Argumentative Essay: Evaluating Independence

Write an argument of judgment essay evaluating the degree to which Christopher from The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time meets the definition of independence. To what extent can he be characterized as independent, interdependent, or dependent?

Remember to:

• Analyze how a complex character develops over the course of a text.
• Remember to include the STEAL elements in your character analysis.
• Explain to the ways in which the character meets/does not meet the criteria of independence.
• Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support claims about the character.
• Use words, phrases, and clauses to link major sections of a text, create cohesion, and clarify relationships between ideas.

Your paper should include the following:

• At least 3 pieces of evidence from the text.
• Each piece of evidence must have 1 well connected warrant supported by backing.
• Each piece of evidence should be supported by at least 2 properly cited quotes from the text.
• There must be an introduction, conclusion, and body paragraphs.
• Remember the AXES paragraph format!
• Approximately 3-4 pages in length
• MLA Formatting: 12 pt. font; Times New Roman, Arial, or Helvetica. Double spaced. 1 in. margins.
• NO FIRST-PERSON NARRATIVE!

Timeline:

• Due Date: 3/9 (A) & 3/10 (B): Outline (graphic organizer), begin first draft.
• Due Date: 3/17 (A) & 3/20 (B): Finish first draft, self-assessment using the Unit Performance Task Rubric.
• Due Date: 3/23 (A) & 3/24 (B): Peer review, in-class writing conferences.
• Due Friday, 3/31: Final essay (printed and handed in to the Homework bin.

Resources

• Download the  Unit Performance Task: Argumentative Essay requirements
• Download the  Unit Performance Task Rubric