EES88 NX Performance Task #1: Literary Analysis Essay

Your Task: Closely read the pair of texts provided and write a well-developed, text-based response of at
least three pages (700-900 words). In your response, first identify the theme, or central idea, related to
Voices of Protest that links the two texts. Analyze how each author uses a variety of writing strategies to
develop that theme, or central idea. Discuss a minimum of two literary elements, literary techniques,
and/or rhetorical devices for each text, and be sure to address how the structure of each piece contributes
to its meaning. Use strong and thorough evidence from the text to support your analysis, citing page
numbers. Conclude by comparing the writers treatment of these themes and their choices in craft and
structure to convey them to their audience.
Texts from the HMHs Collections for the 12th grade, Collection 6 – Voices of Protest
A Modest Proposal by Jonathan Swift (satirical essay)
Imagine the Angels of Bread by Martin Espada (poem)
Note: This e-textbook for the 12th grade is available on-line through TeachHub.
Guidelines: Be sure to:
Identify the theme that links the two pieces and articulate the central idea developed in each text.
Analyze how each author uses various writing strategies to develop this central idea. When
writing about each text, incorporate analysis on at least two literary elements, literary techniques,
and/or rhetorical devices. Examples include: characterization, conflict, denotation/connotation,
metaphor, simile, irony, language use, point-of-view, setting, structure, symbolism, theme, tone,
etc. Do not simply summarize the text!
Use strong and thorough evidence from the text to support your analysis, citing page numbers.
Organize your ideas in a cohesive and coherent manner.
Maintain a formal style of academic writing.
Follow the conventions of standard written English.
Resources:
There are glossaries of literary terms and techniques here and here.
Ms. Peer Editors videos break down how to write a literary analysis. She has tutorials on writing
a literary analysis thesis, introductions, conclusions and on integrating quotes in your analysis.
You can read strong, short examples of literary analyses from the ELA Regents if you look at Part
3 essays that received a score of four in the Rating Guides here.
Standards Addressed:
11-12R1: Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly/implicitly and make logical inferences,
including determining where the text is ambiguous; develop questions for deeper understanding and for further exploration. (RI&RL)
11-12R2: Determine two or more themes or central ideas in a text and analyze their development, including how they emerge and are shaped and
refined by specific details; objectively and accurately summarize a complex text. (RI&RL)
11-12R3: In literary texts, analyze the impact of authors choices. (RL)
11-12R4: Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings. Analyze the
impact of specific word choices on meaning, tone, and mood, including words with multiple meanings. Analyze how an author uses and refines
the meaning of technical or key term(s) over the course of a text. (RI&RL)
11-12R5: In literary texts, analyze how varied aspects of structure create meaning and affect the reader. (RL)
11-12R6: Analyze how authors employ point of view, perspective, and purpose, to shape explicit and implicit messages (e.g., persuasiveness,
aesthetic quality, satire, sarcasm, irony, or understatement). (RI&RL)