Independent Essay
Back to Poetry Assignments
Due dates: See syllabus.
Note: This assignment and the out of class essay are nearly
identical. the only difference is that for the out of class essay, you write
about a poet we have read together and discussed in class.
Assignment
Goal
Other Purposes
Means of achieving this goal:
For instance, my question might be, “Why am I moved by D. H. Lawrence's poetry about childhood?” To answer this question, I would investigate several poets or poems, choosing one, two, or three at most that help answer my question. Then, I would shape an essay around an analysis of these poems and the way they help answer my question. Finally, I would forge a clear introduction and thesis to show exactly what I had discovered and tailor each paragraph to illuminate my findings, wrapping up the whole thing with a conclusion that shows the progression of my inquiry.
This essay may be different
from what you’re used to writing, if you usually start with your thesis
in mind and then use your analysis to prove it. I’d like you to do
the analysis first, whether in your reading or writing, and then define
your thesis as one answer to your question. What I’m getting at is not
the way you write the actual paper, but the way you pursue the inquiry.
Clearly,
my potential question is deeper
than the typical paper. That is intentional. You should start with a
question that interests you and go from there. You may want to use a past
quiz, discussion question, or class issue to get started. Map out a small
adventure for yourself.
Remember, late essays will lose a grade per day of lateness. Late essays turned in after class will lose five points. Late essays may not be revised.
Questions? Please ask or come see me.