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 play over the course of your response that serve as examples and support.

1. The story addresses racial stereotypes on multiple levels.

• What racial stereotypes are expressed in this story? (topic sentence)
• How does the story help to subvert those stereotypes?
• Conclude with discussion of how stereotypes are twisted in this story.

2. Recall your own reading experience.

• What did you think was happening when Jim placed his hands around Olaf’s neck? (topic sentence)
• What cues in the story led you to this conclusion?
• Conclude with a statement that analyzes the reader’s experience in this crucial moment.

3. Wright’s work shows the influence of psychological realism.

• What is psychological realism? (topic sentence)
• What characteristics in this story exhibit traits of psychological realism?
• Conclude with an analytical statement that answers why Wright might have used psychological realism in this story.

Full Essay Assignments

Student Prompt: Write a structured and well-developed essay. Include a thesis statement, at least three main points supported by text details, and a conclusion.