Research Paper 2010

The Process

PreAP English I

Preparation for research one week before:

Set up Google Docs through a gmail account

MLA citations from OWL websitePoet research database homework

assignmentQuoting, Paraphrasing, Summarizing with

article handout

Library Conduct & Expectations

Two students per table maximum…spread out!Research independently…you are all

researching different poets, so there is no reason to work together or talk to each other

No socializing or “mixing” with students from other classes.

-5 points from your daily grade each time Mrs. Rammos has to say something to you!

Library Day 2 – Begin Research!

Objective and things to remember:• Find at least one source to use for the

biographical section of your paper – You will show me your notes for your daily grade at the end of class.

• You must do your research with books and reference books only! (No computers – only for online catalog)

• Make sure you record page numbers and label where you paraphrase, summarize or quote in your notes.

Library Day 3 – Continue Research for the Biographical SectionObjective:Today you will continue your research over biographical

information for your poet. In this section, you must have information from 3 different sources; therefore, your objective today is to complete research for your other 2 sources. You may use another book, research database, or online sources.

Make sure you gather NEW information from the other two sources, not information you already have on your poet or decide what information you are going to use from one source and what information you are going to from the others.

Example of Biographical Section(The following example is to show you how you will use the biographical research to write the biographical section of the paper. This should help guide you in your research today.)

David Henry Thoreau was born on July 12, 1817 in Concord, Massachusetts (Magill 1942). Twenty years after he was born in his grandmother’s farmhouse, Thoreau chose to reverse his given names, to become Henry David, even though this was not legally approved (Miller 12). Thoreau, who then went to Harvard, thought the library “was the finest resource the college had to offer" (Miller 16). Stunned by the amount of knowledge the college had to offer, Thoreau took advantage of it and soon was employed as a teacher, pencil maker, historian, tutor, philosopher and a handyman (Miller 2). Henry David Thoreau and his brother John Thoreau reopened the school they attended as children, The Concord Academy, at which they did a great deal of tutoring (Magill 1944). However, his brother passed away as a result of tuberculosis, and the Concord Academy closed. Later, Thoreau contracted tuberculosis after his social experiment in the woods that is famously known as “At Walden Pond.” This transcendentalist masterpiece “[consists] of his reflections on nature during his daily walks and comments on his readings” (Magill 1951).

Other than writing journals, Thoreau fought for the rights of all men. Being an abolitionist, he refused to pay his poll tax in protest of slavery. Therefore, he was jailed for one day, but someone paid his back taxes and Thoreau was released. This experience prompted him to write “Civil Disobedience” where he states “If a law is such nature that it requires you to be the agent of injustice…then, I say, break the law” (“Henry David Thoreau”). His work inspired leaders like Ghandi and Martin Luther King, Jr. Thoreau eventually succumbed to tuberculosis and died in 1862. He not only left behind two published works but a very influential journal (Magill 1954). Post-mortem, his reputation was very strong and his work so rich that he is called “A man for all seasons” (Miller 20).

Things to remember for today:

Make sure you are recording page numbers and keeping up with what you paraphrase, quote, or summarize

Recommended Databases:Top 4 Databases for Poet Biographies are…Gale - Literature Resource Center - look at the tabs on

the results page for biographiesGale - Literature Resources from Gale - look at the tabs

on the results page for biographiesFacts on File - Bloom's Literary Reference - look at the

tabs on the results page for biographiesGale - LitFinder - checkmark only biography when

entering subjects

On a piece of notebook paper…

Write down the three sources that you are using for the biographical section of your research paper. Include the title of the book or article, as well as what type of source it is (book, reference book, research database, online). Make sure you put your name and class period on your paper before turning it in!

Also, turn in the Research Database Practice homework that was assigned on Tuesday.

Library Day 3 – Literary Criticism

Your objective for today is to find at least one of the two sources you will use for the Literary Criticism section of your paper. You will show me your notes and sources for this section for your daily grade at the end of class.

You may use: reference books that specifically address Criticism or “Analysis”, research databases (the Literary Criticism tab), or online sources

You may print from the computers or make copies of the pages in books and annotate the sources you find (but you need money to pay for the copies/printing) – this can count as “notes” for this section of the project.

What is literary criticism?

You are researching how literary experts perceive your poet and his/her work.

You need to research common themes, inspiration, structure, or frequently analyzed poems.

Stick to things you understand or make sense to you; remember these experts are published professionals. Some of the material will be challenging and difficult to understand.

When writing this section, you will combine your research with your own conclusions and commentary. A sample paragraph is on the next slide.

“Criticism asks what literature is, what it does, and what it is worth."

Encyclopedia Britannica

Literary Criticism Sample Paragraph

Often critics find that Frost is a man of many patterns, but has no pattern at all. Frost often addresses nature, but diverts from nature within his actual “nature” poems. According to critic William Scheick, in his poem “October” he is “curiously askew for a poem about the disconcerting approach of winter” (Scheick). Frost views nature as “antagonistic but he likes it”; nature is not only a force to be reckoned with, but gives us “purpose in life” (Amano). Although some may call this spiritual, with nature involved it leaves the reader with ambiguity, trying to discern the patterns. According to one critic, the lack of pattern could infer the poet's “own inner life, possibly self knowledge" and that the poet "is acquainted but does not know" his inner self well (Amano). Maybe the explication of his poems will never reveal a pattern, remaining “clear on its surface but also more complex upon reflection” (Scheick); however, the fact that there are no patterns – is in fact a pattern.

Works Cited:Amano, Kyoko. "Frost's Acquainted with the Night." The Explicator 65.1 (2006): 39+. Literature Resources from Gale. Web. 25 Mar. 2010.Scheick, William J. "Frost's October." The Explicator 62.2 (2004): 96+. Literature Resources from Gale. Web. 25 Mar. 2010.

