Unit 3 Writing Prompt 11^th Grade

Due: Wednesday, December 11

Depth and complexity is added to a story and affects the manner in which it unfolds with the use of literary elements/techniques. For example, literary elements/techniques can affect a story by creating complex characters, unique plot development, dynamic theme development, mystery, tension, or even surprise. Authors can be quite creative in their writing styles and employ several uses of literary elements and techniques.  Some of these elements/techniques include internal and external conflict, irony, foreshadow, cause and effect, and personification.

You will be writing a formal argumentative essay answering this question: Which author used the best literary elements creating the most dynamic and exciting story? You must clearly state your argument that the author is highly skilled in using literary techniques/elements.  You must utilize three quotes from the selection. Explain how each quote exemplifies the literary technique/element and analyze what effect each literary technique has on the story. In the last body paragraph, you must discuss another author from the unit who failed to utilize literary elements, and therefore had a less exciting story. You must include a quote from that author’s story to show the weak use of literary elements, explain why the usage of that literary element was weak and what the author could have done to make it better. Conclude the argument by describing to the reader how highly skilled authors use multiple literary elements to create a dynamic story. 

Did you:

• write an argumentative essay that clearly states your argument that the author is highly skilled in using three literary techniques to create a specific effect?
• citing evidence using at least three quotes?
• analyze what effect each literary technique has on the story?
• use MLA style formatting correctly?
• use precise language to maintain formal tone?
• use a formal writing style?
• use transitions to connect ideas?
• Include a counterargument of an author who uses weak literary techniques, using a quote and explaining how it does not provide
• Conclude the argument by describing how highly skilled authors create dynamic stories?
• check for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation?