Fiction Analysis

Essay 1: Fiction Analysis Your first essay is a fiction analysis, in which you will draw on your notes and blog posts to analyze one of the two short stories we’ve read. Guiding Questions: • What is a central theme of this story? • How does the author use narrative elements to express that theme? Content Requirements: • Engaging introduction that draws the reader in and provides context for the essay. • Strong thesis statement that clearly articulates the writer’s central argument for the essay. • Body paragraphs that include a topic sentence, ample evidence, and a connection back to the thesis statement. • Effective selection and integration of evidence throughout, including MLA citations • Conclusion that reiterates the thesis statement and considers why the theme identified in the essay is relevant to today’s readers. • Overall effective analysis of either “Chasing Chato” by Wayne Rapp or “Bloodchild” by Octavia Butler, demonstrating proficiency in the concepts covered in this unit Form Requirements: • Creative title • At least 3 pages typed in the appropriate format (see formatting sheet) • Appropriate spelling, syntax, and grammar How to begin writing: 1. Select the story you’d like to write about (either “Chasing Chato” or “Bloodchild”). 2. Review your active reading notes, blog post, and peer response for that story. 3. Use what you’ve already written and thought about to fill in the outline below. Outline: I. Introduction a. Hook b. Introduction of text (title, author, year) c. BRIEF (1-2 sentences) plot summary d. Thesis statement: What is a theme of this story, and what narrative elements does the author use to express that theme? (Example: A theme of the film Frozen is that sisterhood is more valuable than romantic relationships, which we see through the characters, setting, conflict, and symbolism.) II. Body paragraph (include as many as you need) a. Topic sentence—what narrative element are you talking about in this paragraph b. Evidence—examples from the story (remember the quote sandwich!) c. Connection back to thesis/theme III. Conclusion a. Reiterate thesis b. What makes this theme relevant to readers today?