Analytical Paragraph Structure & Suggestions

1. Topic Sentence – Thesis/Argument                (1 sentence)

                a. Straight to the point

        b. Clearly states an argument

                c. Explains what the paragraph is about

                c. Concise

2. Context – Introduction of Evidence                (1-2 sentences)

                a. Provides a frame of reference for the reader encountering the quotation

                b. Does not need to tell everything (not all of the Who, What, Where, Why, How)

                c. Should remind someone who read the text before what’s going on

                d. Transitions from topic sentence to quotation, and sets up the quotation

3. Supporting Quotation                                (1-2 sentences)

                a. Relates directly to the topic sentence, the argument

b. Is carefully chosen, concise

c. Allows for analysis – big ideas

                d. Cited using MLA style (parenthetical documentation)

4. Analysis – Your ideas and argument                (3-5 or more sentences)

                a. How does this quote illuminate your idea/argument?

                b. Connect the quote to your topic sentence

                c. Do not simply restate the quote

d. Avoid starting the analysis with “This quotes shows that” or “This quote proves that”

5. Transition - (1-2 Sentences)

6. Repeat Steps 2-4

7. Conclusion                  (1 sentence)

                a. The conclusion should relate to the topic sentence, but do not simply restate the topic sentence

                b. Leave the reader thinking about your argument

                c. Create a sense of closure, finality