1. Session 3: Generating a Claim
Literary Essay
Session 3: Generating a Claim

2. Session 3: Generating a Claim
Teaching Points
In the last session, we examined the structure of a thesis paragraph.
In this session, we will read a new story and apply our understanding of the structure of the thesis paragraph to write our own.
Literary essayists use the deeper meaning to identify the thesis. They use a thinking frame to make a claim

3. Session 3: Generating a Claim
What is a “Claim”
A claim is a single sentence statement of the position you intend to argue and prove throughout your writing.
It must be debatable. In other words, the claim must be something that people could reasonably have differing opinions on.
Do not write a claim that is generally agreed upon or accepted as fact because then there is no reason to try to persuade people.

4. Session 3: Generating a Claim
Good Claim or Naw’?
Pollution is bad for the environment
The government should increase the amount of money it spends to reduce pollution.
Water is composed of hydrogen and oxygen.
Drug use is detrimental to society.
Illegal drug use increases gang violence.

5. Session 3: Generating a Claim
Independent Practice 1
Silently read “Forgetting Things” by Keith Hood.
Fill out the handout “Reading on Multiple Levels” in response to “Forgetting Things”
Write a claim on the story.

6. Session 3: Generating a Claim
Share 1
Share your responses from the handout “Reading on Multiple Levels” with a partner.
Discuss your answers, and share the different claims you made.

7. Session 3: Generating a Claim
Independent Practice 2
Write your own Thesis Paragraph on “Forgetting Things”
Be sure to include all 4 steps from the handout “Building a Thesis Paragraph” stating a claim you can prove in the essay that will follow.

8. Session 3: Generating a Claim
Share 2
Share your thesis paragraph with a partner.
The partner should be able to identify the four steps:
Text Reference-author and title
Plot Summary-a brief review of the most significant events in the story
Claim-deeper meaning of the story
Evidence-how they will support the claim.

9. Session 3: Generating a Claim
Exit Slip Write your claim on a sticky-note after you have written it in your Thesis Paragraph.

10. Session 3: Generating a Claim
You are to Complete/Submit
Reading on Multiple Levels handout about “Forgetting Things”
Thesis Paragraph about “Forgetting Things”
Claim on Sticky-Note (Exit Slip)