Topic Sentence

Due at the end of class today:

At least one source and notes over literary criticism complete for a grade. I will record your grade the last 5 minutes of class.

Reminder: Sentence Structure Extra Credit due tomorrow!

Library Day 5 – Finish Literary Criticism ResearchYour objective for today is to find the second

source you will use for the Literary Criticism section of your paper. You will show me your notes and sources for this section for your daily grade at the end of class.

There will be another class in the center section of the library. You may work on computers or in the side sections. Keep in mind it may be loud and distracting which means you are not to add to that by talking. If you have a question, raise your hand and I will come to you.

Homework for the Weekend

Find the two poems you will analyze in the analysis section of your paper – You will show me the copies of the two poems and your poem citations. *You will need hardcopies of your poems for the appendix of your paper.

You may find your poems in Books, Research Databases, or Online sources

When searching for poems, look for poems that have similar poetic elements because you will analyze both poems and their use of the same elements.

For Example

If my poet were Edgar Allan Poe and I chose to analyze “To Helen” and “Annabel Lee”, I would analyze how Poe romanticizes the idea of women through allusions borrowed from mythology, fairytales, and folklore. (Paragraph 1)

I would also conclude in my analysis that Poe uses images of the sea as a means to travel back in time and return to his idea of peace and comfort. (Paragraph 2)

Do you see my topic sentences and focus for this section of the essay?

Where do I start?

You need to complete detailed TP-CASTT analysis of each poem

Compare pyramids for similarities or ideas that you can develop in this section of the paper

Library Day 6

Wrap-up Research Day: Make sure you have at least 5 sources to use in your paper with complete notes and citations: two print sources (books/reference books), articles from the research databases, online sources

Make sure you have a way to save your paper components all in one place once we start writing (google.docs, flashdrive, h://drive) and that your turnitin.com account is ready to go! No excuses!

Thesis Statements

Step 1

Let the writing process begin!

Thesis Statements

You need a focus before we begin the writing process.

What is a thesis?A thesis statement declares what you

intend to prove. A good thesis statement makes the difference between a thoughtful research project and a simple retelling of facts.

Thesis Statements Continued

Thesis Statement Example:Emily Dickinson often reveals parallels of her life through

her poetry, combining ambiguity with her creative poetic writing style; she crosses boundaries of diverse punctuation and diction to bring forth many tragic themes through a nonconventional format that left her life a mystery to many.

Do we know the main topic/point of the paper?Where does this sentence go? (In the introduction)Get to the point of your paper, but make it evident to the

reader what your paper will be about. Your thesis can be more than one sentence and it needs to be insightful.

Can your thesis statement change throughout the writing process?Yes, your thesis statement can change; however, you

need a starting point.Based off of your research and notes right now, make a

claim about your poet and decide what direction you want to go as a writer.

Please use the thesis worksheet provided to create your thesis. You will write your final thesis at the bottom and turn in to me for approval next class.

I’m here to guide you, but remember YOU are the writer and YOU make choices about YOUR paper. I will not write this paper for you – I did not complete research on your author.

Works Cited Page

Step 2

MLA Format

Works Cited Page: What is MLA?

Modern Language AssociationCollegiate expectation for documentation

of borrowed sources in writings relating to literature, humanities, and language.

Visit the following website: http://www.mla.org/style

Works Cited Page

What is a Works Cited Page?It is a page that displays all of your sources with correct citations according to MLA format.The Modern Language Association continuously updates the format. Make sure you use the guidelines for the 2009 MLA Format for all citations (it is the most recent).

Format

The Works Cited page must: be typed in 12 pt. Times New Roman font be double-spaced with no extra space between citations have the title, Works Cited – centered, not underlined, bolded,

bigger font, etc. – just like the rest of the text! includes a list of all sources used to create the actual text of the

research paper (poems too!) have citations in alphabetical order by the first word of each

citation use a “hanging indent” if the citation goes to a second or

subsequent line italicize book titles and use “quotation marks” around article titles use correct punctuation…every period, colon, comma counts!! not include URLs in citations include Print or Web in a citation

Works Cited Page Example # 1Works Cited

“Croatia.” The New Encyclopedia Britannica: Micropedia. New York: Penguin, 1991. 2:192-

195. Print.

Eco, Umberto. Foucault’s Pendulum. San Diego: Harcourt, 1989. Print.

Franklin, Benjamin. The Autobiography and Other Writings. Ed. Kenneth Silverman. New

York: Penguin, 1986. Print. Harrison, Patricia. Personal Interview. 19 Feb. 1993.

Kermode, Frank. “Criticism Without Machinery.” Literary Reflections, by R.W.B. Lewis. New

York Times Book Review, 11 July 1993. Print.

Leland, John. “The Impolitic: Fashion and its Critics Sell the Same Stereotypes.” Newsweek,

16 June 1996. Print.

“The Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL)”. Web. 12 Feb. 2008.

Notice the citations without authors – they are still in alphabetical order

Notice the date format above

Notice if you go to a second line in your citation, you should indent the second line

Remember the new MLA updates – make sure you type Web or Print, italicize book titles, and do not include URLs

Works Cited Page Example # 2

Example # 2

(Please look at the example we copied for you from the OWL website)

**HINT: When you compile your Works Cited page, if it does not look exactly like the sample provided, something is wrong with your Works Cited page!

What if I need additional help?

To see a list of criteria for an MLA Works Cited page visit:

Works Cited Page Notes Link

Or

The Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL)

Grading Guide for Works Cited Page

Your grade for the Works Cited Page will be based off of the following criteria:

1. MLA Formatting and Guidelines for a Works Cited Page – Did you follow instructions? Do you have any formatting errors? Is your paper formatted according to MLA guidelines?

