TO SOLIDIFY THE 4/4 ON CONVENTIONS:
· eliminate frag/run-ons
· eliminate homonym errors
· N2sswtswiap (reminder for varying sentence starters: No 2 Sentences Start With the Same Word In A Paragraph)
· Limit “to be” verbs—verbs should be active, avoid passive construction
· Vary sentence length and structure to create emphasis
· Use (when possible) a cumulative sentence or a sentence with a colon or semi-colon to demonstrate mastery of sophisticated construction
TO move up to a 4/6 on Development
a.k.a Nailing the Formula:
· Hook
· 3 prong thesis statement (statement: proof; proof; and, proof)
· simple transitions (First, Second, Finally)
· Good, Better, Best--5 paragraph structure
· Body paragraphs w/ topic sentences and supporting sentences
· Use the story to support writer’s assertion about the theme, conflict, character
· Revisit thesis in conclusion
To move up to a 5/6 on Development
a.k.a. Beefing up the Formula
· Hook—connective map—thesis
· Thesis captures theme implicit in 3 prong, controversial, beyond the literal
· Advanced transitions (however, in contrast, etc.)
· Narrative/analysis weave in the body paragraphs
· Revise thesis in conclusion
· End with a universal lesson from the story (LOTF: You can take the boys out of the war, but you can’t take the war out of the boys.)
To move up to a 6/6 on Development
a.k.a. Transcending the Formula
· Focus paragraph: rhetorical questions or cogent anecdote
· Thesis paragraph: demonstrate nuance early, perhaps suspend thesis statement, ending opening w/rhetorical question that the essay thoroughly answers
· Establish and maintain voice with distinct writing style—some simple yet advanced syntactic devices such as purposeful repetition or antithesis may pay off, along w/ the dictionary aided use of
· Transparent transitions
· Narrative/analysis weave w/original insights demonstrating student writer’s understanding of the author’s craft
· Re-engage audience in conclusion w/ a new hook (rhetorical questions, a famous quote, or a startling statement)
· Revise thesis
· Leave audience w/universal message related to topic
