Notes: Paper Organization, Tropes, and Writing Tips (9/10)
Introduction to Tonight's Lesson
English 1 class in fall 2025; focus tonight on tropes first, then paper organization, then writing tips.
Plan: start with tropes (metaphor, simile, hyperbole, personification, etc.), then discuss paper organization (structure, introduction, body, conclusion), then cover paper writing tips from the course pack.
Materials referenced: Canvas, YouTube videos, Writer's Reference (chapter one: C, “Composing, Improvising”). Yellow English 1 course pack; SMC bookstore for textbooks. Lectures may be uploaded, but after first weeks students should rely on course pack.
Real-world relevance: revision and polish as lifelong writing habits; emphasis on organization and craft across papers (narrative and research).
Key Concepts and Goals
Tropes and schemes: two broad categories in figures of speech
Tropes: deviation from the ordinary signification of a word; used for meaning and effect (metaphor, simile, personification, hyperbole, onomatopoeia, symbol/metaphorically loaded terms).
Schemes: deviation from the ordinary arrangement of words (not elaborated in depth here, but introduced as distinct from tropes).
Thorough note-taking aim: include every major and minor point from the transcript, with full explanations, examples, and implications.
Core writing goals: learn to use tropes in essays, understand proper paper structure, and master revision/polish as a discipline.
Paper Organization Overview
Structure aligns with Writer's Reference Chapter 1: Introduction, Body, Conclusion; with a focus on both narrative and research papers.
Key components of Introduction (Intro A, B, C):
A: Hook — opening sentence(s) that grab attention.
B: Thesis statement — the statement of claim, position, or opinion (especially for research papers).
C: Forecasting statement — preview of the argument/plan of development (the roadmap of the essay).
A well-crafted Introduction should engage readers and lead to the thesis; typical length: about 50–150 words for a standard intro paragraph, though longer papers may require more than one paragraph.
Narrative papers vs. research papers: narrative introductions may not require a thesis/forecast; research papers require a thesis and explicit forecast.
Epigraphs and Creative Opening: epigraphs (quoted lines before the text) can frame the paper; the speaker urged to consider epigraphs that reflect theme (e.g., Eat, Pray, Love epigraph: “Tell the truth. Tell the truth. Tell the truth.”).
Background and the five W's (Who, What, Where, When, Why) guide the opening, along with a creative first paragraph that may start with scenario/anecdote and then shift to the main intro in the next paragraph.
Naming and Detailing: move from generic statements to specific naming/details to create a vivid and unique narrative (e.g., instead of “I ate breakfast,” specify “Apple Jacks cereal,” or Ukrainian breakfast with porridge, warm milk, steamed apples, etc.).
The importance of coherence: ensure the content of each paragraph matches the topic sentence; watch for pronoun references and clarity.
The Introduction: A, B, C in Practice
Hook: engage readers with a striking opening (possible methods: surprising fact, narrative scenario, stat, question).
Thesis statement (B): state your belief or claim; for research papers, anchor with evidence later in body paragraphs.
Forecasting statement (C): outline the order in which you will develop your arguments or sections (e.g., discuss abortion methods, Turnaway Study, Roe v. Wade status, current debate in DC).
Example given (pro-choice):
Thesis example: { ext{I believe that reproductive rights are the foundation of women's liberation.}}
Forecast example: { ext{In the beginning, I will discuss abortion methods used over 25,000 years, globally; then the Turnaway Study; then Roe v. Wade status; and finally the current debate in Washington DC.}}
Narrative vs. research: narrative papers may not include a forecast; research papers do.
Note: in narration, the thesis and textual citations are not required; instead, a statement of events’ significance and a reflective conclusion are used.
In-class practice: volunteer readings of Intro A, B, and C; discussion of how to craft an engaging hook and a clear thesis.
Epigraphs, Five W's, and Creative Openers
Epigraphs: a quote placed before the start of a work to reflect its theme. Example used: epigraph from Eat, Pray, Love:
Epigraph: "Tell the truth. Tell the truth. Tell the truth."
The five W's of journalism: Who, What, Where, When, Why (and How).
Creative first paragraph: begin with a scenario or anecdote, then move to the main introduction in a second paragraph.
Epigraph usage in papers: consider meaningful quotes that reflect your personal narrative’s theme; e.g., from a parent, a favorite author, or a poet.
Clarification: in some editions, wording may vary slightly; focus on the content rather than exact phrasing.
Naming and Detailing: Making the Narrative Stand Out
Principle: “naming and detailing” adds specificity and uniqueness to writing.