2. Minimum of 5 Sources (this includes the citations for your two poems and the required sources)

Works Cited Page – Independent

Your turn: Please gather all of your source citations from your notes and begin typing your Works Cited Page

ALL sources should go on this page, including the sources you got your poems from

If you add more sources from now until the end of our research paper, please add them on for your final submission

Your Works Cited page is due next class. Please bring a hardcopy to class

Make sure your google docs and turnitin.com accounts are set up and ready to go

MLA Works Cited RubricTyped in 12 pt. Times New Roman font ______/101” margins on the top, bottom and sides ______ /10Title = Works Cited, centered ______/10 Source citations are aligned on the left _______/10Sources in alphabetical order _______/10Included all of the required source information in MLA format, including new updates with no citation errors _______/10Used correct punctuation ______/10Hanging indent - every line after the first line of the citation is indented _______/10Entire Works Cited Page is Double Spaced _______/10Used at least 5 sources unless noted______/10GRADE: __________

Biographical Section

Step 3: Part I of your research paper

Biographical Paragraphs

Biographical Section:Your biographical section should be no more

than one - two paragraphs. Include only the most salient (that is, the most important) information.

This section must include information from at least three different sources. You may not simply paraphrase one source, no matter how good it is. Essentially copying the information from another source is a pointless endeavor.

Biographical Section Continued

Can I include interesting quotes that my author said? Yes, please do!

Can I include facts that I found interesting? Yes, you are the writer – you make the choices!

Do I use “I believe”, “I concluded” and add my own opinion? Avoid phrases with personal pronouns; however, you can add your own opinion without using personal pronouns – yes, draw conclusions about your author and add your own commentary, but remember it is a formal academic paper, not a personal encounter with the author. Do not refer to your author by their first name – he/she is not your BFF!

Citing Sources – Parenthetical Citations

Remember that you completed research and all of your information and ideas came from your research; therefore, even though you combine your own writing with your research notes, you still have to give credit within your paper

To cite a source within your paper, you must use a PARENTHETICAL CITATION: an abbreviated reference to the complete citation on your Works Cited page in parentheses at the end of the information in the paragraph

Example Citing Sources:

Coulthard sees the story written to show our world’s hunger, to execute and “fulfills a deep and horrifying need” (Coulthard 27). While Coulthard argues that the story’s gruesomeness meets our wants, Jennifer Hicks argues that maybe Jackson was “looking into the future of the American society” that is obsessed with reports of “dysfunctional families, dysfunctional individuals, murder and mayhem” (Hicks 5). She feels that “The Lottery” is ahead of its time and that maybe Shirley Jackson was giving us a peek into the future of us not even wincing when we see someone murdered. These are just a couple of examples of critics who view “The Lottery” as a “wake up call” to our society, but there are still several different views of the short story (“The Wisher” ).

* Notice this source does not have an author; therefore, the student cited the first two words. She also put the title in quotation marks since it was a short story title.

Basic rules for proper parenthetical source citation: 1.   The first word that should appear in the source citation should

correspond to the first word of the corresponding entry as it is on your Works Cited Page. 

2.    A page number is required when the corresponding source has page numbers (all books and reference books).  An interview, research database, or web information, for example will not require a page number.

3.    If the first word of the source citation corresponds to the first word of two or more entries on the works cited page, then additional clarifying information is needed.  You might include the first word of the book title…For example (“Edgar Allan Poe”; American) ; “Edgar Allan Poe”; Modern).

4. If you use a direct quotation, the parenthetical citation must go immediately after the closing quotation marks, even if it lands in the middle of the sentence. If you are summarizing or paraphrasing, the parenthetical citation goes at the end of the sentence.

 

What do you do if there is no author name in your citation?If your citation does not have an author, you will

include the first few (usually two) words of your citation from your Works Cited Page.

Example Below:These are just a couple of examples of critics who view “The Lottery” as a “wake up call” to our society, but there are still several different views of the short story (“The Wisher”).

* Notice this source does not have an author; therefore, the student cited the first two words. The student also put the title in quotation marks since it was a short story title/article title.

Biographical Section – Credit to sources

Even if you paraphrase or summarize a source, you must give credit or it is considered plagiarism!

If you copied notes from a source and wrote them word for word, make sure you put quotation marks around them and give credit at the end of the sentence – they are not your words!

Grading Guide for Biographical Section

You give credit to the source/author and avoid plagiarism

Your citations are formatted correctly according to MLA format

You cite at least 3 different sources that appear on your Works Cited Page

You use a variety of sentence structure tools, including complex sentences

(You will not receive an “A” on this section if every sentence starts with “He was, He was, He is, He was etc.”)

Biographical Section Preparation: Your turn Now look at your Works Cited page. I want you to write down using

parentheses how you will cite them in your paper.

For example, if my citation was: “Crossing Brooklyn Ferry.” Masterplots II. Pasadena, California:

Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, 1992. Volume 2: 473. Print. My citation will be (“Crossing Brooklyn”) because this example

reflects how I will write it in my paper.

If my citation was: Miller, James E. "Song of Myself." The Walt

Whitman Archives. 1995. The Walt Whitman Encyclopedia. Web. 24 Mar. 2009.

My citation will be (Miller).

*Make sure you understand that in your paper, you will have to include page numbers...example (Miller 5).

Rough Draft Due next class for Biographical SectionYour typed rough draft of the biographical section is due

tomorrow for a daily grade. We will revise and edit this section tomorrow. After we revise and edit this section, we will go to the computer lab to make corrections; therefore, please make sure you have a way to access your paper (flashdrive or google docs recommended!)

12 point Times New Roman Font ONLY! Double space and indent paragraphs!

This does not take the place of your introduction...we will write the intro and conclusion at the end.

