How to: Prose Response Essays

Copy the following notes in yellow regarding prose-response essays: First figure out your tasks. What is the prompt asking you to do? Read the 2006 Form B prompt and write down what you believe are the tasks to be completed. You should have 1) Discuss the narrator’s style and 2) Explain how that style reveals his attitudes toward the people he describes. Next, read the passage carefully looking for clues that will give you an answer. In this case, how does he feel about the people he’s describing? How do you know? You may discuss the passage with those around you. 10 Minutes.

Copy the following notes in yellow regarding prose-response essays: Once you know what your task is and you know what your answer is to that task, find the language in the passage that BEST supports your views. “language” and “style” and “literary devices” typically refers to tone, diction, detail, syntax, and imagery. Figurative language, setting, and dialogue are also common. Follow directions. If they tell you which devices to use, you must use them. If they do not tell you which devices, choose no more than three. Go for depth, not quantity. You are not trying to find all of the examples. You are not trying to find the best example of a particular device. You are simply finding the best examples that prove the point your are attempting to make clear to your reader Remember to limit quotations to five words or fewer. You only need the part of a sentence that best backs up your assertions. Again, you have 10 minutes to work with those around you.

Copy the following notes in yellow regarding prose-response essays: A few guidelines to remember about your personal style and structure: NEVER WRITE ON THEME. THEME IS DICUSSED IN POETRY ESSAYS AND OPEN-ENDED ESSAYS ONLY. Avoid repetition Avoid plot summary Only use examples of evidence once Use the author or playwright’s name, when provided, as much as possible. Double check with the prompt to verify names and clues about the piece about which you will be discussing.

2006 Form B examples Right from the start you should have a negative tone emanating from the narrator. The first sentence uses both awkward and idleness which both have less than favorable connotations to them. Additionally, the metaphor in the first sentence is used with a rock being compared to an obstacle. Now move on and as you look, find examples and try to categorize them by the basics of writing: ToneFigurative Language DictionImagery Detail Syntax