​4.4_Analytical Paragraph, Embedding Quotations

​Analytical Paragraph, Embedding Quotations

By Celi Oliveto

1. What does it mean to “embed” a quote?

Embedding a quote means fitting the quotation naturally into your own sentence so it flows smoothly.
➡️ No “quote dumping.”
➡️ No starting a sentence with “This quote shows…”

Multiple Choice

Is this an embedded quote?

Boxer’s blind loyalty becomes clear whenever he repeats that he will “work harder,” showing how easily the pigs use his dedication to exploit him.

• Yes, it's embedded into the writer's own voice.

• No, it just quotes the text without providing any context.

Multiple Choice

Is this an embedded quote?

“All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others.” This shows the pigs became corrupt.

• Yes, it's embedded into the writer's own voice.

• No, it just quotes the text without providing any context.

Multiple Choice

Is this an embedded quote?

"All humans are an enemy. All animals are comrades." Shows how loyalty among animals is highly valued at the beginning of the novel.

• Yes, it's embedded into the writer's own voice.

• No, it just quotes the text without providing any context.

Multiple Choice

Is this an embedded quote?

Napoleon executes the animals ruthlessly and "...sends the dogs out" to assert his dominance over Animal Farm.

• Yes, it's embedded into the writer's own voice.

• No, it just quotes the text without providing any context.

Multiple Choice

Is this an embedded quote?

Mollie asks, "will there be sugar after the rebellion?" showcasing her desire to maintain special treatment.

• Yes, it's embedded into the writer's own voice.

• No, it just quotes the text without providing any context.

2. Formula for Embedding a Quote

Use this simple structure:

➡️ Context + Signal Phrase + Quotation + Explanation

• Context: When/where does this moment happen?

• Signal Phrase: Orwell writes, The narrator explains, Squealer claims, Napoleon demands, etc.

• Quotation: Short, relevant evidence.

• Explanation: Why the quote proves your theme.

Helpful Signal Phrases

4. Helpful Signal Phrases

Students may use:

• Orwell writes…

• The narrator explains…

• Napoleon insists…

• Squealer argues…

• The animals realize…

• Boxer believes…

• The pigs claim…

5. Tips for Strong Embedded Evidence

✅ Use short quotes (5–10 words) when possible.
✅ Make sure the quote directly supports the theme.
✅ Avoid starting a sentence with a quotation.
✅ Always explain the quote—never assume it’s obvious.

Open Ended

Fix this dropped quote:
The pigs break their own rules. “No animal shall sleep in a bed with sheets.”

How to add Page Numbers

When you embed a quotation, you must include a parenthetical citation with the author’s last name and the page number where the quote appears.

MLA Format:

“quotation” (Orwell 45).

• No commas inside the parentheses

• No “pg.” or “p.”

• The period goes after the parenthesis

• Author’s last name + page number only

How to add Page Numbers

1. Embedded Quote + MLA Citation

Orwell shows the pigs’ corruption when the animals discover that “some animals are more equal than others” (Orwell 112).

2. With a Signal Phrase

As Orwell writes, “Squealer could turn black into white” (52).

Common Mistakes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ “quote.” (Orwell, 23) — No comma
❌ “quote” (Orwell pg. 23). — Do not write pg.
❌ (George Orwell 45) — Use only the last name
❌ Period before parentheses — Put it after

Multiple Choice

“Surely, comrades, you do not want Jones back?” (Orwell pg. 36).

What is the error in this citation?

• period in the wrong place

• no parenthesis needed

• last name not needed if in the signal phrase

• doesn't need the pg. in the parenthesis

Multiple Choice

Squealer convinces the animals of anything because he can “turn black into white” (52).

What is the error in this citation?

• period in the wrong place

• no parenthesis needed

• last name not needed if in the signal phrase

• author last name needed since not in the signal phrase

Multiple Choice

Boxer shows his loyalty to Animal Farm when he declares that he “...will work harder!” (Orwell, 28).

What is the error in this citation?

• period in the wrong place

• no comma needed in the citation

• last name not needed if in the signal phrase

• needs the pg. in the parenthesis

Multiple Choice

According to the narrator, “No animal shall sleep in a bed with sheets.” (Orwell 45.)

What is the error in this citation?

• period in the wrong place

• no parenthesis needed

• last name not needed if in the signal phrase

• needs the pg. in the parenthesis

Multiple Choice

Orwell writes, “All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others” (Orwell 112).

What is the error in this citation?

• period in the wrong place

• no parenthesis needed

• last name not needed if in the signal phrase

• needs the pg. in the parenthesis

Open Ended

Let's fix this citation together

Orwell shows Napoleon’s selfishness when he demands “more rations for the pigs” (45 Orwell).

Open Ended

Let's fix this citation together

The commandment changed to “No animal shall drink alcohol to excess.” (Orwell pg. 108).

Open Ended

Let's fix this citation together

“The pigs did not actually work, but directed and supervised the others.” (Orwell 27) This shows how lazy they were.