THESIS (Response to the prompt + Claim(s) + MOWAW):
BODY PARAGRAPH 1
Topic Sentence:
Specific Example 1:
Commentary for Specific Example 1 (Consider: What does it mean?):
Push Commentary Further (Consider: How do you know? Why does it matter?):
Specific Example 2:
Commentary for Specific Example 2 (Consider: What does it mean?):
Push Commentary Further (Consider: How do you know? Why does it matter?):
Conclusive Thought (How does this tie into the prompt and/or the MOTWAAW?):
BODY PARAGRAPH 2
Topic Sentence:
Specific Example 1:
Commentary for Specific Example 1 (Consider: What does it mean?):
Push Commentary Further (Consider: How do you know? Why does it matter?):
Specific Example 2:
Commentary for Specific Example 2 (Consider: What does it mean?):
Push Commentary Further (Consider: How do you know? Why does it matter?):
Is There Another Specific Example You Could Provide?:
Conclusive Thought (How does this tie into the prompt and/or the MOTWAAW?):
CONCLUSION
Restate Thesis / MOTWAAW:
Push MOTWAAW further (complexity):
REVIEW SHEET (Little Women)
Directions: Answer the following tasks completely. The AP test has expressed their desire for AP Literature students to
understand and be able to describe the “Big 7” skills. This document is designed to help you study these “Big 7” skills in
preparation for essays and reflection for the AP test.
,Title: Little Women
Author: Louisa May Alcott
7. ARGUMENT: This is perhaps the most important element of the sheet. This can be revised, if as you
work through this sheet, your answer is challenged or refined by your intensive study. What is the
meaning of the work? In other words, what comment is the author making about the real world? What
insight does the author make about life in his/her time or, universally, in our time?
In Little Women, Louisa May Alcott presents a multifaceted exploration of the lives and struggles of
women in 19th-century America, emphasizing themes such as family, personal growth, and the evolving
roles of women.
The novel serves as a commentary on societal expectations and the pursuit of individuality, particularly
through Jo March, who embodies the desire for independence and creative expression in a time when
such aspirations were often stifled by traditional gender roles.
Alcott critiques the limitations placed on women by society while simultaneously celebrating their strength
and resilience. The March sisters navigate their personal journeys against the backdrop of poverty and
familial duty, ultimately illustrating that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in love, kindness,
and personal integrity —> resonates universally, as it encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and
the importance of familial bonds and self-improvement.
Addresses how true feminism does not mean judging a woman for continuing traditionally conventional
roles such as marriage. Instead, true feminism lies in the act of the woman having the CHOICE of what
they want to pursue and do in their life, whether it be becoming a housewife, or pursuing a career.
Furthermore, the novel addresses the moral lessons imparted by Marmee, which emphasize compassion,
humility, and the significance of community support. Alcott’s portrayal of sisterhood highlights the
importance of female relationships—>fostering personal growth and emotional well-being. In this way,
Little Women transcends its historical context to offer timeless reflections on the human experience,
making it relevant to both Alcott's contemporaries and modern readers alike. Through its rich character
development and thematic depth, Little Women ultimately advocates for a more equitable society where
women's voices are valued and their contributions are recognized (feminism)
, CHARACTER: Select the main (most significant) characters in the work. In one sentence for each character,
describe his/her personality. Be sure to include if the character undergoes a significant change. Describe a
specific, significant moment from the work that helps define each character. Do not use the same moment twice.
Select two to four characters to describe.
Jo March - a strong-willed and ambitious young woman with a fiery temper who struggles to conform to
societal expectations of femininity.
A significant moment that defines her character occurs when she rejects Laurie’s marriage proposal, asserting her
desire for independence and a career as a writer, which marks a pivotal point in her journey toward self-discovery.
Meg March - eldest sister, characterized by her beauty, poised bahvior and traditional values, often
striving to fulfill societal expectations of womanhood.
Her significant moment comes when she attends a high-society party and realizes the superficiality of wealth,
leading her to appreciate the value of love and family over social status.
Amy March - the youngest sister, is initially portrayed as vain and concerned with social status, but she
evolves throughout the story.
A significant moment for Amy is when she falls through the ice and is rescued by Jo; this incident helps her
recognize the importance of family bonds over material desires, prompting her growth into a more mature and
generous individual.
Laurie - a charming and adventurous young man who initially embodies a carefree spirit but struggles
with feelings of loneliness and the weight of familial expectations.
A significant moment that defines Laurie occurs when he proposes to Jo March, only to be rejected; this rejection
catalyzes his personal growth as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, ultimately leading him to mature and
find love with Amy.
Select up to two significant minor characters, and in one sentence for each, describe his/her personality.
Beth March - gentle and selfless sister who embodies kindness and compassion, serving as the
emotional heart of the family.
A defining moment for Beth occurs when she contracts scarlet fever after caring for the Hummels, showcasing her
self-sacrificial nature and ultimately leading to her gradual decline in health, which profoundly impacts her sisters.