Tutor profile: Caitlin R.

Create a thesis statement for your essay based upon the following prompt. "Write an essay in which you analyze a theme in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. Use evidence from the text and research to support your answer." Student asks: What all is require in a thesis statement?

My response: A thesis statement in response to a literature prompt should always include the author's name, the title of the text, and your claim. It should guide your research and help your essay remain organized. My example: In _____________________ by __________________, the author uses ______________, ________________, and __________________ in order to develop the theme of ______________________________. In The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, the author uses characters, culture, and setting in order to develop the theme unlikely friendship in wartime.

How does the author of the text use the setting to build tension between the characters? Student asks: What part of the setting should I focus on? There are several places.

My response: Does the setting always refer to place? What else can contribute to the setting? My response to the question: In The Storm by Kate Chopin, the characters' inward desires and stresses are expressed through the tumultuous weather occurring around them. The reader is swept into the storm with characters as their actions get carried away with their circumstances. As the storm passes, clarity of mind returns, and the world rights itself once more.

Based upon the passage read, determine the central idea. How do the individuals in the text contribute to the central idea? Student asks: Can you help me find the central idea?

My response: Sure, let's remember what a central idea is. Can you define it for me? Excellent. Now, what is the major point the author is trying to convey or express? My response to the question: The central idea of the passage is perseverance in hardship. Though her life was a struggle, Madame C.J. Walker refused to quit. Instead of relying on others for income and support, she worked long hours and spent time after work developing her own line of products. Her diligence paid off, and she became a great business woman and philanthropist.