Assignment
Choose one of the questions below and, after pre-writing and completing a reasons and evidence worksheet and thesis statement at home, come to class prepared to write a full essay -- title, intro, body paragraphs, conclusion: min. 5 paragraphs) which answers it. Remember, your purpose is to argue that your view is correct.
Requirements
No word count here: focus on developing paragraphs. You must include at least one secondary source.
Unlike essays one and two, this essay will be drafted in class. You'll plan the essay at home, and then we'll use class time to work on the essay. Your actual draft cannot be revised or worked on outside of class.
Remember that general encyclopedias, dictionaries, and the primary source itself do not count as secondary sources – though if used, they have to be cited).
Sources
The first place to check for sources is the textbook. The next place would be the library's databases (accessed via the Library Link). History, psychology, anthropology, or sociology textbooks are also very good sources.
NOTE: No open internet sources will be used in this essay. Failure to do so will mean an automatic D
And last time I checked, Sparknotes, Cliffnotes, encyclopedias or dictionaries were not academic sources.
Naturally, you must correctly document your sources using MLA parenthetical documentation style.
Directions
The best advice I can offer is to REREAD PLAY. This will provide you with the understanding and quotes necessary to set up and write a strong essay.
Be sure you have read and understood the definitions of an essay, thesis and division statement, topic sentences, introduction, and conclusion included in "Dr. Bordelon's Glossary."
Follow the suggestions in "In-class Essay Suggestions" ("Course Documents") and "Planning and Drafting an Essay." Remember to check with me if you have any questions or concerns. Also check "Writing about Drama" in textbook.
What you may bring to class
1. Thesis statement and reasons and evidence worksheet
2. Your brain
3.
NOTE: Any other material, sections of essays, introductions, etc. will be removed by me.
BUDGET YOUR TIME
Do all of your thinking at home and come to class prepared to write. Even your titles and introductions and conclusions can be worked on at home, and jotted down quickly.
I cannot grade on what might have been: I have to base my grade on what is in front of me, so be sure to complete the essay. |
Questions
Questions to come
Glass Menagerie
- What does the play suggest about conformity v. individuality or instinct v. civilization? Is Williams saying individuality is best? Instinct? Conformity? Civilization? Neither? State clearly in a word or short phrase your answer to this question, and then explain yourself. How does the rest of the play support your point?
- Through Tom, what is Williams saying about the position/role/dilemma of an artist in society? State clearly in a word or short phrase your answer to this question, and then explain yourself, and focus on only one thing. How does the rest of the play support your point?
- How could the play be read as a critique of American society? First decide exactly what Williams is criticizing and state it (focus on only one thing Williams is criticizing), and then write an essay which shows this. Your body paragraphs should explain how your examples can be considered criticisms, and should be rooted in the time span of the play (1930-1945).
- Religious symbolism runs throughout the play: why? What role does religion play in this work? State this in a short phrase and then develop an essay which argues for the validity of your claim.
Grading Criteria
To receive a passing grade, you must successfully complete the following:
Organization: Have a clear thesis statement, which suggests how a particular question is valid. You must also include a clear division statement which is then developed in separate paragraphs with clear topic sentences.
Content: Paragraphs that use specific quotes and examples from the story to prove your point – AND a full and complete discussion on why and how that particular quote or word proves your point. REMEMBER: examples do not speak for themselves – the core of a good literary essay is in your commentary and explanations of the examples.
Proofreading: Sentences that are clear and no more than 5 major errors. Note on handwriting: if I can't read it, you will receive a failing grade: if in doubt, print.
Major errors: Sentence fragments, run-on sentences, verb-tense error, subject-verb agreement error, unclear phrasing/tangled wording, words that I cannot decipher, and spelling/wrong word error.
© David Bordelon
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