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Ms. Gerry - Analyzing Holden: Home

Quotes from the book

Browse quotes about Holden Caulfield from The Catcher in the Rye.

Use this Google Doc to copy and paste the quotes (with the proper page number).

Works Cited

Your Works Cited should have TWO entries: 

  1. The book
  2. The article

You will use MyBib.com to create the Works Cited.

Go to mybib.com and click on Login.  Rename the "project" if you like.

For the book:  Click on Book.  Enter Book Title.  Click to select.

For the database article:  Click on More.  Click on Write/Paste (last one).  Paste the Citation from the Database article into the first box.  Click on Save.  

The Assignment: Analyzing Holden

Holden is experiencing a crisis or breakdown in The Catcher in the Rye. Research different possible psychiatric disorders based on Holden's behavior in the book. You will ultimately construct an argument using evidence from your research and the novel in a well-formed essay.

Step 1: Research possible disorders from which Holden could be suffering. You will take notes on one disorder. Use this notes sheet.  Use the Gale Virtual Reference Library  (at home type in montytech1) and pick a disorder from the notes sheet. 

  • Depression (sometimes referred to as major depression)
  • Bipolar Disorder (formally known as manic depression)
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Anxiety Disorder 

Step 2: Determine for yourself the disorder from which he is suffering.
Step 3: Take additional notes on the disorder in the same notes sheet using Gale Virtual Reference Library.
Step 4: Construct a thesis statement based on the disorder from which Holden is suffering with your reasons why. Cite quotes from the novel (see sheet).   Use the organizer to map out your argument. 
Step 5: Create an outline to develop your argument:

Step 6: Write your first paper draft (with evidence and citations).

Step 7: Make your Work Cited page using MyBib.com (2+ sources: The novel and at least one database source).

Step 8: Peer edit your draft and make revisions.

Step 9: Polish your work and put it together in a well-organized and presentable manner.

Short Analysis Format

 
Introduction Paragraph:
Write an interesting “hook” sentence that makes the reader want to read on.
 Mention the name of the book and the author.
Briefly state the main point(s) of your essay. Define the disorder.
Strong statement of thesis / main idea: Explain what disorder you think is Holden suffering from and why.
 
Supporting Paragraphs:
For each supporting paragraph bring down a briefly stated main point & elaborate.
Use your voice to discuss the prompt and the main point.
Use evidence from the story & the article(s) to support your ideas.

For example, you'll want to describe details about the disorder and discuss its symptoms.
You'll want to analyze Holden's behaviors (use details and quotations) and connect them to the research.
You'll want to explore potential causes and symptoms for Holden's issues.
Incorporate in-text citations from both the story & the article.
Use transition words to make the supporting paragraphs flow.  (i.e. furthermore, in addition, moreover, first, second, third, finally, again, also, and, besides, further, in the first place, last, likewise, next, then.)
Be sure to use YOUR voice and formal academic tone.

Conclusion Paragraph:
Restate your thesis / main idea.
Summarize your main points. (Tie up any loose ends.)
Create an strongly worded “clincher” sentence to end your conclusion.
Never introduce new information in the conclusion.
 
Works Cited:
A Works Cited is mandatory.(2 references required)
Include citation information from the book & the article.