Graded Works Cited

Pick up your graded Works Cited page from the front table

Look over the notes and missed points on the rubric

You must fix all of the issues before resubmitting it with the final draft of your biographical section

Biographical Revising and Editing

Spell out any number 0 - 100, excluding dates (keep dates the same – do not spell out)

Do not use contractions (Example - change: wasn’t to was not)

Do not refer to your poet by their first nameDo not use exclamation marks Avoid informal language (remember diction is

just as important to the writer as it is for the reader)

Place quotation marks around poem titles, italicize book titles

Sentence Structure

How can we combine the following sentences:Lewis Carroll contemplated numerous titles

before finally settling on Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

He hired an illustrator for the Alice books.He published the books in 1863.He wrote the adventures to entertain children.Carroll received criticism for his serious poetry,

but was “praised for his nonsense and humorous works”.

Sentence Structure Continued

Review each sentence and find a way to combine a few of them.

Remember to cut out the “fluff” in your writing

Use your sentence structure tools – they are your friends!

Writing

Did you use your own commentary in support of your research or are your paragraphs simply regurgitated facts?

Do your paragraph(s) flow and are they organized?

Do you cover enough material to give me a glimpse into your poet’s life?

MLA Citations

Do you have 3 different sources cited in your paper and are they formatted correctly according to MLA and your works cited page?Example: (Miller 2)Example: (“The Well”)Example: ( Walt Whitman; American 4)

Biographical Section

Your final draft for the biographical paragraph is due next class period for a quiz grade. You will submit your paper to turnitin.com and bring a printed copy to class. Attach your works cited page (corrected and updated) behind your biographical section when you bring your final copy to class.

Make sure you use the MLA heading, title = Biographical Section, 12 point Times New Roman Font ONLY! Double space and indent paragraphs!

(Bring literary criticism notes next class – we will begin the next section)

Biographical Paragraph Grading Rubric (Major Grade)

Biographical Paragraph Grading Rubric (Major Grade)

Grading Criteria – Biographical Section Maximum Points Points Earned 3 different sources cited from Works Cited Page 30 Parenthetical citations formatted correctly according to MLA Format; citations correlate with Works Cited Page

15

Content and Focus - writer makes choices in writing that enhances their paper. The information clearly relates to the main topic. It includes several supporting details and/or examples. Information is organized with well constructed paragraph(s). Student uses their own commentary and ideas in support of research.

25

Writing Conventions and Formatting - Student uses sentence structure tools to form complex sentences and student follows formatting instructions (12 point font, Times New Roman, double spaced, indented paragraphs, etc.)

15

Submitted to turnitin.com and brought a printed copy to class with a an updated Works Cited Page attached

15

Grade: ____________

Literary Criticism Section

Step 4: Part II of your research paper

Literary Criticism Section

The literary criticism section should be one paragraph. Include only the most salient (that is, the most important) information.

This section must include information from at least two different sources (you may include more than one source – the more the better!) You may not simply paraphrase one source, no matter how good it is. Essentially copying the information from another source is a pointless endeavor.

Literary Criticism

What is literary criticism? “Criticism asks what literature is, what it does, and what it is worth." Encyclopedia Britannica

What are you supposed to do in your paper? You have gathered literary criticism from at least 2 different sources. Now you will combine your research with your own conclusions and commentary to compose a paragraph that focuses on your poet’s style, subject matter, body of work, literary impact and influence.

Literary Criticism Paragraph Example

Often critics find that Frost is a man of many patterns, but has no pattern at all. Frost often addresses nature, but diverts from nature within his actual “nature” poems. According to critic William Scheick, in his poem “October” he is “curiously askew for a poem about the disconcerting approach of winter” (Scheick). Frost views nature as “antagonistic but he likes it”; nature is not only a force to be reckoned with, but gives us “purpose in life” (Amano). Although some may call this spiritual, with nature involved it leaves the reader with ambiguity, trying to discern the patterns. According to one critic, the lack of pattern could infer the poet's “own inner life, possibly self knowledge" and that the poet "is acquainted but does not know" his inner self well (Amano). Maybe the explication of his poems will never reveal a pattern, remaining “clear on its surface but also more complex upon reflection” (Scheick); however, the fact that there are no patterns – is in fact a pattern.

Works Cited:Amano, Kyoko. "Frost's Acquainted with the Night." The Explicator 65.1 (2006):

39+. Literature Resources from Gale. Web. 25 Mar. 2010.Scheick, William J. "Frost's October." The Explicator 62.2 (2004): 96+.

Literature Resources from Gale. Web. 25 Mar. 2010.

Literary Criticism Example

Can you locate the topic sentence?Did you see how the writer combined their own

commentary/conclusions with other critics?Literary Criticism section can focus on one – two

works, or you can take a broader approach and focus on their works as a whole.

You are the writer - make choices in your writing that are interesting and add variety to your paper.

Grading Guide for Literary Criticism SectionYou cite at least two different sources in your

paragraph from your Works Cited PageYou do not plagiarize and give credit to the

source/authorYour citations are formatted correctly according to MLA

formatYou use a variety of sentence structure tools, including

complex sentencesYou add your own commentary in support of your

research/evidenceYou submit your assignment to turnitin.com and bring a

printed copy to class attached to your updated Works Cited page on the due date

Literary Criticism: Your Turn

Your literary criticism paragraph is due tomorrow for a quiz grade. Submit your literary criticism paragraph to turnitin.com and bring a printed hardcopy to class with an updated Works Cited page attached.

Remember: MLA heading, title = Literary Criticism Section, 12 point Times New Roman Font ONLY! Double space and indent paragraphs!

** Make sure you have your poems with you next class – we will begin the analysis section of the paper and you will need your poems

Literary Criticism Section Grading Rubric (Quiz Grade)

Grading Criteria Maximum Points

Points Earned

2 different sources cited from Works Cited Page 20

Parenthetical citations formatted correctly according to MLA Format and did not plagiarize

20

Student uses a variety of sentence structure tools, including complex sentences

20

Content and Focus – writer makes choices in writing that enhances their paper. The information clearly relates to the main topic. It includes several supporting details and/or examples. Information is very organized with well constructed paragraph(s). Student uses their own commentary and ideas in support of research.

