1. Point, Proof, Explanation, Link Paragraphs

2. Topic Sentence Title of work (story, novel, play) Author of work
Overall argument
Three points
Example: In the novel Speak, by Laurie Halse Anderson, Melinda is a complex character because she is lonely, self-conscious, yet creative.

3. Point
Present your points in the same order as they appear in your topic sentence
Include a transition word
Example: First, Melinda is a lonely character.

4. Proof Include a specific example from the work as proof
This can be paraphrased or a direct quotation
ALWAYS include a citation (page number)

5. Context Give CONTEXT for the quotation: Who? What? Where? When? Why?
What is happening at the time?
Which of the above 5Ws are important to include?
15-3-8

6. Example of Proof with Context
When Melinda enters the auditorium on her first day of school, she says, “I stand in the center aisle of the auditorium, a wounded zebra in a National Geographic special, looking for someone, anyone, to sit next to” (p.5).
15-3-8

7. Explanation
HOW or WHY is the quotation important to the point you are making?
How does the quotation prove the point you are making?
What do I need to explain about the quotation before commenting on its significance to my point?

8. Example of Explanation
Melinda describes herself as one who no one wants to socialize with.
15-3-8

9. Link
You must link your explanation to your point and overall argument/idea Perhaps restate a word or words from your original point Example: Because Melinda is looking for friends to sit with, she is a lonely character.
15-3-8

10. Now add two more points, proofs, explanations and links
This is all ONE paragraph (it might seem long)
Remember formal writing rules

11. Concluding Sentence Title and author
Overall argument and three points stated in a fresh, new way
Example: In conclusion, the character Melinda, in Laurie Halse Anderson’s novel Speak, is complicated because she is lonely and self- conscious, yet also creative.