Junior Studies Second Semester Final Exam Essay

This post is for JUNIORS only.

Purpose

To demonstrate your understanding of your chosen novel and to effectively convince the audience of your viewpoint.

Overview

Your task is to demonstrate your understanding of your chosen novel and to effectively convince the audience of your viewpoint. In response to the following scenario, you will write a well-crafted 5 paragraph persuasive essay.

Scenario

The Junior Curriculum Committee of the Glenbrook South English Department has undertaken a major revision of English 363.  Among the new literary works under consideration is the book you have just read.  Whether or not the Junior Curriculum Committee decides to adopt your book is up to you.

Directions

1.       In a 5 paragraph (minimum ) essay, argue whether or not your book should be adopted. (This will be your thesis statement.)

2.       Prior to the exam period, write a clear and thorough outline of your essay on the back of this sheet - including quotations.  Bring this sheet to the exam; your outline will be turned in with the essay for credit.

3.       Use the content guidelines below to focus your discussion. These questions are jumping off points from which you should expand your discussion. Each of the three types of questions – thematic, social/cultural, structure and writing style – will become one of three main body points.

Content Guidelines

1.       Thematic questions

·         What major topics and ideas does the book address?

·         Do these topics and ideas relate to the rest of the curriculum of the course? How?

·         Does the book add anything new to the themes of the course?

2.       Social/Cultural questions

·         Does the book address a social problem or issue?

·         Does the book discuss a major historical episode or significant current event?

·         Is the book of cultural importance?

·         Does the book force the reader to question a cultural value and ideal?

3.       Structure and Writing Style Questions

·         What storytelling choices does the author make and what is the impact of these choices?

·         What impact does the narrative perspective have on the story?

·         What stylistic choices (diction, syntax, mood, etc.) does the author make and what is their impact?

Assessment Criteria

This essay constitutes your final exam grade.  See rubric for grading criteria. If you wish to do so, YOU MAY GET ASSISTANCE ON YOUR OUTLINE FROM THE TLC.