Picking Evidence

Thesis Example: “Work 1” by ____ and “Work 2” by _____ demonstrate how people can develop their identity when they find true love through the characters’ life struggles.

Topic Statement Example: It is essential that people know their true character, because identity is a powerful force to leave undiscovered.

Topic Statement Example: It is essential that people know their true character, because identity is a powerful force to leave undiscovered. Characterization– Gregor thought, “What if I slept a bit longer and forgot all this foolishness?” OR Mrs. Samsa tells the Deputy Director, “The boy has nothing in his head but the company. I almost worry that he never goes out at night.” A+

Topic Statement Example: It is essential that people know their true character, because identity is a powerful force to leave undiscovered. Conflict– “If it weren’t for my parents, I would have given my notice long ago.: I would have confronted the director and given him a piece of my mind.” OR “His conviction that he had to disappear was even more definite than his sister’s.” A+

Topic Statement Example: Love can give people the strength and freedom to explore their true hopes and dreams.

***Which 3 would be A+ evidence? Which would be B- evidence?*** 1. “He drifted off into sleep and Janie looked down on him and felt a self-crushing love. So her soul crawled out from its hiding place” (128). 2. “Yes, she would love Logan after they were married. She could see no way for it to come about, but Nanny and the old folks had said it, so it must be so” (21). 3. “So the very next morning Janie got ready to pick beans along with Tea Cake. There was a suppressed murmur when she picked up a basket and went to work” (133). 4. “All next day in the house and store she thought resisting thoughts about Tea Cake… She couldn’t make him look just like any other man to her. He looked like the love thoughts of women. He could be a bee to a blossom – a pear tree blossom in the spring” (106). 5. “Janie was halfway down the palm-lined walk before she had a thought for her safety… then in a moment it was gone. Tea Cake wasn’t strange. Seemed as if she had known him all her life” (99). A+ B-

My evidence works for both themes?!?! Use the evidence where it is – Best suited (1 st choice) Analysis is easiest when the evidence naturally leads to your point/theme – Most needed (2 nd choice) You want the strongest evidence possible to support your point. If things are looking weak, put the strength where you need it.