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.

Differentiation Suggestion: For English learners or struggling writers, strategies that work well include graphic organizers, sentence frames or starters, group work, or oral responses.

Scaffolded Essay Questions

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

1. Miranda’s relationship with Jonny changes throughout the course of the story.

• How does Miranda’s view of Jonny change over the course of the novel? (topic sentence)
• Compare Miranda’s view of Jonny before the moon is hit by the asteroid to what she thinks and feels about him at the end. Provide examples of relevant turning points and interactions that show Miranda’s changes in progress.
• In your closing sentences, evaluate whether Pfeffer’s portrayal of these characters is believable.

2. Megan’s faith has an effect on her relationships with Miranda and Sammi.

• How do Megan’s experiences at church change her attitude toward Miranda and Sammi? (topic sentence)
• Provide examples of how Megan interacts with each girl and that depict how Megan is different from years past.