1. Statement Proof Commentary
How to Write an essay
Statement Proof Commentary

2. Thesis Statement
This comes at the beginning of your essay. A thesis statement contains the topic you are writing about and your opinion (reasons why). A thesis statement should also name the author and text.
Example: Romeo in Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet is a complex character because he changes significantly throughout the plot, which contributes to the overarching theme that love is forceful.
DO NOW: Take the character and theme from your bellwork and write a thesis statement.

3. Prompt There are many ways a character can show complexity
Prompt There are many ways a character can show complexity. Choose one character- Romeo, Juliet or the Friar, who shows multiple traits of complexity and discuss how one of the complex traits he or she has helps the character advance the plot or develop a theme/lesson

4. Statements
In an essay, your statements connect to your thesis. For example, the first reason you discuss in your thesis, will be the first thing you discuss in your essay.
DO NOW: Romeo changes significantly in the story: one minute he is optimistic and in love, and the next minute he is in a murderous rage over the death of Mercutio.

5. Proof
Proof is a quote from the text! This is what you should have highlighted in pink and proves how Romeo has changed throughout the play.
Tip: Citing a play is different. Remember (Act.Scene.Line) in Roman Numerals. You may have to look this up on Google! Example:
In Romeo and Juliet, our main character, Romeo, exclaims, “__________” (II.II.ii-iv).
Make sure your proof connects to your statement! Proof should show why the statement is true.

6. Commentary
Commentary is your own analysis of the quote and statement. Commentary is your ideas put into an articulate and academic way. This is where you connect the statement and the proof. How do they connect?
YOU ARE NOT SUMMARIZING THE QUOTE!

7. Things to remember
INTRODUCE YOUR QUOTES!!!!!!!!! Use your diction list for “said” words.
No Contractions! “They’re, we’re, couldn’t, shouldn’t- any word with an apostrophe (unless you’re showing possession.)
DO NOT USE “I”- this is NOT a personal narrative
This is an extended paragraph essay. Please do not write much more than I am asking you to. Your thoughts should be concise, succinct and to-the-point.
Please proof read your writing before submitting it!! We will be revising tomorrow

8. Essay Directions
Come up with a thesis statement about your character. Which complex character trait do they show and how does that develop a theme?
Use the packet of texts to find at least three examples to prove your thesis.
Begin crafting your rough draft based on what I have taught you about SPC(statement, proof, commentary), and the model we looked at.