ASSIGNMENT: 1984 Formal Paragraph Response and Reflection Paragraph (This assignment has two parts)
Part 1: Formal Paragraph on 1984
Consider the list of theme topics as prompts to get you thinking about the formation of one theme statement to include in an original topic sentence/thesis for the formal paragraph response.
Important: There is more than one theme in the novel, but this is a short response so focus on what us being said about one topic. Ensure the theme is narrow.
Possible Thematic Topics: social hierarchy, individual freedom, conformity, love, family, ignorance, government power, manipulation, propaganda, war, peace, freedom, slavery, strength, rebellion, surveillance, privacy, government use of technology, control of information, control of action, warnings, authoritarian leaders, predictions, education, power, language, totalitarian governments, oppression, torture, violence, culture of fear, social structure, language, the manipulation of language, political correctness, view of women, gender roles, mind control, brainwashing, appearance versus reality, manipulation of children, social injustice, isolation, betrayal, social status, definition of intelligence, conversion to party beliefs, false friendships etc. (This list will reappear in module 9.)
Review the PDF for how to write a theme statement (writing-thematic-statments pdf) Download writing-thematic-statments pdf) generated from the prompt question. Ensure there is causality in the theme statement.
Write a grammatically correct topic sentence/thesis that includes the title, author and genre (TAG), the theme statement and a concise listing of three proofs.
Follow these steps for your formal paragraph response.
1) Determine a topic that interests you. Do a close read of the novel with a note taking chart and collect any textual evidence/ideas that apply to the topic.
2) Develop a topic sentence/thesis that states the title, author, genre (TAG) the original arguable theme statement (what the author is communicating about the topic) and the three proofs. This can be done in one or two sentences. Ensure that you choose a topic, narrow enough to be covered in one paragraph.
3) Draft of a 12 to 15 sentence paragraph. Integrate evidence from the text in the form of short quotations to support the theme statement. Use between 3 and 6 quotes in the body of the paragraph. Remember to ICE, introduce, cite and explain all quotations in the order that the proofs appear in the topic sentence.
4) Write a strong concluding sentence that restates the theme and summarizes the proof. Then add one more sentence and make a real world connection that demonstrates the continued relevance of the theme.
5) Apply MLA guidelines for document formatting, in text citations and a Works Cited listing. Create a formal three part title for your paragraph: see the ISU essay guidelines for tips on three-part titles. Create an MLA Works cited listing for the primary source, the novel and any secondary references you paraphrase or quote.
6) Apply the STAR Method of revision to proofread and edit for a polished product.
Remember: For the formal paragraph, use third person point of view (POV) and write in present tense when writing about literature. Use formal language and be objective. Ensure you follow MLA guidelines for document formatting, in text citations and a Works Cited page.
Part 2: Reflection Paragraph
Follow these steps for the reflection paragraph.
Reflect on Skills and Strategies: In one short informal paragraph, reflect on and identify your strength as a formal paragraph writer, an area for improvement, and a strategy you found most helpful during the writing process.
Strategies to Possibly Consider in the reflection paragraph:
1: Applying the writing process to brainstorm, draft and edit work.
2. Applying the STAR (Substitute, Take out, Add, Rearrange) method of revision.
3. Doing a Close Read and taking notes on key words from the question
4. Applying ICE (Integrate, Cite and Explain) when embedding textual evidence.
5. Using Turnitin's Draft Coach.
6. Reviewing key concepts, like theme, from prior modules.
7. Collaborating with peers.
