1. Markers of Satire
Irony – incongruity between what might be expect and what actually occurs; the intended meaning of words is different from the actual meaning of the words.
Hyperbole – exaggeration used for emphasis
Sarcasm – witty language used to convey insults or scorn
Juxtaposition – two or more things are placed side by side for the purpose of developing comparisons and contrasts.

2. Necessary Moves in Analysis
Satire always has a “false” thesis and a true thesis. The false thesis is the superficial (and fake), probably ridiculous thesis. The true thesis is the author’s comment on what’s wrong with society. You need to analyze how the second thesis is achieved (that’s the purpose).

3. Read the background Information and Determine
How do you know this is satire?
What EXACTLY is the prompt asking you to write about? (that needs to be addressed in each paragraph)

4. Next Step Fill out the reading log
Focus specifically on how the strategies and quotes you find answer the prompt question:
The Onion: How they satirize the way products are marketed to consumers
Wilson: How his satire illustrates the unproductive nature of such discussion