Examples: breakfast detail – instead of generic “I ate breakfast,” specify items (e.g., Apple Jacks; Ukrainian breakfast with specific foods).
Details should be vivid and concrete: e.g., farm breakfast with warm porridge, steamed milk, farm-fresh apples/pears, hot tea; describe setting, sensory cues, and rituals.
Rationale: specific details evoke memories and connect with readers; avoid generic statements.
Class discussion: participants shared personal breakfast memories to illustrate how naming/detailing makes writing vivid.
Body Paragraphs: Structure and Evidence
Body paragraphs begin with a topic sentence that states the paragraph’s content (topic sentence as a roadmap for the paragraph).
Example from Eat, Pray, Love excerpt: a paragraph about Rome begins with a topic sentence about belonging in Rome, followed by descriptive details.
Transitions: use transition words to link ideas (moreover, furthermore, however, conversely, on the other hand) and to guide readers through the argument.
Paragraph length: aim for relatively equal-length paragraphs; roughly two paragraphs per page, with consistent structure.
Roman numeral 2 (D, E, F) details:
D: Quotations—quotations can start the first paragraph (epigraph) or as a support in the paragraph.
E: Background—remember the five W's; provide context as needed.
F: Creative first paragraph—an opening device; creative opening helps engage readers.
Evidence types by paper type:
In a research paper: include statistics, authorities/expert citations, textual citations, and counterarguments; use forecasting statements in the middle to show what’s coming next.
In a narrative paper: rely on anecdotes and juicy details; no formal thesis statements or textual citations required.
Counterarguments in research papers: acknowledge opposing viewpoints and then support or refute them.
Conclusion overview (B): restate the thesis in a new way; summarize points; avoid introducing entirely new material.
Conclusion strategies: end on a strong note; avoid phrases like “In conclusion” or “To summarize”; consider a frame/callback to bring the essay full circle (frame explained below).
The Conclusion: Frame, Full Circle, and Clincher
A conclusion should remind readers of the main position without repeating verbatim.
Framework: end with a frame or callback that ties back to the introduction image or idea.
Frame (full-circle) concept:
Frame = callback in stand-up comedy; return to an image or idea introduced in the intro in the conclusion.
Example: if the intro opens with a hickory pipe scent from a grandfather, the conclusion may reference that scent again to signal closure and continuity.
The frame helps give a sense of completion and connects the essay’s start and end.
Frame vs. clincher: hook is the intro; clincher is the strong ending of the conclusion.
Diana Hacker guidance (C2C): the conclusion should not introduce new material; it should reinforce the thesis and main points.
Summary of the final lines: remind readers why the essay mattered and possibly point toward a new direction or future inquiry without adding new arguments.
Outlining and Organization: How to Plan Your Paper
Outline format reference: Writer’s Reference Chapter 1 (c1e, c2a, etc.) uses an outline structure with Roman numerals and capital letters (e.g., I, A, B, C; II, A, B, C).
Outline example in lecture: shows a two-level or three-level structure to organize ideas before drafting.
Path to outline: c1e (outline planning) in the course materials; an outline is required for the research paper.
Practical note: outlines help arrange arguments and ensure logical progression from introduction to conclusion.
Paper Writing Tips: Process, Formatting, and Style
The core three stages of writing: (1) rough draft, (2) revision, (3) final draft/polish.
Recommended practice: allow at least one day (24 hours) between stages to revise with fresh eyes; revising on the same day reduces clarity because you’ll read what you think you wrote rather than what you actually wrote.
The 101 tips to improve writing (handout): apply these tips to raise your grade; avoid doing the tutor’s work by relying on your own edits.
Look for look-up/editing marks in grammar guides (Diana Hacker or Writer’s Reference) to fix grammar issues in revision.
The Writing Center: Drescher Hall 313; free walk-in appointments; Zoom options available.
Course pack and Canvas: main sources for paper-writing tips; if access issues occur, professors can email or re-upload materials.
Look for a sample outline in the course materials and practice with both outline and draft revisions.
Remember: the more tips you apply, the higher the potential grade; use a systematic revision process to reduce errors and improve clarity.
Formatting, Style, and Source Guidelines
Syllabus and paper requirements (back of syllabus): final drafts must be submitted to Canvas; late or missing components may affect grading.
Final draft requirements:
Typed, double-spaced
Margins at least 1'' on all sides
Font size between 12 and 14
Pages numbered via header or footer (do not number by hand)
Creative, topic-relevant title (not the topic itself)
Narrative vs. research paper title strategy:
Narrative titles often emerge from a phrase within the narrative; a specialized/clever title can arise from the writing process.
