Expository Essay for “The Gift of the Magi” by O



Expository Essay for “The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry

English I – ECHS

C. Edge

The student will compose a 3 paragraph essay explaining the use of one of three elements in the short story, “The Gift of the Magi.” The essay must have an introduction, a body paragraph, and a conclusion; as well as specific details from the story to support the evaluation.

Elements to choose from:

← Allusion – a reference to another work or literature, or to a person or event from history

← Paradox – a statement that seems to be a contradiction, but in fact is true

← Situational Irony – when there is a contrast between what is expected to happen and what actually does occur.

The introductory paragraph should have a hook sentence; a lead in sentence that introduces the story, the author, and the literary element; and a thesis statement (in that order). This sentence should be at least 3 sentences in length.

The body paragraph should restate the thesis statement and add direct support in the way of evidence and quotes from the selection (quotes should be written in quotation marks). At least two examples must be used for support. This paragraph should be at least 5 sentences in length.

The conclusion paragraph should rephrase the thesis statement in a new way and then lead out to a general statement about the effectiveness of the literary element in the selection.

Steps of the Writing Process: (each should be followed)

← Prewriting – Choose your topic and list as many supporting details and quotes as you can.

← Drafting – Write your rough draft of the essay.

← Evaluating – Have someone else read your essay aloud to you to see if it sounds effective. Do you notice any areas where you may need to work on improving your essay?

← Revising/Editing – Go ahead and fix those areas of weakness now. Look for spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes as well.

← Publishing – Type (size 12, Times New Roman, double-spaced, black ink only, text-wrapping!!!) or write your final copy neatly in pen (skip lines, blue or black ink only, print). Turn it in to your teacher on time.

Name: _______________________

Date: _____________

Period: ___________

Rubric

___ Writing Process: (10 points)

__ Prewriting included (5 points)

__ Rough Draft included and turned in on time (5 points)

___ Format: (25 points)

__ typed (__ 12, __TNR, __ double-spaced) (5 points)

__ written (__skipped lines, __ printed, __ blue or black ink) (5 points)

__ properly indented (5 points)

__ paragraphs are appropriate lengths (5 points)

__ cover page (5 points)

__ rubric included (5 points)

___ Structure: (65 points)

__ Introductory paragraph (__ hook, __lead-in, __thesis statement) (20 points)

__ Body Paragraph (__ adequate and appropriate supporting details) (30 points)

__ Conclusion paragraph (__thesis restatement, __ concluding statement) (15 points)

___ Mechanics

__ .5 points for each spelling, grammar, or punctuation error.

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