Literary Analysis: Revising Your Introduction

Purpose

The goal of your introductory paragraph should be to:

• introduce the reader to the concept of Transcendentalism

• provide relevant quotations from Emerson to clarify major beliefs of a Transcendentalist

Plagiarism

In writing a Literary Analysis essay make sure you avoid plagiarism!  One good way to ensure that you are not accused of plagiarism is to only use words that you understand yourself and can explain in your own words if asked.  Please explore this website to make yourself aware of the various kinds of plagiarism.  You will be held accountable to these standards.  

Revision

Once you have completed the first draft of your introduction, you must revise for clarity.  The revision process is what can turn decent writing into GREAT writing.  Complete the following steps to revise:

1. Find a writing partner that you can trust to put effort into helping you revise your work.
2. Ask your partner to read your introduction aloud, sentence by sentence.
3. Pause at the end of each sentence to correct errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
4. When your partner is finished reading the entire paragraph, ask them to respond to the following questions:

• Did I clearly explain what Transcendentalism is? 

• Did I cite enough relevant evidence from Emerson to clarify the major beliefs of a Transcendentalist? 

• Did I use formal language? 

• What could I do to make my writing stronger? 

Exit Slip

When you are completely sure that your work is at its best and you have done the necessary revisions, email your work to Harriciones to receive a grade.  You will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• How well you explained the concept of Transcendentalism

• Your selection and explanation of relevant evidence from Emerson

• Your use of formal language and writing in the 3rd person

 Don't make Walt upset.  He can get a little ridiculous: