Montana 1948 by Larry Watson
Essay (Avery 2010)
Prompt: Identify one of Watson’s thematic statements. Which characters and/or
key scenes does Watson use to develop this thematic statement?

Paragraph 1: Introduction (6 sentences)
o Sentence 1 – identify the title, author, and one main theme
o Sentences 2-3 – give a brief summary of the plot
o Sentences 4-5 – identify the main characters and/or key
scenes
o Sentence 6 – thesis statement
 Thesis Statement (3-prong)– identify 3 characters
and/or key scenes that Watson uses to develop his
thematic statement
 Example: In his novel, Watson uses Wes Hayden,
Deputy Len, and Gail Hayden to develop the idea that
personal integrity often requires great sacrifice.
 Example: Larry Watson, author of Montana 1948
develops the theme of the destructiveness of isolation
through three key scenes: Marie Little Soldier’s death,
Gail shooting at Grandpa Hayden’s men, and David
leaving Montana.

Paragraphs 2, 3, & 4: Body Paragraphs ( 2 chunks / 8 sentences
each)
o Sentence 1 – Argument (one “prong” of thesis)
 Example: One character Watson uses to develop the
idea of sacrificing for personal integrity is Wes Hayden.
o Sentence 2 – Evidence
 Integrate a quote from the novel that supports your
argument
 End with a citation that includes the author’s last name
and the page number in parenthesis (Watson 55)
o Sentences 3 & 4 – Commentary
 Explain how your evidence proves your argument
o Sentence 5 – Argument
o Sentence 6 – Evidence
o Sentences 7 & 8 – Commentary

Paragraph 5: Conclusion (5 sentences)
o Sentence 1 – Restate your thesis statement
o Sentences 2-3 – Does the adult David make any conclusions
concerning your thematic statement?
o Sentences 4-5 – How does this thematic statement apply to
the world outside the novel? Is it still relevant today? Have
you seen this thematic statement in your personal
experiences? (Reader-Response)
CHUNK
Essay Structure: 5-paragraphs