WRITING ASSIGNMENT #3 – Othello
INSTRUCTIONS FOR NOVEL COMPOSITION/RESEARCH PAPER
Choose one of the topics listed below. Complete the following pre-writing activities: brainstorm, outline, rough draft (Show evidence of proofreading and revision.), and written evaluation. The length of the brainstorm, outline, and rough draft should reflect the expected length of the computer-generated final. The final composition should be 2-3 computer-generated pages (not including the works cited page). Use MLA Style: 1” margins, double-spaced, 12 font (Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri), heading, running header, page numbers, and a works cited page. You must have at least three sources, including the novel. The additional sources should be literary criticisms. Visit the library’s databases and search the Gale Discovery Collection.
PROMPT
You and I know Desdemona was innocent--she was "framed" by Iago. Who is responsible for Desdemona's eath? Iago for framing her? Othello for committing the murder? Desdemona for not putting up more of a fight? Cassio? Which character in the play should be held accountable for her death? Write a researched composition in which you give your opinion as an answer to that question.
PREWRITING
Who would you put on trial for Desdemona's murder? Think about it. When you arrive at an answer, write down that person's name. Under the person's name, jot down several good reasons why you chose that person as the most responsible party. Next to each reason, give several examples from the text supporting your statement.
DRAFTING
Write an introductory paragraph in which you introduce the idea that ___ is responsible for Desdemona's death.
In the body of your composition, write a paragraph for each of the reasons you listed. Use a topic sentence for each paragraph and fill out each paragraph with the examples that support your statements.
Write a paragraph in which you give your conclusions and bring your composition to a close.
PROMPT
When you finish the rough draft of your paper, ask a student who sits near you to read it.
After reading your rough draft, he/she should tell you what he/she liked best about your work, which parts were difficult to understand, and ways in which your work could be improved.
Reread your paper considering your critic's comments, and make the corrections you think are necessary.
PROOFREADING
Do a final proofreading of your paper double-checking your grammar, spelling, organization, and the clarity of your ideas.
