Name:_________________________________

Date:__________________________________

English 9

Essay #4 – Literary Analysis of The Miracle Worker.

Write an expository essay based on one of the following ideas. You are not simply summarizing the story; rather, you are making a statement ABOUT the story, and then finding facts to prove the statement.

Pick one of the following theses to discuss in this essay:

1. Communication is vital to any relationship.

2. Language is the doorway to the mind.

3. Spoiling a person is harmful to that person.

4. Teaching people how to do things themselves is far better than doing for them.

5. People should not close their hearts to love.

6. Never give up hope.

7. The Miracle Worker is filled with conflict.

Or use the following ideas in a discussion of the story:

1. What might be a motto that expresses Annie’s philosophy of life?

2. Choose a quote from the play that you find meaningful. Explain its importance in the play and to yourself.

_____ Ideas and Development

20

___ minimum of 300 words.

___ abundant details describing the event being shared.

___ good judgment in choice of details.

___ includes thoughts and/or reflections about the impact the event had or has on you.

_____ Organization

20

___ appropriate title

___ introduction: use engaging lead, explain the lead, short summary of the story, include the thesis (underline the thesis).

___ paragraphing helped the reader.

___ state each point you are making.

___ explain in detail the point.

___ elaborate about the point with a specific example. Use quotes from the book to prove the point you are making.

___ commentary on each point made.

___ effective transitions both within and between paragraphs.

___ clear conclusion that restates the thesis and main points.

___ make a text-to-text, text-to-self, or text-to-world comparison

___ hook back to the lead.

_____ Sentence Fluency, Voice, and Word Choice

5

___ sentences flow and read smoothly.

___ variety in sentence length, structure, and first words.

___2A: include a three-word sentence. (highlight this)

___2B: include a twenty-word sentence. (highlight this)

___ vivid word choice that helps show the reader ideas. (Underline at least five vivid words or phrases)

_____ Conventions

5

___ typed essay, double-spaced, one inch margins, 12pt standard font.

___ proper spelling, punctuation, and usage.

___ complete, proper sentences. (No fragments, run-ons, and comma splices.)

_____ Total

50