Read the poem “Dead Stars” by H.O. Santos
.
Analyze and critique the poem using either Formalism, Feminism, Marxism, or Reader-response.
DEAD STARS
(for Paz Marquez Benitez)
by H.O. Santos
If I still think of her today
Why didn’t I tell her long ago?
I could have saved all wondering
For I’d have peace if I did know.
If I had learned of metaphors
Before I wondered ’bout the stars
Would I have written verses then?
And worshipped Venus instead of Mars?
If I had found my tongue could rhyme
Would I have shown a face sans mask?
A heart unsure? But woe is me-
I’ll never know, I didn’t ask.
Source: https://www.sushidog.com/bpss/poems staff/stars2.html
Rubric for the Critique
Criterion
Outstanding
(5 pts.)
Exceeds Expectations
(4 pts.)
Meets Expectations
(3 pts.)
Approaching Expectations
(2 pts.)
Unacceptable
(1 pt.)
Introduction
Introduction
grabs attention and provides meaningful context to a persuasive argument
Introduction
sparks some interest and effectively introduces reasonable argument
Introduction provides context for the argument but is obvious and/or basic
Introduction or conclusion does not flow with the argument of the paper
No introduction
Thesis
Argument is clearly articulated and persuasive, contains an original opinion
Thesis presents a reasonable opinion, argument is clear and focused
Thesis is a plausible argument; contains a legitimate opinion, but somewhat broad and basic
Thesis demonstrates misunderstanding of the prompt or text
Thesis not evident
Topic Sentences
and Transitions
Topic sentences contribute to the highly persuasive nature of the argument
Topic sentences articulate precise argument; logically linked to thesis
Topic sentences are present and make an argument connected to the thesis; however, ideas are obvious and basic
Topic sentences show misunderstanding or prompt text
Topic sentences not evident
Evidence
You have chosen, for the most part, the best evidence to support your point
Your evidence is believable and convincing and supports your argument
Evidence is present, but superficial
Evidence chosen does not support thesis/topic sentences
Little or no evidence
Commentary
Creative/ original ideas and insights; extensive commentary, refreshing, goes beyond obvious and basic commentary
Analysis is believable and convincing , a few assertions may lack specific examples, but assertions are still clearly connected to the argument
Analysis supports your argument, but ideas are obvious and basic
Ideas lack development; misunderstanding of prompt or text; illogical argument;
Analysis not present simply plot summary
Style, Vocabulary, Sentence Structure
Sophisticated vocabulary; sentence variety; quotations are smoothly blended
Effectively blends direct quotation with explanatory words and phrases to introduce the quotation and facilitate narrative flow; still attempting advanced vocabulary
Blend quoted material smoothly, but sentence structure lack variety- basic and obvious; attempts to incorporate more advanced vocabulary
Problems with sentence clarity, redundancy; some quotes stand alone; some vague sentences; little use of class vocabulary or sentence variety
Serious problems with coherence and sentence clarity; most sentences need revision; most quotes stand alone and lack introduction/
connection to the paper
Mechanics and
Coherence
Perfect (or 1 or 2 minor errors)
Effective punctuation; close to perfect
Minor problems with coherence, grammar, spelling, punctuation, but does not interfere with the understanding of paper
Several distracting problems with spelling, grammar, punctuation, citations incorrect
Major spelling, grammar, punctuation errors; distracts and interferes with understanding of paper; citations nonexistent
Leave a Reply