Overview

You have taken many notes on your novel. Now you will have the chance to explain what you think the story's message is and what it means to you. Here are some guidelines for the timed-write.

Timed-Write Essay Topics - CHOOSE ONE

- 1. What is the author's message?
  - Include key symbols and supporting themes to support your answer

- 2. Should future classes read/not read this book? Why or why not?
  - Include clear reasons that relate to the novel's themes and message

- 3. Why should I include (or not include) this book as an option for lit circles next year?
  - Include clear reasons that relate to the novel's themes and message
- 4. Your Choice
  - Pitch and idea to me

Timed-Write Essay Formats - CHOOSE ONE

Argumentative Essay - This is a standard expository 6-paragraph essay - Include a counterclaim
Letter to me (You may write in the first person using "I")
Your choice (pitch an idea to me)

Structure - Regardless of which essay option (see below) you choose, all options must include the following 5-6 paragraphs (Introduction, three body paragraphs, counterclaim(s) and a conclusion):

- The Introduction
  - Introduce the book and briefly summarize the book. Write your thesis statement; this is your point of view and what you are arguing. Finally, include a roadmap for the reader of your three key points.
- Three body paragraphs
  - The order of these paragraphs should follow the roadmap from the introduction. Each paragraph should have its own distinct idea/claim that support your thesis along with the literary evidence, reasons and analysis, must support your thesis.
- A Counterclaim
  - You may either add one paragraph after the body paragraphs or add counterclaims into each body paragraph
- A Conclusion
  - This is a chance to pitch your thesis and add a "so what."

Thinking Process

The key is tackling a timed-write is to step back and think the big picture - FOR YOU. Remember that there is no wrong answer. When crafting your argument, it is important to anticipate the counterclaim. In order to do that it is essential to know your audience and their position.

Expectations

Standard W.10.04: Part A (Introduction and Organizing) + Part B (Developing Reasoning)
This is formative.
RELAX
What you write is more important than how you write.
Minimally, write your introduction and outline everything else.
Do NOT try to make this perfect. You will be too invested in your draft to make changes.
TURN it in by the due date.
Lastly, if I suspect you have used Chat GBT or any other AI support, expect to have a conversation; and, if you can not speak to your ideas authentically, you will automatically receive no credit, or "F" for this assignment.