20

Writing Conventions and formatting (12 point font, double spaced, Times New Roman, indented paragraphs, etc.)

10

Submitted to turnitin.com and brought a hard copy to class with a an updated Works Cited Page attached

10

Grade: ____________

Analytical Section (2 poems)

Step 5: Part 3 of your research paper

Next Step: Analytical Paragraphs

Mr. Wevodau has selected three poems by Emily Dickinson. The selections are NOT random: he chose poems that appear to have common threads. The analytical section of your research paper draws conclusions about the poet's style and content as expressed by your selections.

Poems

Please read the poems, then read the analytical paragraphs that follow, which serve as models for your research paper.

NOTE: Emily Dickinson did not title her poems. When they were published after her death, the publisher attached numbers to them so that they could be distinguished from each other in conversation. Later publishers just used the first line of the poem as the de facto title.

Poem # 1

254 by Emily Dickinson "Hope" is the thing with feathers—

That perches in the soul—And sings the tune without the words—And never stops—at all—

And sweetest—in the Gale—is heard—And sore must be the storm—That could abash the little BirdThat kept so many warm—

I've heard it in the chillest land—And on the strangest Sea—Yet, never, in Extremity,It asked a crumb—of Me.

Dickinson, Emily. "Hope (1)." Poet's Gold. Ed. David Ross. Macauley Company, 1933. 155. LitFinder for Schools. Web. 9 Apr. 2010.

Poem # 2

185 by Emily Dickinson"Faith" is a fine invention

When Gentlemen can see—But Microscopes are prudentIn an Emergency.

Dickinson, Emily. "Faith Is a Fine Invention." Modern Poets' World. Ed. James Reeves. William Heinemann, 1957. 23. LitFinder for Schools. Web. 9 Apr. 2010.

Poem # 3

239 by Emily Dickinson

"Heaven"—is what I cannot reach!The Apple on the Tree—Provided it do hopeless—hang—That—"Heaven" is—to Me!

The Color, on the Cruising Cloud—The interdicted Land—Behind the Hill—the House behind—There—Paradise—is found!

Her teasing Purples—Afternoons—The credulous—decoy—Enamored—of the Conjuror—That spurned us—Yesterday!

Dickinson, Emily. "Forbidden Fruit: 2." Anthology of the New England Poets: from Colonial Times to the Present Day. Ed. Louis Untermeyer. Random House, 1948. 497. LitFinder for Schools. Web. 9 Apr. 2010.

 

Analytical Paragraph #1: The three poems all contained a positive attitude: a wonderment at life through theme and characterization.

Dickinson's poetry expresses a wonderment at the beauty of life through characterization and theme. In Poem 254, she speaks of Hope as "the little Bird that kept so many warm" yet "never, in Extremity, asked a Crumb of me." Her characterization of Hope as something inside of us that picks us up in in the darkest, most dangerous situations (such as "the chilliest land" or "the strangest Sea") demonstrates an optimism of life.  Though Dickinson appears to express frustration in Poem 254, "Heaven--I cannot reach!" readers should perhaps recognize that the author also claims to be surrounded by Heaven. The poet describes Heaven as all of the following: "The Apple on the Tree“, "The Color, on the cruising cloud“, and "Her teasing purples." (The latter presumably referring to mountains in the distance.) These three images are all objects in nature that the poet finds beautiful; however, they are all out of reach. The conflicting images suggest that it could be negative or a positive expression that Heaven surrounds us though we seem unable  to recognize it. Regardless, Dickinson sees beauty and wonder around her, a reoccurring theme in her writing (Dickinson; “Hope”), (Dickinson; “Forbidden”).

Note how he addresses characterization and theme…did he support his findings?Works Cited:Dickinson, Emily. "Hope (1)." Poet's Gold. Ed. David Ross. Macauley

Company, 1933. 155. LitFinder for Schools. Web. 9 Apr. 2010.

Dickinson, Emily. "Forbidden Fruit: 2." Anthology of the New England Poets: from Colonial Times to the Present Day. Ed. Louis Untermeyer. Random House, 1948. 497. LitFinder for Schools. Web. 9 Apr. 2010.

 

Topic Sentence

Note about paragraph # 1

COMMENT: Dickinson also wrote of death and depression. Your analytical paragraphs are based solely on the poems selected. Your conclusions do not stretch to all works. Do not write about the author's entire catalog of writings: Write in response only to the selected poems.

Analytical Paragraph #2: Observe how Dickinson capitalizes words that do not need to be capitalized. The question is why?

In her poetry, Emily Dickinson used capitalization to emphasize important words or ideas. Poem 254 contains three references to "hope": "Hope," "Bird," and "It." The first and last beginning lines are capitalized necessarily, but the word "bird" would not be capitalized as it is used; however, Dickinson apparently chose to capitalize "Bird," referring to "Hope," in order to emphasize how important it is to us--that Hope keeps our spirits up even in the darkest times. Similarly, in Poem 239, Dickinson capitalizes "Cruising Cloud," "Hill," and "Purples" when these words should all be lowercase by rule. Because this poem exalts the beauty of nature, and these words all refer to beauteous objects in nature, the capitalization represents their significance and importance in the mind of the author, which in turn reemphasizes the beauty of nature. By using capitalization as a tool for emphasis, Dickinson is able to direct the reader to words and concepts that she finds especially important, adding meaning to her poetry (Dickinson; “Forbidden”), (Dickinson; “Hope”).

