Response to Literature Part 2

Notes Review: Hook and Thesis Statement

A hook connects the audience to the writer’s idea in the first 1-2 sentences.

1. “Imagine”

2. Dictionary definition

3. Famous Quotation

Write a thesis statement at the end of the introduction paragraph. The thesis is specific and communicates your perspective about the topic.

Check your writing plans.
1. List of actions, appearance and dialogue with page numbers.
2. Analogy illustrations

Answer this question to help you construct a thesis statement: How are these characters mystery characters?

Ms. Avery’s Example

Dr. Armstrong	The Landlady
Appearance “eyeballs ached” (35) He is tired. Action “hands clammy…difficulty holding the scalpel” (91) He is nervous. Dialogue “Murder in hospital..Safe—yes, safe as houses.” (115) He is thinking about getting away with murder!	Appearance “blue eyes, round pink face” (74) She seems harmless. Action “body half turned toward him and he could feel her eyes resting on his face” (78) She studies him like a beast after its prey. Dialogue “No, my dear, only you” (80) She is focused on attacking him.

Ms. Avery’s Thesis Statement: A mystery writer includes details about characters that make us slightly uncomfortable.

Ms. Avery’s Introduction Paragraph:
            Imagine meeting a doctor or a little old lady. Most people will experience friendliness and trust. A mystery writer, however, will change your mind, and you will suspect characters like Dr. Armstrong and the Landlady. A mystery writer includes details about characters that make us slightly uncomfortable.