Hook: Start with a famous quote relevant to the essay topic.
Example: "Hell is other people" by Sartre.
Title and Author: Mention the short story being analyzed.
Topic Introduction: Briefly introduce the topic, e.g., a view of marriage.
Summary: Provide a brief summary of the short story.
Thesis Statement:
Acts as a map for the essay.
Claim: Your opinion about the theme or characters.
Example: "Kate Chopin's The Story of an Hour expresses the oppressive nature of marriage."
Because: Followed by three reasons supporting your opinion.
Body Paragraphs
Structure
Topic Sentence: State the first reason from the thesis statement.
Example: "The settings' reflection of Mrs. Mallard."
Example Analysis
Transition from Grief to Hopefulness: Captured through setting.
Initial grief turning into hope after husband's death.
Observations of springtime symbolize new beginnings.
Evidence: Use direct quotes from the text.
Include MLA citation: Author's last name and page number.
Explanation of Evidence:
Discuss the significance of the evidence.
Example: Unexpected use of the word "delicious" implies freedom from oppression.
Concluding Sentence: Restate the main idea of the paragraph.
Repetition
For each additional body paragraph:
Provide a new reason.
Support with evidence.
Explain how the evidence supports the thesis.
Conclusion
Restatement of Main Ideas: Summarize the key points made in the essay.
Summary
The essay should flow with a clear structure: Introduction with a thesis, body paragraphs with supporting evidence and explanations, ending with a conclusion that ties everything together.