Works Cited:Dickinson, Emily. "Forbidden Fruit: 2." Anthology of the New England

Poets: from Colonial Times to the Present Day. Ed. Louis Untermeyer. Random House, 1948. 497. LitFinder for Schools. Web. 9 Apr. 2010.

Dickinson, Emily. "Hope (1)." Poet's Gold. Ed. David Ross. Macauley Company, 1933. 155. LitFinder for Schools. Web. 9 Apr. 2010.

Note about paragraph # 2

COMMENT: Your analysis draws conclusions from your readings and offers evidence. Incorporating direct evidence with explanation from two poems is sufficient to prove your point.  

Analytical Paragraph #3: The poet's prevalent use of

figurative language to express her ideas. Emily Dickinson frequently used figurative language in order to express her ideas. In

Poem 254, Dickinson writes "Hope is the thing with feathers." Using an extended metaphor throughout the poem, Dickinson continually suggests that Hope is like a bird: "perches," "the little Bird," "sings the tune without the words," "asked a crumb." Her point is that Hope lifts the human spirit, just as a bird's wings lift it from the ground to the air. This use of figurative language allows Dickinson to clearly explain her concept of "hope." Dickinson's Poem 185 uses synecdoche, a literary device in which a part of something is used to represent the whole. When the poet writes "Faith is a fine invention / When Gentleman can see-- / But microscopes are prudent / In an Emergency," the word microscope is used to represent science. With this understanding, the reader can clearly see that Dickinson values science--and hence human reason--over faith--or human belief. Dickinson uses figurative language to convey her ideals about life (Dickinson; “Hope”), (Dickinson; “Faith”).

(I am only showing you what my citations would look like on my works cited page – you do not separate your citations under each paragraph. They should be cited at the end of each paragraph according to MLA format like in the paragraph above. Below is just an example of my works cited citations for your viewing.

Works Cited:Dickinson, Emily. "Hope (1)." Poet's Gold. Ed. David Ross. Macauley

Company, 1933. 155. LitFinder for Schools. Web. 9 Apr. 2010.

Dickinson, Emily. "Faith Is a Fine Invention." Modern Poets' World. Ed.

James Reeves. William Heinemann, 1957. 23. LitFinder for Schools. Web. 9 Apr. 2010.

Note about paragraph # 3

COMMENT: Most writers use figurative language to express their ideas. Most poets can be analyzed on this general point if you are having a hard time finding a common thread.

Analytical Section:Organizing your paper

Mr. Wevodau chose to address the poems by common literary elements, syntax, and stylistic devices in each paragraph; however, it is up to you how you organize your paper. Remember – YOU ARE THE WRITER! IT IS YOUR CHOICE! We will not examine every poem for you and tell you what to write about – this is your job and a skill you will master by the end of this semester.

Citing sources in the analytical section

The same rules apply for citing sources in this section. Any information used from another source must be cited correctly.

You will cite your poems at the end of each paragraph.Will you have as many citations in this section compared

to your biographical section? No, probably not since this section is mostly YOUR ANALYSIS. Some of you may not have any citations other than the poem citations at the end and that is okay. If you happen to have a few citations, make sure it is minimal – this is YOUR analysis…not another person’s analysis.

Paragraph Structure

The analytical section of your research paper should be made up of paragraphs that follow the analytical paragraph structure: Topic Sentence Embed Evidence #1 Commentary/Analysis X2 Embed Evidence #2 Commentary/Analysis X2* Concluding/Transition Sentence

*You can include more than two pieces of evidence. However, all evidence must be followed by

commentary/analysis (evidence + commentary = chunk). The number of chunks you have is up to you as the writer!

Grading Guide for Analytical Section

You meet the objective of the assignment – you do not analyze the poems in isolation, but find common threads and similarities that convey meaning

You do not plagiarize If you use sources, you give credit to the source/author and citations are formatted

correctly according to MLA format You cite your poem sources at the end of each paragraph You use a variety of sentence structure tools, including complex sentences – very

important! You add your own commentary in support of your research/evidence – I will be

grading this section closely – make sure your paragraph(s) contain depth….do not simply say he uses a lot of metaphors…tell me why..what is the purpose…tie it to meaning or it is pointless – we are now beyond surface level….only papers with in depth analysis tied to meaning will receive an “A”

Your paragraph(s) contain a topic sentence, evidence from your poems and commentary – think about the academic paragraph – if you are missing any three of these, there will be major points off!

You submit your assignment to turnitin.com and bring a printed copy to class attached to your updated Works Cited Page and your poems

Analytical Section: Your Turn

Now you will begin the most important part of your research paper – the analytical paragraphs. It is up to you how many paragraphs you write and how you organize your analysis. Next class you need to bring a typed copy of your analytical paragraphs to class. This is just a rough draft – we will revise and edit next class period.

Note: Times New Roman 12 pt. font, double space, 1 inch margins, left aligned, indent paragraphs and do not forget your sentence structure tools! You do not need to submit your rough draft to turnitin.com – just bring the printed copy to class.

Analytical Section Grading Rubric (Major Grade)

Grading Criteria Maximum Points

Points Earned

Poems are cited and formatted correctly according to MLA format; they appear on the UPDATED Works Cited Page; they are cited at the end of each paragraph; and the student did not plagiarize

25

Student uses a variety of sentence structure tools; evidence of thoughtful revision and improvements are present; student uses advanced writing techniques such as embedding quotes and complex sentences

20

Content and Focus – writer makes choices in writing that enhances their paper. The information clearly relates to the main topic and meets the objective of this section – to find common threads/similarities in author’s poems that are tied to meaning and includes several supporting details and/or examples from the poems. Student uses their own commentary and ideas in support of research. Paper contains insightful content; writing displays connections with text that is above average; content is focused on the objective and clear throughout the entire paper; Information is organized with well constructed paragraph(s). Thoughtful planning is evident; the organization contributes to the flow of the paper and is not distracting

30

Writing Conventions (grammar) and formatting; paper is attractive, neatly prepared, and displays evidence of thoughtful planning. (12 point font, double spaced, Times New Roman, indented paragraphs, 1 inch margins etc.)

