Module 3 Expository Outline Template

1. INTRODUCTION

A. Hook: How will you gain the reader's attention so that they want to read
your essay?
Adolescence is a key personal development where individuals start to question
their identity, personality, dreams and purpose of life by experimenting with a
variety of activities. Once figured out, it is vital to pursue them and express
them to the fullest, because those traits define what ultimately makes you,
yourself. Ever felt rejected, ignored or ridiculed due to some eccentricities of
yours? Don’t let these reactions deject you, it’s important to be strong-willed,
just like Jo march in Little Women.

B. Background: Discuss the Romantic Period and the theme of the novel.
In fact, the Romantic Era is considered one of the favorite movements among
teenagers nowadays. Because the main characteristics are subjectivity,
imagination and individualism, or an emphasis on each individual’s freedom
of expression and uniqueness. Furthermore, a famous literary piece belonging
to this movement is Little Women, which involves how four loving sisters
mature to reach their adulthood facing different situations using their own
unique personality traits.

C. Thesis: This is the thesis statement you created in 3.06.

Therefore, “individualism”, key trait of Romanticism, is strongly reflected in
this novel especially through Jo’s independence, courage and uniqueness.

2. FIRST BODY PARAGRAPH

A. Main idea 1: Provide first sample event from the story that demonstrates
individualism
In chapter 1, Alcott gives a glimpse to the personality of each sister through
their discussion about presents. Jo March, unlike her lady-like sisters, tends to
act boyishly, doesn’t care about etiquettes and prefers masculine habits to
feminine ones. However, in this time period girls were expected to be graceful
and etiquette was greatly valued.
B. Evidence to support main idea 1: Example quote #1 (from lesson 3.05)
“It’s bad enough to be a girl, anyway, when I like boy’s games and work and manners! I can’t
get over my disappointment in not being a boy. And it’s worse than ever now, for I’m dying to
go and fight with Papa. And I can only stay home and knit, like a poky old woman!”
C. Evidence to support main idea 1: Example quote #2 (from lesson 3.
“but Jo, who didn’t care much for girls or girlish gossip, stood about, with her back carefully
against the wall, and felt as much out of place as a colt in a flower garden.”

D. Analysis: Connect the ideas in your own words

As we can see, Jo openly expresses her unique desire to act like a boy that is not
expected in the society. Also as a result of her quirkiness, she sometimes finds
it difficult to fit in, like in the ball.

3. BODY PARAGRAPH 2

A. Main idea 2: Provide a second sample event from the story that
demonstrates individualism
On the other hand, Jo and Lawrie has a trait in common: they both have a
interest in art. Jo loves creative writing while Lawrie is into music: he plays
the piano. Also, they both have the courage to express their interests,

B. Evidence to support main idea 2: Example quote #3 (from lesson 3.05)

“‘I don’t see how you can write and act such splendid things, Jo. You’re a regular Shakespeare!’
exclaimed Beth, who firmly believed that her sisters were gifted with wonderful genius in all
things.”

C. Evidence to support main idea 2: Example quote #4 (from lesson 3.05)

“‘How silly!’ said Jo. ‘Let him be a musician if he wants to, and not plague his life out sending
him to college, when he hates to go.’”
D. Analysis: Connect the ideas in your own words
As we can see, they both expressed their interests without hesitation despite
how others view them. The thing is, other people’s opinions are another story
for Jo and Lawrie, especially for Jo, who expressed her displeasure upon
learning the fact that Lawrie’s granddad didn’t approve of his son studying
music.

4. CONCLUSION

A. Thesis: Restate or summarize your thesis or focus

All in all, Little Women is a direct literary choice for those who are
interested in learning about the Romantic Era and its traits as well as for
those who struggle to be themselves due to common stereotypes or
society’s pressure. Sometimes, it’s necessary to be more careless about
others’ opinions on you and be a risk taker in order to follow your dreams.
Personally, although I don’t relate to Jo at all, I surely have a lot learn from
her.