2. Useful Stuff To Know:  When an author wants to make a point, they write a book.  They make their point by using themes, motifs and symbols to get an idea across.  They get these themes, motifs and symbols across by using authorial techniques.  Authorial techniques are things like characterisation (showing or telling you something about the character by the way they talk or act), style, setting, imagery, narrative techniques and allusions.

3.  When you write an essay it is easier to write the body paragraphs first.  Each paragraph needs a statement to start it off. Statements explain the point the author had (in other words, the focus of your essay question).  You then have to back up this point by explaining about the themes, motifs or symbols that apply to it.  THEN you have to give an example. This example will always be an authorial technique, so say so.

4.  Once you finish your body paragraphs you can turn to your introduction and conclusion.  Your introduction is an inverted triangle.  The top (biggest part) is a general introduction. Name the book, the question, the background of the book (when was it published, etc.).  The middle part is where you tell the reader what your main points are. Link these to the question.  The bottom part (the tiny tip) is where you state your ‘thesis statement’ or stance. What is the point of this essay?

5.  Your conclusion is the opposite of your introduction.  It is a right-way-up triangle.  The tip is your final answer. “No you may not have any ice cream. Why?”  “Because…” and then you name your main points again. They are hammering it into the head of the person who is questioning you.  Lastly, now you have a moment to say a few general things. “Ice cream reflects the attitudes of children in today’s society; they have never had to suffer through any hardships. They have never had to deal with no ice cream.”

6. DO NOT PUT ANY QUOTES INTO YOUR INTRO OR CONCLUSION. They have their own place. A SEXY place. A place where you have space to explain why on earth you are using them in the first place (main body paragraphs, in case you are wondering).

7. Today:  Find quotes for each of the theme examples (ignore the part that says “give two examples”. You already have two examples. Find quotes.  “Say What” sheet. Identify speaker and explain context of quote.  20 Questions quiz. If you get all 20 right I will give you a lollipop tomorrow. (You can take this home for homework).