The first sentence should introduce both the author and the title. In a 5-paragraph essay (or even a 6, 7, etc. paragraph essay) where there is an introductory paragraph (unlike the conflict essay which is only 3 paragraphs), there should be some introduction of the general plot/main conflict, setting, and key characters. The intro can be improved by including this info (no more than 3 sentences; graders want to see minimal plot summary). The last sentence of the introductory paragraph should be the thesis statement. Since Marguerite experiences a conversion, the three traits will be composed of a consistent trait , an initial trait, and a post-conversion (new) trait. Therefore, the thesis statement (last sentence of the introductory paragraph) should articulate this conversion and the difference. Example:  "While she is consistently ______ (consistent trait), Marguerite initially is ________ (initial trait) but experiences a conversion which results in her becoming ________ (post-conversion trait)." A sentence similar to this one should be the last sentence in your introductory paragraph

As mentioned above, the three traits need to be divided into three categories: 1 consistent (a trait Marguerite has throughout the story, 1 initial trait (a trait Marguerite has before she changes, it is a more negative trait), and 1 post-conversion trait (a trait Marguerite adopts as a result of that conversion). The first body paragraph focuses on the consistent trait. The second body paragraph focuses on the initial trait.

In the third body paragraph, focus on Marguerite's conversion and what trait she adopts as a result from it. In this case, it is the opposite of her initial trait (a more positive trait).   The English 10 Course Manual details this near the bottom pg. 113 in your English 10 Course Manual

Another key issue in your character sketch is specific examples. In each body paragraph, you need to give at least 3 specific examples to prove the main character (Marguerite) has that particular trait. Specific examples are moments, events, or scenes that show the main character saying or doing something that reveals the trait. For example, in A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, a specific example that would show how Scrooge (the main character) is greedy is pointing out the scene in which he refuses to give any money to 3 gentlemen who ask for donations for the poor. This is a specific action Scrooge takes in the story that shows his miserly or greedy trait.

In a similar way, you need to highlight Marguerite's specific actions that reflect one of her traits. In providing specific examples, make sure you avoid general commentary like "she makes people around her feel more positive." While a sentence or two of plot summary is okay when providing context to particular scene, avoid general commentary; stick to specific scenes and events. 

For help in determining what traits Marguerite has, review the chapter notes on SetonOnline. Skim the chapter note questions for ones concerning Marguerite's character. 

In summary:

• 1st body paragraph (consistent trait)- focus on Marguerite charming trait
  
• 2nd body paragraph (initial trait)- focus on Marguerite's initial trait (think the opposite of selfless)
• 3rd body paragraph- focus on Marguerite's conversion her becoming selfless
  

In writing the concluding (5th paragraph), follow the "3 R's" in writing a concluding paragraph in an academic essay:

Restate- restate the thesis statement

Recap- recap the main points in your body paragraphs

Remark- feel free to end the essay with a personal remark

Conflict Essay
 Follow this progression in writing the 1st body paragraph:

1. The first sentence should introduce the novel's title and author and state the category of conflict (your sentence should say explicitly "category of conflict is man vs. man"). On pg. 114 in your English 10 Course Manual, it states that the main conflict's category is man vs man (Marguerite vs Chauvelin). Since you focused on Marguerite for your character sketch, you must focus Marguerite vs Chauvelin in this essay. Since it is not a 5-paragraph essay, there is no need to introduce the main plot, setting, key characters, etc.; proceed directly in stating the category of conflict and what that conflict consists of. Then, state when the basis of the conflict (or the beginning of the conflict) happens. For the basis of conflict, think about when Chauvelin first attempts to involve her in the capture of the Scarlet Pimpernel.
   
2. The second paragraph should focus on the rising action. This is done by showing 3 specific events in the text that show that conflict intensifying. I suggest picking one event nearer the beginning, middle, and end (close to the climax). Again, these are specific events. The graders do not want to see general plot summary.
   
3. The third paragraph is dedicated to stating when the climax occurs, explaining why it is the conflict, and when the resolution occurs, explaining why it is the resolution. Climax and resolution are described on gp. 115. The graders are looking for a student to explicitly label these events: "The climax occurs when...." "The resolution occurs when..."
   
4. Lastly, make sure there are only 3 paragraphs for the conflict essay.