10

Submitted to turnitin.com, brought a hard copy to class with an updated Works Cited Page and poems attached

15

Grade: ___________

Revise and Edit SectionStep 6

Revising and Editing Step 1 - The following phrases are BANNED:

they tend to be fillers in our language when we talk – no need to use them in our writing.

"is because” “is about” ”is mainly about” "in conclusion” “in my opinion” “as you can see” “such as”

***Please read the sentence to make sure it makes sense before deleting – you will probably have to rearrange your sentence

“for example” “is saying” “I think” “this shows” “also” "in summary" “this means” “this could be” MAKE STATEMENTS!

Cut them out!

Limit the number of uses of the following helping verbs: is, was, were, had, has. These words tend to be overused. Reword the sentences to use ACTION verbs. (Showing is not the only word out there)

For example…..

Change up your actions…

EmphasizingClaimingPortrayingRevealingRepresentingSymbolizingdepictingcomparing

DescribingCharacterizingcontradictingdisplayingAssertingPresentingExhibitingchallenging

Revising Sentences –See Examples

# 1 Original Sentence: In the famous poem “Annabel Lee”, Poe exclaims “the angels, not half as

happy as in heaven, went envying her and me”. This could paint the picture of a godly love that people around could only wish to have some day in their life.

Revised Sentence: In the famous poem “Annabel Lee”, Poe claims that “angels…went envying her

and me”, painting a picture of heaven by using religious imagery.

# 2 Original Sentence: Poe shows an almost obsessed feeling with his wife Virginia after her death. In

“Annabel Lee” he claims “but we loved with a love that was more than love – I and my Annabel Lee”.

Revised Sentence: Poe consistently alludes to his late wife’s passing, claiming they “…loved with a

love that was more than love”; often using poetry to deal with his grief and using the illusion of love as a metaphor to overcome her death.

Notice the combining of sentences and word choice. Try starting a sentence with a verb - example “painting”, “emphasizing” etc. Look at the difference between these sentences and take note where they made their revisions.

Revising and Editing Continued

1. Combine sentences using semi-colons. These work perfectly with sentences joined by "however," “therefore”, and "furthermore," etc.

2. Remember complex sentences make for a better paper – use the tools you have learned this year or all of your hard work is wasted!

Avoiding Run-on Sentences

1. We can insert a period and start a new sentence.

Some students think they can study for an important exam by “cramming” all night. They are probably wrong.

We can insert a comma plus a coordinating conjunction.

Some students think they can study for an important exam by “cramming” all night, but they are probably wrong.

3. We can use a semicolon.

Some students think they can study for an important exam by “cramming” all night; they are probably wrong.

Did you follow this structure?

Annotate:Topic Sentence - underline

Embed Evidence #1 - bracketCommentary/Analysis - highlightEmbed Evidence #2 - bracketCommentary/Analysis - highlightConcluding/Transition Sentence - underline

Your analysis

Do not simply summarize or paraphrase the poem in your analysis – tie it to meaning, analyze and answer the question – why did the poet make this choice? – take risks in your writing.

Make sure you have more analysis/commentary than evidence.

Revise and Edit

Spell out any number under 100, excluding dates (keep dates the same – do not spell out)

Do not use contractions (Example - change: wasn’t to was not)

Do not refer to your poet by their first nameDo not use exclamation marks Avoid informal language (remember diction is just as

important to the writer as it is for the reader)Place quotation marks around poem titles, italicize book

titlesMake sure you are specific when referring to a poem for

the first time – include the poem titleAre all of your quotes (evidence) embedded?

Did you cite your sources correctly? Look at the example below…In her poetry, Emily Dickinson used capitalization to emphasize

important words or ideas. Poem 254 contains three references to "hope": "Hope," "Bird," and "It." The first and last beginning lines are capitalized necessarily, but the word "bird" would not be capitalized as it is used; however, Dickinson apparently chose to capitalize "Bird," referring to "Hope," in order to emphasize how important it is to us--that Hope keeps our spirits up even in the darkest times. Similarly, in Poem 239, Dickinson capitalizes "Cruising Cloud," "Hill," and "Purples" when these words should all be lowercase by rule. Because this poem exalts the beauty of nature, and these words all refer to beauteous objects in nature, the capitalization represents their significance and importance in the mind of the author, which in turn reemphasizes the beauty of nature. By using capitalization as a tool for emphasis, Dickinson is able to direct the reader to words and concepts that she finds especially important, adding meaning to her poetry (Dickinson; “Forbidden”), (Dickinson; “Hope”).

Checklist

Do you have sufficient evidence? Did you use your sentence structure tools? Did you use diverse punctuation (semi – colon, colon, etc.)? Do your paragraphs flow and are they well organized? Did you follow format instructions? Did you attach your updated Works Cited Page and two poems to

your analytical paragraphs? Do you have more commentary than evidence? Did you cite your poems at the end of each paragraph? Did you place quotation marks around poem titles Ex: In the poem

“Hope”… Did you embed your quotes?

Grading Guide for Analytical Paragraphs

Structure/Paragraph Construction/content The paper is logically arranged with smooth transitions. The information clearly relates to the main topic. It includes several supporting details and/or examples. Information is organized with well constructed paragraphs. Student uses their own commentary and ideas in support of research and poem evidence. Analysis makes connections to the evidence and does not simply summarize. Student uses a variety of writing techniques, complex sentences, and skills learned throughout the year. Evidence/quotes are embedded.

