Assignment: Write a 5-paragraph Character Analysis Essay analyzing one main character from one of the assigned stories in MindTap. Your essay must focus on at least three of the following areas:
- Role in the Plot
- Development and Growth
- Motivation and Conflict
- Themes and Symbolism
- Personality Traits and Flaws
Reminder: The title of your essay cannot be the title of the story. Use a title such as A Character Analysis of Emily or A Character Analysis of Sarty Snopes. Essays must be your own original work. Plagiarism or the use of Artificial Intelligence to generate the essay may result in a failing grade.
| Criteria | Exemplary (A) | Proficient (B) | Developing (C) | Needs Improvement (D/F) | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLA Format (15 pts) | Perfect MLA heading, title, header, font, spacing, margins, page numbers, and Works Cited. In-text citations are correct. | Minor MLA errors that do not distract from the paper. | Several MLA formatting errors or missing citation elements. | MLA format is mostly incorrect or missing. | 15 |
| Introduction & Thesis (15 pts) | Engaging introduction with a clear, focused thesis identifying the character and analytical points. | Thesis is present but could be more specific or engaging. | Weak or unclear thesis; introduction lacks focus. | Missing or ineffective introduction and thesis. | 15 |
| Character Analysis & Literary Understanding (30 pts) | Insightfully analyzes at least three required areas with strong understanding of the character and story. Demonstrates critical thinking beyond summary. | Clearly analyzes three areas with adequate explanation and understanding. | Analysis is limited or relies too heavily on plot summary. | Minimal analysis; mostly summary or inaccurate interpretation. | 30 |
| Textual Evidence & Support (20 pts) | Uses well-chosen examples and quotations integrated smoothly with proper MLA citations. Explains how evidence supports analysis. | Appropriate textual evidence with minor integration or citation issues. | Limited or weak evidence; explanations are underdeveloped. | Little or no textual evidence; citations missing or incorrect. | 20 |
| Organization & Paragraph Development (10 pts) | Well-organized five-paragraph essay with smooth transitions and strong topic sentences. | Logical organization with minor transition or paragraph issues. | Organization is inconsistent; paragraphs lack focus. | Disorganized or missing required essay structure. | 10 |
| Grammar, Mechanics & Style (10 pts) | Virtually free of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence errors. Academic tone throughout. | Few errors that do not interfere with readability. | Noticeable errors that occasionally distract the reader. | Frequent errors significantly interfere with understanding. | 10 |
Assignment Requirements Checklist
Students should ensure their essays include all of the following:
- ✓ Five complete paragraphs
- ✓ MLA formatting throughout
- ✓ Original title (not the story title)
- ✓ Analysis of one main character
- ✓ Discussion of at least three required analysis areas
- ✓ Specific examples and quotations from the story
- ✓ MLA in-text citations and Works Cited page
- ✓ Clear thesis statement and conclusion
- ✓ Original writing (no plagiarism or AI-generated content)