The document provides instructions for writing a 5-paragraph essay analyzing who is at fault for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet in Shakespeare's play. It instructs the writer to include an introductory paragraph with background on the play and a thesis statement naming the person at fault and three reasons. Each body paragraph should discuss one reason, using a quotation from the play, commentary explaining how it supports the thesis, and creative transitions between paragraphs. The conclusion restates the thesis and summarizes the three reasons before drawing a broader conclusion.

1. 5-Paragraph Essay Who is at FAULT for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet?

2. Introductory Paragraph Did you start with a “motivator”? Your first sentence should be general and about: quotation question Interesting fact Your next three sentences should be background info on Shakespeare & Romeo and Juliet . Your last sentence(s) contains the THESIS statement: TAG Focus statement Blueprint

3. Thesis Statement Your thesis statement is THE STRONGEST STATEMENT of the ENTIRE ESSAY. It should list: The title in italics The author’s full name The genre: play or drama or tragedy The focus (Your F-WORD and how he/she/it was responsible for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet) The three reasons

4. Body Paragraphs: Transitions Include a creative transition. Avoid WORDS like First, Next, In addition Work on using phrases/clauses that connect the paragraphs: In addition to Friar’s irresponsibility… Not only did the feud cause Romeo to kill Tybalt, the feud also…

5. Body Paragraphs: Idea Sentences Idea Sentences Keep them general – don’t include specific information: Romeo and Juliet both show foolishness when they decide to quickly and secretly marry.

6. Body Paragraphs: Quotations Introduce the quotations by giving the context in which it was stated. Don’t FLOAT THE QUOTE: tell what was going on in the play when the quotation was stated. Quote EXACTLY . You cannot change even one word or capital letter. You can use ellipses to take out words. You can use brackets to change/add words. Cite like this: “ words words words” (II.iii.23-24). “ words words words?” (III.i.19,21).

7. Body Paragraphs: Commentary This should be 1-2 sentences and is the most important part of your body paragraph. It should explain WHY the your F-WORD is responsible – this is your chance to PROVE your thesis.

8. Conclusion Paragraph The THESIS STATEMENT is restated creatively in the first sentence or two. Then – add three summary sentences in which you restate/review EACH reason. THEN, draw a conclusion: Tell how your essay/theme/opinion pertains to life. THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX, and say something smart!