Documentary Analytical Essay from “13th” movie
1. choose a documentary from the posted list (you may NOT watch a movie that is not on this list)
2. watch the film at least one time, possibly a few times, so that you clearly understand the film’s main argument and the research used to support that argument — you should be able to state the film’s main argument in one clear sentence. This film argues that…
2. have a concrete, focused thesis statement that states the argument in the film–NOT YOUR OPINION–but the argument made in the film; again something like This film argues that…
3. write 1,000 word essay, which includes an organized introduction, focused body paragraphs, and a solid conclusion
4. the introduction must have the following elements:
i) a hook
ii) a thesis statement in which you state the film’s argument
iii) a very brief summary of the entire film
iv) a brief summary of your essay
5. each body paragraph must be a complete and well-developed paragraph that examines specific ways the film supports its main argument — you may focus on three key scenes, OR three key pieces of evidence the filmmakers use, OR three key points the film makes to support its larger argument only take one of these approaches
6. the conclusion must include these three elements:
i) restate your thesis
ii) resummarize your essay’s main points
iii) how do you relate to the topic of your essay — this is the only place in your essay when you can refer to yourself and use “I” and where you can state your opinion about the film
7. use correct MLA format for the essay; you must have a Works Cited that includes ONLY the film (use MLA format for a film)
