Author Study

REQUIRED:

• Research biographical information
• Read one piece of literature written by the author
• Write a five-paragraph essay on your research and reading

DIRECTIONS:

Part I - Research biographical information on your author using at least two references. You may use the author's web site as one, but use at least one written biographical reference. Magazine articles are great! When researching, compile a list of important facts about your author that affect his/her writing perspective. Get Mrs. Robison's help in the library to find books. Since these books will have to be borrowed from other libraries, do this early! Click here for high quality magazine articles. If you choose to use an encyclopedia resource, be sure it is a high quality one such as American National Biography (includes only dead Americans) OR Encyclopedia Britannica Online. EB Online can also provide links to journal articles and websites about your author.

Look for information on:

• Childhood
• Ethnicity or Culture
• Geographic Location
• Social Morals
• Education
• Travel Experience
• Work Experience
• Marriage/Children
• Hobbies or Passions
• Other Important Experiences

Part II - Read one short story, group of poems, or an excerpt from a novel by the author. DO NOT READ THE PIECE WE WILL BE STUDYING IN CLASS. Those pieces appear on the approved author list. Some non-fiction selections may also be acceptable, but they must be written BY the author (not about him/her).

When reading your chosen piece, look for characteristics seen from the perspective of the author and make notations. Note at least three examples that you will cite in your essay. Please use your active reading techniques to help guide you as you complete the task.

Part III - Write your essay. The essay should contain five paragraphs that include an introduction with thesis statement, a three-paragraph body, and a conclusion.

Be sure your essay includes:

• Biographical Information on your author
• Information on the featured piece(s) of literature you chose to read (plot synopsis, date of publication, etc.)
• CONNECTIONS! How the author's perspective is seen in the literature. You may connect to characters, setting, plot, and theme. Be sure to cite specific observations seen by you in the work(s).

ALSO INCLUDE:

• Title Page
• Works Cited page with at least two sources besides the chosen reading(s)