blitz

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step 1: Understand the Assignment Requirements

• You need to answer four out of five midterm questions.
• Each response should be 8-10 sentences long and include textual evidence to support your point.
• Your responses will be graded based on grammar (25%), content (25%), and use of textual evidence (50%).
• Upload your answers as a Word document (.docx)—do not type them directly in the submission box.

---

Step 2: Choose Your Questions Wisely

• Read through all five questions and pick the four you feel most confident about or have the strongest textual support for.
• If aiming for extra credit, you can also answer one of the extra credit questions in addition to your four main responses.

---

Step 3: Structure Each Answer Effectively

Each response should follow this structure:

1. Introduction (1-2 sentences)

• Introduce the main idea of your response by rephrasing the question.
• Provide a brief thesis or argument.

Example:
In Mark Twain’s short story, Jim Smiley is portrayed as a gambler who trains his animals to win bets. While some may see this as cheating, it can also be argued that he is simply using strategy to improve his chances of winning.

2. Explanation & Analysis (4-6 sentences)

• Explain your reasoning clearly and concisely.
• Use textual evidence (quotes or paraphrases) to support your point.
• Analyze the evidence by explaining how it connects to your argument.

Example:
Twain describes how Smiley carefully trains his animals, ensuring they can outperform others. The text states, “he always came out winner because he knew his animals so well” (Twain, p. XX). This suggests that Smiley’s success is due to preparation rather than deceit.

3. Conclusion (1-2 sentences)

• Summarize your response briefly.
• Restate your main point in a new way.

Example:
While Smiley’s actions may seem deceptive, they demonstrate cleverness rather than dishonesty. His strategy highlights his intelligence in gambling rather than unethical behavior.

---

Step 4: Use Proper Formatting

• Double-space your responses.
• Use Times New Roman, 12-pt font.
• Cite any direct quotes using proper formatting (e.g., MLA, APA, or your course’s required citation style).
• Proofread for grammar and clarity.

---

Step 5: Save and Submit Your Work

• Save your document as “ENGL2130_Midterm_YourName.docx”.
• Upload it to the Week 5 folder before the deadline (Sunday, June 16, midnight).
• Ensure it is properly attached—do not type answers into the submission box.