Only for quality and it is major part of grade!

For this essay, submit an MLA-formatted Word document.

 *Do not consult any source other than the story for this assignment. * 

-In 500-600 words, explain how symbolism is used in one of the stories you read in this lesson. 

-Your essay should be a cohesive response (purposeful paragraphs, one unifying thesis, not list-like) to the use of symbolism to create meaning. Questions to consider include the following:

• What symbol(s) did you notice in this story?
• What "big ideas" do the symbols represent?
• How do the symbols relate to the story's meaning or overall theme?
• Can these symbols be interpreted in more than one way?

Important keys:

• Thesis and introduction
• Topic sentences leading body paragraphs
• Use of evidence from the story to support each point
• Clarity of writing; evidence of proofreading
• Internal citations
• Integration of quotes into the author's own sentences
• Focus on supporting its thesis throughout
• Absence of first or second person (no "I" "me" or "you")
• Use of objective language (no overly opinionated or judgmental language)
• Academic tone (no conversational phrasing, slang, or cliche)
• 
  

Stories: 

 "Cathedral" by Raymond Carver 

 "A Wall of Fire Rising" by Edwidge Danticat  

-Your first paragraph should include (a) the name of the story and author, (b) a one or two sentence summary of the story and (c) your thesis statement or main point about the symbols used in the story. 

-Your essay should be written in academic style (no first or second person, academic language, use of MLA formatting) and include examples or quotes from the story. 

-There are several sample student essays in your textbook if you would like to see additional examples of good ways to develop a thesis statement, use quotations, and cite sources.