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The Odyssey Essay Exam Review

Terms in this set (10)

... Show clear understanding of the persuasive purpose of the task by taking a position on the issue in the prompt, bringing readers into your essay discussion through introduction paragraph, ending with a thesis statement.

... Introduce a topic; organize complex ideas, concepts, and information to make important connections and distinctions (through all four paragraphs, organized as assigned).

... Draw evidence from literary (The Odyssey, Part 1 and Part 2) and informational texts (Setting/Characterization handout or Quizlet Storytelling handout) to support analysis, directly quoting sources.

... Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking (through overall ELA mechanics) ...

Exam Essay Structure

These elements should be in your 50-minute analysis essay:

1. INTRODUCTION PARAGRAPH (2-4 sentences, using the "definition" hook introduction strategy, identifying author and story title, ending with a clear thesis statement that answers the prompt).
2. BODY PARAGRAPH, PART 1: 4-8 sentences with a topic sentence, at least two quotes from Odyssey Part 1 (all parenthetically cited by page # in textbook), backed by analysis, each supporting the pronged reason shared in your thesis statement, logically ordered).
3. BODY PARAGRAPH, PART 2: 4-8 sentences with a topic sentence, at least two quotes from Odyssey Part 2 (all parenthetically cited by page # in textbook), backed by analysis, each supporting the pronged reason shared in your thesis statement, logically ordered).
4. CONCLUDING PARAGRAPH: re-emphasize your thesis, finish the essay with a strong closing sentence and without opening up a new essay topic, in 2-3 sentences.

"Hook" strategy: Definition

Hooks reader by thoughtfully (re)defining key word/concepts in the prompt; you'll use the definitions from the prompt (e.g. "classic hero" or "mentor") and tie them to your analysis of The Odyssey.

Introductory Paragraph Expectations

Definition Hook Strategy: Your introductory paragraph, 3-4 sentences only, should:
1. "Hook" the audience by incorporating a definition(s) from the Quizlet "Storytelling..." handout.
2. Identify the author, story title, and connecting that definition(s) to the character and/or theme you're analyzing.
3. End your intro paragraph with your thesis, a declarative sentence (not a question), that:
* uses the key terms and action words from your assigned prompt and
* takes a clear position on the prompt.

PROMPT: Using evidence from Part 1 and Part 2, how is Odysseus both a "classic hero" and a "mentor?"

In your essay, take a position on this question. Use quoted evidence from the text to support your position--from Book 1 and Book 2--demonstrating comprehension of the entire story.

PROMPT: Given the definition of a "theme," what's one theme readers can gain from The Odyssey?

In your essay, take a position on this question. Use quoted evidence from the text to support your position--from Book 1 and Book 2--demonstrating comprehension of the entire story.

What's the theme?

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