For research papers, consider a title and a subtitle that clarifies the content.
Formatting of titles and works:
Major works (books, newspapers, films, CDs, etc.) in italics
Minor works (chapters, articles, songs, poems, etc.) in quotes
Example: Italics for books (Eat, Pray, Love); quotes for chapters (chapter titles) or songs; italics for a CD title; quotes for a song title.
Abbreviations: ie (that is) and e.g. (for example) – use them with their full meaning understood; provide translations in parentheses if helpful.
Numeric style: spell out numbers one through ten; use numerals for numbers above ten; avoid mixing styles in one sentence; consult the style guide for exceptions.
Spell-check and word choice: run spell check on final drafts; search and replace overused words; avoid words like “thing” and other vague terms; use precise nouns and verbs.
Avoid contractions in formal academic writing; avoid clichés unless you can give them a new twist; avoid over-generalizations (absolutes like always, never, every, all, none) in argumentative writing.
Indefinite pronouns: avoid ambiguous pronouns; refer to the noun clearly; maintain consistent pronoun usage within paragraphs to avoid ambiguity and confusion.
Pronoun reference and consistency: ensure pronouns clearly refer to the nearest preceding noun and maintain consistent perspective throughout the piece.
Active voice: prefer active constructions (subject-verb-object) to passive constructions; e.g., "The day dawned bright and balmy" vs. "The day was bright and balmy" depending on style and emphasis.
Tense consistency: maintain consistent verb tenses; narrative sections may occasionally switch to present for effect, but avoid shifting tenses within a single sentence or paragraph.
Indentation: start each paragraph with an indentation; use a consistent indentation (in the demo, five spaces equal one tab; use a tab at the start of each paragraph).
Page structure: roughly two paragraphs per page; ensure content aligns with topic sentences; avoid repeating information across paragraphs.
Look for revision targets: look for word repetition, weak verbs, redundancy, vague pronouns, and misplaced modifiers during revision.
Grammar and Punctuation: Quick Reference Points
Comma usage:
Before conjunctions that join two complete sentences (e.g., and, but, or, etc.)
After introductory word groups, pauses, or phrases
Semicolon: connects two related independent clauses; avoid overuse.
Dash: for dramatic pause or renaming; use as a single dash (not a pair of dashes) for a dramatic pause or to set off a term.
Pronouns: ensure pronoun antecedents are clear (nearest preceding noun); avoid ambiguous pronouns.
Dashes vs. parentheses vs. ellipses: know proper usage; dashes for emphasis; parentheses for additional information; ellipses for omissions.
Contractions: generally not appropriate in formal academic writing; use full forms unless quoting dialogue.
Abbreviations: use I.E. and E.G. with explanation where necessary; avoid overuse in formal prose.
Avoid cliches and avoid expressing complex ideas in simple clichés; use precise language instead.
Punctuation in quotations and titles: follow the italic/quotation conventions described above for titles and quoted material.
Tropes and Figures: Examples and Explanations
Tropes vs. Schemes (recap):
Tropes: deviation from normal meaning (e.g., metaphor, simile, personification, hyperbole, onomatopoeia, metonymy, synecdoche, etc.).
Schemes: deviation from ordinary word order or pattern (not deeply elaborated in this transcript).
Metaphor: A, B are unlike but share a common attribute; A is described as B (A = B in meaning). Example: "The Napa River is a bowl of sweet air." (A = Napa River; B = bowl of sweet air).
Simile: A is like B (uses like or as) to draw a comparison. Example: "The river is like a bowl of sweet air." (A = river; B = bowl of sweet air).
Extended metaphor: a continuous metaphor extended across several lines or paragraphs (as in Eat, Pray, Love with depression/personification).
Hyperbole: intentional exaggeration for effect; e.g., "starving like Marvin" is a humorous hyperbole; "I haven't seen you in centuries" is a hyperbole.
Onomatopoeia: words that imitate sounds (e.g., hiss, clank, etc.); used to evoke auditory imagery.
Personification: giving human or animal qualities to inanimate objects or abstract ideas (e.g., leaves tremble with joy; peace wept at war).
Synecdoche: a part stands for the whole (e.g., "All hands on deck" where hands stand for sailors; a body part representing a group).
Metonymy: a thing or attribute closely associated with the thing stands for the thing (e.g., "the crown" for monarchy; "the brass" for military officers; "the suits" for executives).
