english paper 2-2025-03-06T14:30:10.660Z

Crafting Your Paper

• Cut and Paste Method:

  • Copy content into a Word document.

  • Delete irrelevant information and plug in your topic to create an outline for your paper.

• Thesis Development:

  • Your thesis is the core projected identity of your paper. It’s what you communicate through your writing.

• Structure of Paper:

  • You need 2-3 main points to support your thesis.

  • Example topic: "My Identity in Sports"

    • Supporting Points:

      • Point A: Posters

      • Point B: Trophies

  • Introduction should include your thesis and main points.

• Sample Paper Reference:

  • Look at sample paper #2 for guidance, even though it may not directly relate to your topic.

  • Note that it’s not a perfect example; critique aspects such as conclusion length.

Writing Style and Focus

• Descriptive vs. Semiotic Essays:

  • Emphasize semiotic analysis. Avoid overly descriptive narratives that do not convey analysis of the objects' signals.

  • Your essay should analyze the messages conveyed by the items you discuss.

• Checklist for Review:

  • Use it for peer reviews and self-assessment to ensure proper formatting and content.

  • Look for important elements: thesis clarity, organization, transitions, and grammar.

Paper Components

• Introduction:

  • Must include:

    • Header (name, date, word count)

    • Title

    • Clear thesis

    • Overview of main points.

• Writing the Body:

  • Each body paragraph should include:

    • Topic sentence referencing main point.

    • Evidence that supports the point.

    • Transition to the next point.

  • Example of Structuring a Body Paragraph:

    • "The first way in which we can observe my love of sports can be viewed by the posters on my wall."

    • Discuss specific posters and what they signify about your identity.

• Using Active Language:

  • Focus on words like demonstrates, illustrates, signifies, shows, and reveals to indicate analysis instead of mere description.

  • Example transformation:

    • From descriptiveness: "I saw a trophy."

    • To analytical: "The trophy demonstrates my commitment to sports."

Conclusion

• Closing the Essay:

  • Reflect and restate the thesis in a new light without introducing new information.

  • Summarize main points and affirm the thesis based on the analysis provided.

Final Tips

• Length and Structure:

  • If struggling with word count, add more paragraphs or enrich existing paragraphs with additional examples.

  • Ensure all paragraphs are logically connected with smooth transitions referencing your thesis.

• Personal Reference:

  • Avoid using third person when referring to your own experiences; speak in the first person to maintain clarity and connection.

Class Activity

• Dedicate in-class time to drafting your essay, utilizing all the elements discussed. Focus on writing and refining your content.

• Prepare for the next class by bringing your draft to share and seek further feedback.