to challenge the Ian’s established way of thinking or
behaving.
Impact on Ian:
Show how this event forces the character to confront their weaknesses or reconsider their
beliefs.
How does the character react to this challenge? What internal or external conflicts arise from it?
Evidence and Analysis:
Use details from the text to support your description of the turning point, and explain its impact
on the Ian’s development.
Which specific parts of the text provide clear evidence of this shift? How do these
examples help the reader understand the importance of the event?
Body Paragraph 3: Depict Ian’s Shift
1. Description of Ian’s Growth:
Discuss how Ian has evolved by the end of the story, circling back to your main point.
New thoughts Ian displays? How do they differ from what was shown in the beginning?
2. Demonstration of Change through Actions and Relationships:
Explain how Ian’s interactions with others serve as proof of his growth.
Provide examples of minor interactions where Ian’s gratitude is evident, even if subconsciously.
3. Reflection on the Significance of the Change:
Analyze why the character’s development matters for the overall narrative or theme of the story.
What does their transformation tell the reader about the power of personal growth? What
broader lesson can be drawn from their journey?
Conclusion
1. Restate Your Thesis in a New Way:
Summarize the key points about the character’s development from beginning to end.
How can you restate Ian’s journey in a way that reinforces your thesis?
2. Summarize Key Evidence:
Briefly remind the reader of the significant events and turning points that led to the
character’s growth.
Which events or pieces of evidence were most crucial in the character’s transformation?
3. Closing Thought:
End with a reflective or thought-provoking sentence that connects the character’s journey
to a universal truth about change.
Example: “Ultimately, [Character Name]'s transformation reminds us that embracing
change is not a sign of weakness, but a step toward becoming our truest selves.”
What personal or universal insight can you share that reinforces the importance of
growing and changing.
Additional Tips
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Transitions: Use transitional words or phrases (e.g., “initially,” “however,” “as a result”)
to connect your ideas smoothly.
Evidence Integration: Always introduce your quotes or examples and explain how they
support your analysis.
Personal Reflection: Don’t be afraid to include a personal connection or reflection on
why character development matters. This not only adds depth to your essay but also
makes your analysis more engaging.
Character Development: Gather
This is a scaffolded essay from my notes with you to help you draft an essay. Feel free to use any
of it in your own words, and absolutely zero pressure to use any of it at all. My intention is to
simply demonstrate/give you an idea of how to get started.
o
Writing is a mind-bending experience, and much harder than it seems!
Don’t read too much into it (no pun intended ).
o
Think of your first draft as a very imperfect purge:
just let whatever is at your fingertips flow out of you without any judgment or hesitation.
o
Once you start writing, you will find what point you are trying to get across that is in
your mind, and with that, the words you have been looking for will come to you.
• Sometimes it comes quickly, and other times it's frustratingly slow, but you
can only get clarity once you start.
▪ And then, we get to edit… many, many times!
So, based off of our discussion, we're talking about Ian’s journey from being:
burdened, worried, ashamed, etc. (all of
which have contributed to his isolation)
ultimately embracing and appreciating the
people around him, as well as harnessing an
awareness of his part in society and all that he
has to offer to the world.
I believe we’re also proving the point that the author attributes his character development/personal
growth to little interactions he has with other people, often unexpectedly.
Some notes:
Ian starts off:
-narrow world view (largely due to his world being closed in on his mother who is
addicted to opioids, and his father is absent).
-stressed/worried, far too much on the shoulders of a kid who doesn’t know how to
handle addiction let alone running a household.
-pessimistic/transactional, he sees other humans as elements that he has to give
something to or as elements that owe him something. 
A few interactions that shift his perspective regarding connections with others:
-Mr. Hennessy
-Mrs. Sharpe
-Gather
-Ian ends up:
-aware of the people around him and all they have done for him
-aware of all that he can provide/give back to the world
-aware that everyone else struggles just like him, just in different ways, at different times
-grateful for and touched by everyone who has gathered around him.
*Take into consideration the significant amount of inner dialogue in this book- I think it further
shows just how isolated Ian is (he is very much in his head), and beyond that, it shows the deep
level of intellectual thinking that Ian is introduced to. Furthermore, I think it also shows the
author’s appreciation for our ability as humans to be able to think on a deeper level, one that
enables us to challenge our own opinions and thoughts, which opens our minds to the rest of the
world. ~as humans we are constantly gathering knowledge, gathering information, gathering connections,
gathering wisdom, gathering friends, gathering losses, gathering gains etc.~
I. Introduction
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Hook:
Open with an engaging sentence that underscores the universal struggle of feeling
isolated in a bustling world- some ideas:
o “Sometimes, it simply takes opening our eyes, ears, and hearts to what is right in
front of us, to see that everyone who surrounds us is just as human as we are.”
o “In every quiet heart, there lies a yearning for connection and relief from the
heavy burdens of solitude.”
o “The support of others can often serve as a mirror for us, and from there we can
truly see ourselves.”
Context/Background:
Briefly introduce the protagonist, Ian. Explain that the book offers a deep exploration into
the inner life of a boy mired in worry and a burdened isolation, elude to fact that there is
character growth and that you are about to explain what that is.
