1. Passage Analysis - Guidelines
Mekari - 11 IB

2. Read 3x
In order to understand a passage and its meaning, read a passage carefully.
Suggested:
1x - Blind Read: Read the passage without taking notes. Read for placement and context.
2x - Dissection Read: Read the passage and pull out all literary and rhetorical elements that add to meaning and context.
3x - Analytical Read: Read the passage and determine meaning, purpose and contextual relevance to the text and to culture.

3. Annotate Effectively Suggested
Use multiple pens, pencils, and/or highlighters.
Clearly identify elements of style used by the author to appeal to their audience.
Determine audience
Identify tone
Determine meaning
Identify stylistic devices
Identify rhetorical strategies
Include any relevant commentary that places the passage in context.

4. Outline Outline Thesis: Point 1: a. Point 2: b. Point 3: c.
Seana Mekari
11 IB Period 4A
9/8/15
Outline
Thesis:
Point 1: a.
Point 2: b.
Point 3: c.
Conclusion:
From your annotations, create a thesis statement.
Determine three to four main points - worthy of analysis.
Identify your purpose for each point and know which evidences you will use to support those points.
Conclusion - Don’t ever forget that you will always need to bring your writing to a conclusion.

5. Thesis
In your thesis you are communicating your original idea regarding the passage.
WHAT is the message the author is trying to communicate?
WHY is it relevant? Think language and culture!
HOW is this message communicated?
Basic Formula:
In the passage from (text), the author (author’s name) is emphasizing the importance of (What?) because (Why?). He does this through the effective use of (aspect 1) and (aspect 2).
Note: This is only a BASIC FORMULA. You should develop past this structure as your writing skills develop. -sm

6. Body Paragraphs
Focus on the meaning and features that create the meaning.
In a passage analysis essay, you need to:
State WHAT the excerpt means
a) give a brief summary
b) note the context of the excerpt, and
c) note the features used to create the meaning
d) keep it concise; no flowery, superfluous language is necessary.
Analyze HOW meaning is created in the text
a) features
b) Devices/Techniques - may be multiple paragraphs
WHY is this important?
a) What new understanding is gained through study of these features and this excerpt?
b) How is the excerpt key to or representative of the work as a whole?

7. Conclusion Make sure that you do the following in your conclusion:
a) Tie back to your opening idea
b) Restate your thesis
c) End with a final thought