Writing Workshop Part 2

Speaking about author “Veronica Roth wants the reader to think about the future.” You cannot say that. Why? Better: “It seems as if Veronica Roth wants the reader to think about the future.”

Another Shakespeare wanted young people to learn a lesson from the star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. Why is this not correct for use in a formal paper? Better: Perhaps Shakespeare wanted young people to learn a lesson from the star crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet.

“Softening Words” It seems as if….. Perhaps…… Conceivably, the author wants …….. It is possible that the intention of the writer is……. Maybe Veronica Roth’s intent is to ……

Book Review This is an excellent book that has a lesson for everyone to learn about being an individual. An exciting story about a brave girl, this book is amazing. I did not like this book; it deals too much with politics.

Absolutes Avoid these words: Always Never Everyone No one Everything

Repetition Abnegation is about selflessness. The people of Abnegation put others first. The purpose of Abnegation is to serve. Being in Abnegation means putting one’s own needs last. All of these statements make the same point, using different words.

Real World Connections Unless the topic specifically TELLS you to relate the events of a piece of literature to the “real world,” DO NOT DO IT! “What if the United States did not let citizens choose their own careers?”

Textual Support Remember that you always want the STRONGEST textual support available. Specific is always better.

Example

Connections Every paragraph should make a point that connects back to the thesis and topic of your paper. Read over each paragraph and ask yourself, “Why is this paragraph important?”

Reminders Word count does not reflect the quality of the content. Avoid plot summary. Specific, specific, specific. Relate everything to topic/thesis. PROOFREAD!!!

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