New Jersey Ask Testing Writing About Quotes

What is a quote/aphorism?  a passage quoted from a book, story, and/or poem  Words of wisdom  Has important meaning  Something to ponder

How to set up the response The Introduction  The introduction should contain all the basic information in one paragraph.  Sentence 1:Hook/this sentence should give the title and author  Sentence 2, 3, and sometimes 4: Should give a brief summary of what is intended by the words of wisdom (nutshell)  Sentence 5: Is your thesis statement. You agree, disagree, identify, or evaluate

Body Paragraph 1  Should include general idea of the quote/aphorism  Explain what it means/message  What was the author trying to convey with his/her quote/aphorism?

Body 2  Relate the quote to your own life  Give a personal response  Real life experience  Relate to something else…another story/novel etc.

Conclusion  Generally summarize all your ideas

General Tips to Remember  Vary sentence structure  Use effective word choice  Make use of figurative language  Make use of all 5 senses  Add a question

Expository Situation  You may be asked to write from a given situation.  You will need at least 4 if not 5 paragraphs.  Your intro should start with a hook and work to the thesis statement.  Each body paragraph should explain your ideas.