Newburgh CSD Task IV: Universal Truths

Newburgh Enlarged City School District
Regents Comprehensive Examination in English
Student Task IV - "Universal Truths"

Mini Lessons | Parallel Tasks IV

Your Task:

Write a critical essay in which you discuss two works of literature you have read from the particular perspective of the statement that is provided for you in the Critical Lens. In your essay, provide a valid interpretation of the statement, agree or disagree with the statement as you have interpreted it, and support your opinion using specific references to appropriate literary elements from the two works. You may use the next page to plan your response. Write your essay in the essay booklet.

Critical Lens:

"The best literature is about the old universal truths, such as love, honor, pride, compassion and sacrifice."

-William Faulkner

Guidelines:

Be sure to

Provide a valid interpretation of the critical lens that clearly establishes the criteria for analysis
Indicate whether you agree or disagree with the statement as you have interpreted it.
Choose two works you have read that you believe best support your opinion
Use the criteria suggested by the critical lens to analyze the works you have chosen
Avoid plot summary. Instead, use specific references to appropriate literary elements (for example: theme, characterization, setting, point of view) to develop your analysis
Organize your ideas in a unified and coherent manner
Specify the titles and authors of the literature you choose
Follow the conventions of standard written English