For your final paper you will be required to write an essay at least

4 pages long using the fiction novel you’ve completed to craft a persuasive argument.

You will analyze the Joe Hill book,

Heart-Shaped Box

and argue what you believe the book’s central

theme is. What lesson or message does the book teach readers? How do the

elements of plot, character, setting, dialogue, point of view help support the theme?

Your essay needs to be clear and unified under your thesis.

Make sure to include

specific evidence from the book, to show how and why your evidence supports

your thesis.

Since this is a shorter paper, focus on the most convincing evidence. Your essay

should demonstrate your understanding of the text, and your ability to identify the theme using

support chosen from either characterization, setting, dialogue, or plot.

Use your own original ideas about the book in conjunction with evidence from the text to

support your thesis. Make sure to follow proper MLA citation rules for all quotes and

paraphrases you use.

Grading Criteria

Successful papers will have:

1. A developed introductory paragraph, with a clear thesis.

Explain what your topic is,

and what you will try and prove about your topic. Why is it important to

accept your argument?

What elements of fiction will you use for support? (10 points)

2. Well-supported, unified body paragraphs with specific examples that reinforce your

thesis. (125 points)

3. Your essay includes at least 3 quotes or paraphrases. Demonstrates an understanding of

key evidence you’ve selected. Use proper MLA citation. (5 points)

4. A conclusion that summarizes your main point, and offers a final thought about the value

of your argument. (5 points)

5. Your paper will also be thoroughly edited for sentence-level errors. (5 points)

Total points: 150

Follow all criteria, double check spelling grammar and PLAGIARISM.