Writing your thesis

Today: 1. Turn your homework into the box on my desk; you may not print it out in here. 2. Notes on thesis writing/essay writing 3.Distribution of essay prompt 4. Remainder of hour used to write outline for timed essay. This MUST be turned in at the end of the hour,

General requirements: The prompt:   Throughout the novel A Separate Peace, John Knowles explores the trials and tribulations that teenagers face as they become more aware of the larger world and issues around them. One subject he explores in depth is the issue of assumptions using his craft to make observations and offer lessons on this topic. In a well-developed, detailed essay, identify and explore one theme about this motif that is addressed in the book. Discuss the assertions Knowles makes about this issue as well as how he uses his writing style to further develop these ideas. General requirements: Introductory paragraph with an clear and effective thesis Two body (AEA) paragraphs that must contain: Two pieces of connected, supporting evidence Two developed segments of analysis that include at least two layered literary devices in each analysis and a discussion of author’s style (diction, syntax, something he does repeatedly for effect or development) in each analysis Concluding paragraph

Look at your prompt Each prompt asks you to write a thematic statement which show how a particular motif is seen in the novel.

Step 1 . . . THINK Reread the prompt and start to think about ways in which the motif is shown in the novel. What things showed this? What conclusions can you draw about the motif after thinking about it? How can you write a thesis which will state two ways in which this theme is seen? From those two large ways, can you find two pieces of evidence each?

Not really a theme of this novel! Step 2- write Write a theme for the novel which incorporates the assigned motif. Follow the six principles of discovering theme! Happiness can be found in unexpected places. Not really a theme of this novel!

Step 3- refine Refine your evidence Think about how you can explain your evidence. Does the evidence show what you want it to? Will you be able to layer at least two literary terms per piece of evidence in each AEA paragraph? Will you also be able to discuss diction and/or syntax about this analysis?

These things did not really happen in this novel.  Step 4 – Write more These things did not really happen in this novel.  Write your thesis: Because Gene has a positive relationship with Finny and he has a great trip to Florida, John Knowles explains/shows/illustrates _that__happiness can be found in unexpected places Second thing you will write about. You will need two pieces of evidence to show this. First thing you will write about. You will need two pieces of evidence to show this.

REREAD and edit Read what you have written! It is the basis for your entire essay. Does it make sense? Will you be able to prove this?