SIDDHARTHA

In-class essay February 18, 2005

Be prepared to write a five paragraph essay in class that answers the following question:

How does the book Siddhartha illustrate the major tenets of Indian thought and belief?

To prepare for this in-class essay, use your text book (chapter 4) and lecture material for additional evidence, but please to not consult any other sources (especially the internet) outside this class for this particular assignment. Make sure that the essay has a thesis in the introduction. Next, support that thesis in three paragraphs using specific evidence (names, dates, people, places, events) from the book as well as the Bentley text book and class notes. Each paragraph should include analysis of the evidence. Write a short conclusion (2-3 sentences) that does more than just sum up the major points, but one that offers a meaningful observation about the book. Since this is an expository essay that provides factual information, rather than the author's opinion, the essay should be written without emotion and should avoid the use of personal pronouns (especially "I").

Essays will be graded according to the following general standards:

90-100%: An "A" is reserved for outstanding work. This is a clearly written, well-organized essay. The introduction includes insightful historical context and the thesis is original and interesting. The body of the essay supports the thesis with well-integrated and well-chosen evidence. The essay demonstrates that the student has a solid command over the course material.

80-89%: This essay adequately addresses the assigned question or topic. The thesis may, perhaps, be weak or uninspired. Evidence is adequate yet lacks a complex analysis. There are some writing/organization problems.

70-79%: This essay has a weak thesis and disregards the most important and obvious examples. It may also suffer from a combination of problems including insufficient depth of analysis, poor grammar and organization, and a conversational or casual tone that is inappropriate in formal writing.

64-69%: This essay lacks a thesis and, as a result, the evidence presented does not support an argument. The essay may also demonstrate that the student has some awareness of the material, but can not incorporate it into an argument that addresses the assigned question or topic. The essay might also demonstrate that the student lacks sufficient writing skills required in an introductory college course.

Below 64%: This essay contains no thesis, little understanding and use of the course material, and insufficient or inappropriate evidence.