Writing an Explanatory Essay
Objective: Students will be able to construct an Explanatory Essay that examines complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.
Performance Assessment: Explanatory Essay
Focus: Writing
Common Core Standards Covered: Reading 1, 2, 3, Writing 1, 2, 4, 5 and Language 1, 2, 5, 6
Duration: 2 Weeks
Essential Questions:
1. How do authors use their characters, the theme of their work, tone, and mood to deliver social commentary and reveal their own views on topics germane to their work?
2. What is the purpose of literature?
3. How is the study of Shakespeare relevant to high school students in 2014?
4. Short of "don't kill yourself when things don't go your way," what can a reader learn from Romeo and Juliet?
What knowledge will students apply?
- Plot
- Conflict
- Inciting Incident
- Characterization (direct and indirect)
- Tone
- Mood
- Figurative Language
- Theme
What skills will students demonstrate?
- Cite textual evidence to support analysis
- Determine the theme of the text
- Analyze how complex characters interact with other characters and advance the plot and develop the theme
- Introduce precise claims
- Introduce the topic via a well organized introduction with a thesis statement
Essay Prompt:
William Shakespeare's famous lovers tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, serves notice to young lovers across the globe; however, Shakespeare's stern warning isn't the only topic worthy of explanation. Choose a theme, character, topic, or other literary oddity that bears elucidation and explain its role and impact in the play. Be sure to make precise claims, and cite textual evidence to support your analysis.