Grading Guide Continued

Sufficient evidence – facts, quotes, examples to support main ideas

Sources and information are correctly documented following MLA format

Evidence of careful proofreading with few errors in spelling, punctuation, and grammar; sentences are complete. Paper is typed and formatted according to MLA format.

Paper is attractive, neatly prepared, and displays evidence of thoughtful planning.

Analytical Paragraphs – Final Copy Due for a Major Grade!

Please submit your paragraphs to turnitin.com and bring a printed copy to class, an updated works cited page, and copy of poems.

Note: MLA Heading, title = Analytical Section, Times New Roman 12 pt. font, double space, 1 inch margins, left aligned, indent paragraphs and don’t forget your sentence structure tools!

When you turn in your final copy, you need to attach your poems and your updated Works Cited sheet to the back of your analytical paragraphs. Your analytical paragraphs should be stapled on TOP!

Introduction and Conclusions

Step 7

Intro/Conclusion and Revised Thesis

Begin your next step; revise your thesis statement and write your introduction and conclusion.

Where does your thesis statement go?

In your introduction!

What is the purpose of your introduction?

To introduce your paper and grab your audience’s attention!

Introduction

Don't be dull! Draw attention to your work. Engage the reader. Be the fisherman: Hook the audience and reel them in.

Try using something interesting from their life or a famous quote they said.

Examples(Thesis is bold/underlined)

Accomplished writer, dutiful daughter and loving mother, Sylvia Plath lived a

life that reflected all of these things. She both triumphed and suffered, shaping her into the poet that she was to become. Plath’s suffering and anguish is reflected in her use of striking diction and imagery demonstrating that things are not always what they seem; furthermore, illustrating the harsh dark side of humanity that eventually drove her into suicidal hysteria.

“Not all of my poems are to be read aloud – some…are to be seen and not heard” (cummings). Being an artist, e.e. cummings was concerned with the visual aspects his poetry. He expressed his unconventional view of the world in his poetry, creating complete sensory experiences for his readers. As a result of three marriages, his views about love and life are expressed using creative syntax and repetition to make his poems visually and emotionally appealing.

Conclusion

Everyone needs closure!This could be the most important part of your

paper because you have to make a lasting impression.

Try to restate your main points. Yes, this could be similar to your introduction, but it needs to be different. Avoid statements like “in conclusion”, “now I have stated” etc. This is your LAST IMPRESSION on the reader!

Examples

Robert Burns, son of a tenant farmer, grew up and out of his father’s shoes and made a name for himself in poetry. Burns used repetition and details, among many other poetic devices, to construct his most beautiful love poems. His magnificent poems quickly make him Scotland’s most honorable and well-known poet.

Many of the themes and idea throughout Edith Sitwell’s works can be traced to events and ideas she experienced throughout her life. From her dissatisfaction towards her parents and childhood, to her feelings towards war and her later devotion to new-found religious beliefs, emotions and allusions are tied to her nonsensical, modernist verse. With this creative approach, she left a lasting impression on English poetry and the poets of later generations.

We will start preparing to put your entire paper together next class!

Bring all papers that I have graded and returned – works cited, biographical, literary criticism

Bring your intro/thesis/conclusionHave a way to access your entire paper –

each section! Google docs, flash drive, etc. You will need an electronic version next class!

Final Submission Guidelines

Step 8

What is neat and professional looking?

If you can answer this question and follow instructions, you should receive an “A” on this last step.

Cover Page (Title Page)

Cover Page – remember it is a formal page It must contain the following:

Title (Your author’s name) You can be creative and add a quote, but make sure it looks

professional Your Name Class Period Date Picture/Image of your author Choose a professional looking font Minimize white space and awkward page set up/images Try using a template – I will show you an example Borders work well with title pages

Next is your TABLE OF CONTENTS

It should have the title of each page and page numbers.Example:

1. Research Paper 22. Works Cited Page 63. Appendix 7

• Numbers may vary depending on YOUR ESSAY…watch white space

• Do not include title page• Make sure you title this page Table of Contents

Next you will attach your paper

Remember your essay should contain the following with all revisions made!Introduction with thesis statement underlinedAll sections: biographical paragraph(s), literary

criticism paragraph(s), and analytical paragraphs ConclusionThe entire paper should be combined – not

separated anymore!Revised and updated Works Cited Page

Add 2 graphics to your paper and format a text wrap (images should be appropriate and small –

not a distraction) If you do not know how to format a text wrap,

instructions are below:1. Insert your image

2. Select format at the top, select “picture” on the drop down menu, click on the “layout” tab

3. Next, select the type of text wrap you want to use (I prefer a left or right text wrap) MAKE SURE IT IS PROFESSIONAL AND DOES NOT LOOK AWKWARD.

Appendix

Next you will include an appendix – make sure this section is titled APPENDIX on a separate sheet and then attach your two poems to follow this sheet.

In this section you will include your poems, your research project reflection (we will complete next class), graded drafts of each section and any additional information you would like to include. For example, extra pictures/documents/notes etc.

Paper Formatting

Times New Roman 12 pt. fontdouble space 1 inch margins, left aligned indent paragraphs Page numbers on every page except for

the title page – there is not a page number on the title page! (go to “insert” and then click on “page numbers” – uncheck the box that says “show number on first page”)

Last but not least….

You will submit your paper in the following order (points off if it is out of order – this order is from top to bottom!)Title pageTable of ContentsPaperWorks Cited PageAppendixPlease turn in your paper stapled together in this

order or presented in a nice, neat folder or portfolio.YOU DO NOT SUBMIT THIS SECTION TO

TURNITIN.COM!

Due Dates:

Monday November 28 – 10 pts. extra credit!

Tuesday November 29 – full credit

…at the beginning of class. Paper MUST be printed and put together when you walk in the door.

No paper will be accepted after Tuesday November 29.

CONGRATULATIONS…you have officially completed the research

paper for PreAP English I!

YAY!