Symbols: symbols carry symbolic meaning beyond their literal sense (e.g., rose often symbolizes love; World Trade Center used as a symbol for economic power and tragedy).
Irony, paradox, and oxymoron:
Irony: outcome is opposite of what is expected (e.g., a celebratory finals that is ironically difficult).
Paradox: seemingly contradictory statement that contains truth (e.g., "Truth is a form of lying" in Picasso quote); life as a welter of contradictions.
Oxymoron: two contradictory terms juxtaposed (e.g., "deafening silence", "jumbo shrimp", "civil war").
Rhetorical questions: questions asked for effect, not to solicit an answer (e.g., "What were you thinking?").
Puns: wordplay with double meaning (Shakespearean puns; double entendre). Example: "What do you call a fake noodle? An impostor." (pun).
Syllepsis (syllepsis): one word governs or modifies two or more words in different senses (e.g., "She opened the door to her heart and the runway to her runaway"—note: examples in class were explained and corrected for accuracy; the idea is a word used in two different senses within one sentence).
Suggested classroom activity: readers identify tropes in Eat, Pray, Love and other texts; discuss how tropes illuminate meanings and aid persuasion.
Epigraphs, Framing, and Memory Aids
Epigraph as a framing device: a quotation at the start that reflects the theme.
Frame/Full Circle technique: tie the conclusion back to the introduction image/idea; the frame creates a sense of closure and coherence.
Clincher: the final sentence, a strong closing thought or image.
Connection to rhetoric: all of these devices serve persuasion and effective communication; rhetoric is the art of persuasive written/spoken discourse, rooted in classical theory (Aristotle).
The Rhetorical and World-Contextual View
Rhetoric defined: the art of persuasion in spoken and written discourse; writing assignments aim to persuade readers about ideas, experiences, or actions.
Everyday rhetoric: every time you speak, you are engaging in some form of persuasion; the class aims to equip students with tools to persuade more effectively.
Etiquette of writing: write with honesty and clarity; avoid pedantry and preachiness; maintain engagement with readers.
Practical Tips: Tutoring, Resources, and Mindset
Always leverage available resources: Writing Center (Drescher Hall 313), course pack, Writer’s Reference, Diana Hacker; seek tutoring for grammar and punctuation.
If you miss any documents due to access issues, request a re-upload or email the professor; use Canvas files or course pack for essential guidelines.
The goal is not to check boxes but to apply writing tips; more deliberate application yields higher grades.
Emphasis on practice: revise, refine, and polish; keep revisiting core rules until they become second nature.
Quick Reference: Key Numbers, Formats, and Rules (LaTeX-formatted)
Introduction length guideline: approximately 50 ext{ to } 150 ext{ words} per paragraph (intro); longer papers may require more than one paragraph for introduction.
Paper formatting basics: final drafts must be ext{typed}, ext{double-spaced}; margins ext{≥ }1'' on all sides; font size 12 ext{ to } 14; pages numbered via header/footer.
Indentation rule: start each paragraph with an indentation; five spaces equal one tab: 5 ext{ spaces} = 1 ext{ tab}.
Date and header: include the date after your name; use header/Footer to manage page numbers (avoid manual numbering).
Outline formatting: Roman numerals I, II, III, etc., with capital letters A, B, C; deeper levels may use Arabic numerals 1, 2, 3, etc. as needed.
Three-stage writing process: ext{Draft}
ightarrow ext{Revision}
ightarrow ext{Final polish}; ensure at least a full day (24 hours) between stages.Quotation and citation formatting: major works in italics; minor works in quotes; use italics for book titles and quotes for articles/poems/songs.
Numerical style: spell out numbers 1 ext{ through } 10; use numerals for numbers larger than 10; spell out or use numerals consistently within the same piece as advised by style guidelines.
Quick Study Prompts and Reminders
Identify and classify tropes in a given paragraph (metaphor vs. simile vs. personification vs. hyperbole).
Draft a two-paragraph introduction with a hook, thesis, and forecast; then convert into a three-part introduction per class guidelines.
Create an outline for a research paper using the I, A, B, C structure; include a forecasted roadmap in C.
Find opportunities to use epigraphs, frames, and a strong clincher in your next essay.
Practice identifying pronoun references and revise for clarity and consistency.
End-of-Class Takeaways
The three main pillars: tropes/schemes, paper organization, and revision polish.
Mastery comes from repeated application: use tropes creatively, organize clearly, revise thoroughly, and polish with discipline.
Remember: structure your paper to lead readers from hook to thesis to forecast, through the body’s evidence, to a strong conclusion that returns to a central image or idea (frame/callback).