This document provides instructions for writing a controlling idea essay comparing how two literary works deal with a character struggling to define their identity. Students are asked to choose two works, develop a thesis statement, and for each work identify the title, author, characters, and how the characters struggle with their identity through specific literary elements rather than plot summary. Students should plan their response using a Venn diagram to organize their thesis statement and evidence from the two texts. Examples of potential controlling ideas for comparison are also provided.

1. Controlling Idea Essay Practice

2. Definition
• a controlling idea is a theme that appears in two
or more texts.
For example, if given the topic of fear, you might
note that both Night and Lord of the Flies
support the idea that fear influences people to
act out of character.

3. Graphic Organizer = Venn Diagram

4. Your Task
Directions: Write a well-developed and well-organized essay on the
following:
Many authors deal with a character’s struggle to define who they are. From
among the books, plays, and short stories you have read, choose two works
in which there is a character who is struggling to determine their
true identity. Develop a thesis statement about the characters’
struggle as described in the two works you have chosen. Then, for each
work:
▫ Identify the title and author of the two works
▫ Identify the characters
▫ Using specific references, describe how they are struggling to determine their
identity
▫ Avoid plot summary: Instead, use specific references to appropriate literary
elements (for example: theme, setting, conflict, characterization) to develop your
analysis
Must have an introduction, body paragraph (s) and conclusion.

5. Plan Out Your Response
• CREATE A VENN DIAGRAM THAT
▫ IDENTIFIES THE TEXTS YOU PLAN TO
USE
▫ INCLUDES THE THESIS STATEMENT YOU
▫ CITES THE EVIDENCE YOU’LL USE TO
BACK UP YOUR THESIS STATEMENT

6. Wash, Rinse, Repeat
• Create Venn Diagrams for the topics below:
▫ Mistreatment of fellow humans
▫ Darkness
▫ Importance of relationships
▫ Doing what’s right
▫ Conflict