Thursday, March 17, 2011

Today, you were given the pattern of argument that I like to use in essay writing in preparation of your in-class critical/analytical essay tomorrow. If you don't like this pattern, see Fit to Print to find one that you do like. I then handed out a list of previously used critical/analytical responses. I will be using one of these tomorrow for your exam. The purpose of doing this is to allow you some time to discuss approaches with classmates, as well as to think about structure and what is essential to include (ie: attention getter).
If you want, you can start the exam at 8 a.m. tomorrow. As some of you will, those who are not writing need to come in quietly with their pens, pencils, highlighters, Fit to Print text, dictionary, thesaurus and reading book (for after) already out of their binders and on their person so they won't disturb those who are writing already. Also, remember to put you phones in the day care so you will meet the standards set by Alberta Learning.

I am pasting the sheet you received in class here for those who were absent:

Below is a list of previously used essay topics. I will use one of these for your exam tomorrow. I want you to look at them, highlight the topic words, see if any of these are really the same question just worded a bit differently. Try to create attention getters for them. Try to create a thesis from them that can be specifically proven using evidence from one of the short stories you have used this term (as a class, write down the ones we have read or studied on the board so everyone will know). This is a five paragraph, formal essay without the personal. Look over your notes on how to write the paragraph and essay.

CRITICAL/ANALYTICAL RESPONSE TO LITERARY TEXTS ASSIGNMENT
Suggested time: 1.5 to 2 hours

January 2008

Discuss the idea(s) developed by the text creator in your chosen text about the interplay between fear and foresight when individuals make life-altering choices.

June 2008

Discuss the idea(s) developed by the text creator in your chosen text about how acts of courage develop and nurture integrity.

January, 2009

Discuss the idea(s) developed by the text creator in your chosen text about the ways in which individuals struggle to restore honour and certainty.

June 2009

Discuss the idea(s) developed by the text creator in your chosen text about the significance of idealism and truth in an individual’s life.

January 2010

Discuss the idea(s) developed by the text creator in your chosen text about the ways in which individuals pursue or compromise their happiness.

June 2010

Discuss the idea(s) developed by the text creator in your chosen text about the ways in which individuals take responsibility for themselves and others.

January 2011

Discuss the idea(s) developed by the text creator in your chosen text about the conflict between pursuing a personal desire and choosing to conform.