*Thesis Statement* (1-2 sentences): The main point you are trying to get across. Each
paragraph should circle back to this idea/statement. You don’t want any floating
sentences or paragraphs (when they do not connect back to the thesis and leave the
reader confused and wondering why you included that part).
o State the essay's main idea:
~Ian's character evolves to become more grateful for the people who support him~.
Show with text evidence how Ian’s character arc goes from isolation and emotional burden
(worry, shame, loss, etc.), to finding gratitude and appreciation (and love), in human connection.
Example Thesis Statements:
"In Gather, Ian’s transformation from a solitary, burdened soul to a man profoundly grateful for
the support of those around him exemplifies how personal connections can mend even the most
fragile spirit."
"Ian’s experiences and interactions, both subtle and significant, contribute to his character
evolution in Gather, marked by a shift from inner isolation caused by overwhelming burdens, to
a newfound appreciation of human warmth. These little and large experiences reveal to him that
authentic community life is essential to overcoming internal struggles."
II. Body Paragraph 1: Ian’s Initial Isolation and Burden
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Topic Sentence:
Begin with a statement that captures Ian’s starting point—his isolation, inner burdens,
and pervasive worry.
Textual Evidence and Examples:
o Describe scenes or descriptions in the text where Ian’s isolation is palpable.
o Discuss how his internal dialogue or behavior signals a deep-seated loneliness and
burden.
Analysis:
o Explain how these early traits set up the conflict within Ian/how it affects how he
interacts with the world.
o Reflect on the emotional as well as symbolic significance.
Transition:
Conclude the paragraph with a sentence that hints at the impending shift in his life,
slowly preparing the reader for some kind of turning point/sign of growth.
•
III. Body Paragraph 2: The Turning Point and Emergence of Connection
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Topic Sentence:
Introduce (another) moment or a relationship that begins to challenge/shift his perception
of life/others.
Key Moments/Inciting Incidents:
o Identify a pivotal scene where Ian encounters kindness or an unexpected
invitation to connect.
o Mention interactions with a significant character or group that begin to challenge
his habitual isolation.
Textual Evidence:
o Include a placeholder for a quote or two that exemplify this moment of change
(e.g., “Quote from Gather describing the moment of connection”).
Analysis:
o Delve into how this turning point destabilizes Ian’s internal narrative.
o Illustrate the symbolism of “gathering” in the text, noting how it represents not
just physical proximity but emotional healing and mutual support.
Transition:
Prepare the way for the next paragraph by indicating that these events lay the groundwork
for a deeper, lasting transformation in Ian’s character.
IV. Body Paragraph 3: Transformation into Gratitude
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Topic Sentence:
State that as the narrative progresses, Ian begins to evolve into a character who deeply
appreciates the people who support him.
Evidence of Change:
o Highlight moments where Ian explicitly expresses gratitude or shows behavioral
shifts toward openness and connection.
o Use a quote placeholder to show his internal reflections on the value of human
connection.
Analysis:
o Discuss the gradual dismantling of his previous isolation.
o Relate his newfound gratitude to broader themes in the novel—how accepting
help and acknowledging support leads to inner peace and growth.
o Consider discussing literary techniques (such as symbolism or recurring motifs)
that reinforce his developmental arc.
Synthesis:
Provide commentary on how this transformation is not just personal but also reflective of
the novel’s larger commentary on vulnerability and the importance of community in
overcoming life’s burdens.
V. Conclusion
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Restate Thesis:
Summarize Ian’s journey—emphasizing his transformation from isolation and burden to
gratitude and connection.
Summarize Key Points:
Briefly recapitulate the three phases you have discussed:
1. Initial Isolation and Worry: His detached and burdened state.
2. The Turning Point: The spark of change brought on by small interactions.
3. Emergence of Gratitude: His growth into a connected, appreciative individual.
Final Reflections:
o Reflect on how Ian’s change resonates with readers and offers insights into the
human need for support and community.
o Suggest any broader implications of his journey—perhaps noting that his
evolution mirrors the positive impact that gathering and connection can have on
anyone’s life.
Closing Sentence:
End with a powerful statement that encapsulates the transformative power of open human
connection, inviting the reader to see themselves in Ian’s story.
Additional Tips
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Use of Quotes:
Integrate direct quotes from Gather at strategic points throughout the essay to support
your analysis. If the text includes vivid descriptions or internal monologues, let these
•
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serve as evidence for each stage of Ian’s transformation✓.
Smooth Transitions:
Ensure that each paragraph flows smoothly into the next, always connecting to your
“thesis”. Transitional sentences should naturally lead the reader through Ian’s journey.
Depth of Analysis:
Go beyond simply recounting events. Analyze Ian’s internal changes and connect them to
the broader themes of the novel. Reflect on why these changes are significant both for
him and for the message Gather conveys about community and vulnerability.
•
Personal Reflection
Include a brief reflection on how this theme of transformation could relate to your own
experiences or contemporary life—drawing parallels between literature and lived
experience.