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. How does Brian use knowledge from books, movies, and life experiences to his advantage?

• A direct answer to this question should serve as your topic sentence.
• Provide at least three examples of Brian’s reliance on his memory of information from books, movies, and life experiences. Analyze each example in a separate paragraph, explaining how the example supports the answer you provided in the topic sentence.
• Finally, discuss in your concluding sentence or sentences how Brian’s use of knowledge connects to his overall success surviving in the wilderness.

2. Brian often talks about luck. Does Brian have good or bad luck? What does the novel say about the concept of luck?

• In your opinion, does Brian generally have good or bad luck? (topic sentence)
• What are three examples that support your assertion of whether Brian’s luck is good or bad?
• Finally, describe in your concluding sentence or sentences the novel’s overall message about luck and survival in the wilderness.