The Literary Analysis: John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men

STEP 1 (Topic selection): Choose your topic from the list of 25 If you know of a different topic you wish to use, please let me know!

STEP 2 (KWHL): Complete the KWHL chart while reading the novel. Begin brainstorming ideas for your paper as you are reading the novel.

STEP 3 (Thesis Statement): Write your thesis statement: ONE sentence Encompasses everything you will discuss in your paper Similar to a hypothesis in science, this is what you are trying to PROVE in your paper Sometimes you can actually restructure your topic to form your thesis statement

STEP 3 (Thesis Statement): Example: Let’s say you chose Topic 1: How does Steinbeck create a sense of insecurity in the novel? Your thesis statement can be written as follows: In Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck creates a sense of insecurity in the novel by his use of language, through the contribution of setting, and through his use of characters.

STEP 4 (3 Main Points): Choose three points that support and help you prove your thesis Consider choosing: 3 characters 3 events NOTE: Many students like to select their 3 main points before writing their thesis so they can use these points while writing the thesis (see my example!)

STEP 5 (Ideas for each main point ): You will notice that each main point contains a section A and B, each subtitled IDEA. This is where you will be more specific regarding the book. This is support for each of your MAIN POINTS.

STEP 6 (Support from book ): After coming up with your Idea for each Main Point, you then need to find that information in the book Pull an excerpt or quote from the book for each IDEA Write down this quote verbatim (word for word). Use elipsis is you are leaving anything out! Don’t forget to add the author’s last name (Steinbeck) and page number for each!

STEP 7 (Support from outside sources): The next step, after finding support from the book, is to find support from outside sources. You will need to find TWO reputable sources. Again, write down information VERBATIM (word-for-word). Complete an MLA citation sheet for each of your two sources. Add last name and page number (if applicable).

STEP 7 (Support from outside sources): NOTE: You need to provide outside information for at least ONE IDEA in EACH main point (total of three quotes from outside source).