Your response should include the following to receive the points in parentheses:

Respond in paragraph form, using complete sentences.
Respond to one of the following prompts:
In a fully developed paragraph, explain the process of writing a research paper, beginning with identifying a topic.
Choose one literary selection from this semester in which the setting has a great impact on the work. In a full paragraph, name the work, describe the setting, and explain why you think it is so important to the overall story or poem.

Writing a research paper involves a multi-step process that begins with identifying a topic. This can be done by brainstorming ideas, conducting preliminary research, and narrowing down the focus to a specific subject of interest. Once a topic has been chosen, the next step is to develop a thesis statement that will serve as the main argument of the paper. With the thesis in mind, the writer can then gather relevant sources, such as books, articles, and scholarly journals, to support their argument. After compiling research, the writer can begin outlining the paper, organizing their thoughts and evidence in a logical manner. The next step involves writing a first draft of the paper, making sure to cite sources properly and address any counterarguments. Finally, the writer revises and edits the paper, checking for grammar and spelling errors, improving the clarity of their argument, and ensuring that the paper flows smoothly from one point to the next.

One literary selection from this semester in which the setting plays a crucial role is Emily Dickinson's poem "Because I Could Not Stop for Death." The setting of the poem, which takes place in a carriage ride with Death, is essential to the overall tone and message of the work. The peaceful and serene setting of the carriage ride creates a sense of calm acceptance of death, rather than fear or resistance. Additionally, the imagery of passing by different landmarks, such as the school and the fields of grain, emphasizes the passage of time and the inevitability of death. Overall, the setting in Dickinson's poem underscores the theme of mortality and the cyclical nature of life and death, making it a vital component to the overall impact of the work.