Download “The Sniper” Writing Topics

Writing Skills #2
Topic Sentence and Details
A Topic Sentence of a paragraph is the main idea or focus of the paragraph. It is a statement and
not a question, and it consists of clear, specific wording. A big no-no is DO NOT STATE “IN
THIS ESSAY, I AM GOING TO EXPLAIN, I WILL TALK ABOUT THE FOLLOWING,
ETC.”
For example, War is caused by a simple disagreement that leads to massive destruction
that may never be forgotten or forgiven.
Supporting Details consist of examples and explanation to thoroughly develop the topic sentence.
For example, based on the topic sentence listed above, one could tie the statement to
“The Sniper” and provide explanation on the Irish Civil War and how it split the military
group as well as family and friends. An example sentence could focus on the Republican
sniper finding out he killed his brother. The end of the paragraph could be explanation
sentences of how his other family members would react as well as what his emotional
state and future would be like.
The Closing Statement of the paragraph would creatively wrap-up the main point. This statement
should not be identical to the main point; however, it should definitely tie in or connect to the
main point.
You could close with a rhetorical question (a question that has an implied answer or
doesn’t require an answer because it is automatically known—If you do not turn in this
assignment, do you think you will receive a passing grade?)
You could end with an impacting statement that gets the reader thinking.
Your assignment is to choose ONE of the following and use the techniques listed above to
craft a well-developed paragraph with a topic sentence, supporting details, and a closing
statement. 1-2 paragraphs of 5-7 sentences. This is to be typed following proper MLA style.
This is due Monday, September 16, 2013
Choice 1: Write a persuasive response on whether war truly is necessary. Choose one side, either
yes or no, and provide historical examples and persuasive explanation. Do not be on the fence.
Choice 2: Write a response on what effects, permanent or temporary, being involved in a war has
on a soldier and how war affects him/her in his/her home life and future. Still write this in 3rd
person for a stronger impact.
Choice 3: If the soldier in “The Sniper” went home and confessed the truth to his mother, what do
you think would be the outcome? Be very explanatory and in 3rd person.
Choice 4: Being a soldier and doing whatever it takes for your country or your side is a choice;
you choose this life. Could you choose this life, even if it means killing people and possibly
hurting those close to you? Explain. This is the only choice that may be in 1st person.
2nd Writing
Student Name: _______________________________
I. Spelling/Punctuation: ____
4 = 0-2 errors;
3-2 = 3-4 errors
1 = 5 errors
0 = More than 5 errors
II. MLA: ___
5 = 0-1 error;
4-3 = 2-3 errors
2-1 = 4-5 errors
0 = More than 5 errors
III. Topic Sentence
3 = states main idea precisely and clearly 2/1 = main idea decently stated
1st/2nd person
0 = no main idea or uses poor wording or
IV. Details
6 = well developed examples and explanation with varied vocabulary and strong sentence structure
5-4 = provides details with decent vocabulary and sentence fluency
3-2 = some details are included but weak or
repetitive vocab and structure
1 = barely developed with weak vocabulary and sentence structure
0 = no details or too many fragmented or broken
flow
V. Closing Statement/ Wrap-Up/ Clincher
2 = Effective wrap-up; creative; insightful
Total Out of 20 Points: ___
Percentage: ___
1 = Closes paragraph
0 = No closing
Letter Grade: ___