Writing the Introduction and Conclusion

1. Writing the Introduction and Conclusion

2. Diagram of the Introduction 1st sentence: Topic sentence to establish time frame (e.g. great depression) and the effect this has on the individual. 2nd sentence: MUST include novel and central character and is written exactly like this: In John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men, George Milton takes on the role of Lennie Small’s companion and caretaker… 3rd – 6th sentences clarify the plot, but only in terms of what the body paragraphs discuss 7th sentence is where you write the thesis statement –without using the author’s name and novel title.

3. Topic Sentence (TS) • This sentence establishes the focus of the essay in a broad sense, but should not be one of those generic, all encompassing statements that begin with Throughout history… Try to narrow down the time frame and state the universal truth that the author reveals. This sentence should also explain the historical/social context and its importance in the work. 1-2 sentences.

4. Context (CX) • Tie in the topic sentence(s) above to the literature and set up the context (background, circumstances, situation) of the body paragraphs. Integrate the author’s name and the novel as you write a succinct plot overview that gives the reader enough background knowledge to understand the body paragraphs. The body paragraphs should logically follow the plot just as this area of the Introduction follows the order of the body paragraphs.

5. Thesis Statement • This is an opinion (CM) sentence that CLEARLY states what you are proving about the central character or about the novel itself and how this is revealed. • The pattern should go something like: The symbolism of Hester Prynne’s cottage reveals society’s freedom from the oppression and entrapment of religious tradition. • In this thesis, the writer informs the reader that when Prynne moves into her cottage on the outskirts of town, she proves to everyone that her independence says much about herself as a woman living in the Puritan time, but more importantly it reveals that she is the better person for it. • The body paragraphs will then outline what oppression she faces and how she deals with it so that in the end, the last body paragraph, the reader understands how she is truly free though still living in the oppressed society.

6. The Conclusion • In 1-2 sentences, evaluate who the main character becomes in the end. • Start the sentence with a word like Ultimately, In the end, Because of, In the aftermath, etc. • Now, summarize how this happens but without stating more plot or any new information. Think of this as a recap of the paper, but in only 2-3 sentences

7. The Philosophical Ending • So what’s the point in all this? What insight should your audience/reader take from the characters? • In 1-2 sentences tell your reader what the experiences of the characters reveal in terms of the real world. • Look back at the topic sentences of the Big Introduction as your guide