Invention:

First, determine which of the options you will pursue. If needed, reread the source articles (“Toys,” “Propaganda Techniques…”). Next, brainstorm to find a focus for your own essay. If you are going to analyze a toy, freewrite until you know your exact subject. If you are going to analyze an ad, study the choices until you know which one will be your subject.

Next, formulate a working thesis. Answering these questions should help.

If “Toys” is your focus: How would Barthes classify this toy? Would he identify it as a dynamic or socialized, and why? What does the toy communicate to kids? As Barthes would pose the question, what message is embedded in the toy?

If “Propaganda Techniques” is your focus: What is the central message this ad attempts to communicate. What kinds of propaganda techniques are used in this ad to communicate that message?

Planning:

Once you know the main point you are attempting to prove, you need to generate supporting evidence and organize the following components:

Introduction

Overview of the source text (“Toys” or “PTITA”)

Description of the subject (toy or ad).

Thesis statement

3-5 supporting points explained in detail and illustrated with evidence

Conclusion

750-1000 words and mla format