Start with a 1-2 sentence intro paragraph in which you state the point about the story you would like to prove. This point should be as specific as possible – “The Story of an Hour” depcis something specific (identify what you want to focus on in the story) about Mrs. Mallard’s situation in order to reveal something specific about human rights (say what the exact point about human rights is as you see it).
Have two or more body paragraphs in which you prove that point. For each thing you say about the chapter, you should provide supporting evidence in the form of words you quote from the text. After you quote, explain the significance of the words – the images they create, the tone, etc., and show how it helps to further your point. Do not just restate the quote or explain the dictionary definition of the words. For example, if you were to quote a phrase like “girls and men,” you might talk about why the writer uses the child-like word girls and the adult word Men for boys. That says quite a bit about the way the writer or character thinks (or would like you to notice). We will discuss quoting and analyzing at our first class meeting, so just do your best on this initial exercise. I’d like to see where you are starting from with this important skill.
End with a conclusion in which you say why your argument is important (why the reader should care).