Use these essay questions as writing and critical thinking exercises for all levels of writers, and to build their literary analysis skills by requiring textual references throughout the essay. 

Scaffolded/Short-Answer Essay Questions

Student Prompt: Write a short (1-3 paragraph) response using one of the below bulleted outlines. Cite details from the novel over the course of your response that serve as examples and support.

1. Consider the various problems Lisa faces over the course of the novel.

• How does Lisa use critical thinking to overcome these problems? (topic sentence)
• Identify two moments when Lisa confronts a problem and discuss her problem-solving strategies. If she successfully meets the challenge, explain what works; if she fails, explain why.
• Finally, use your concluding sentence or sentences to discuss what these examples suggest about what it means to Think Through Problems.

2. Consider Craig’s decision not to return with Lisa to Glenbard.

• How does Craig’s philosophy (on life, society, work, etc.) differ from Lisa’s? (topic sentence)
• Identify three passages where Craig and Lisa clash on one or more of these issues and analyze them in relation to your topic section.
• Finally, use your concluding sentence or sentences to discuss what the conflict between Lisa and Craig tells us about either Idealism Versus Practicality, Individualism Versus Collectivism, or The Nature of Proper Governance.