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. Wade’s ultimate prize is complete control over the existence of the OASIS.

• Who would suffer more if Wade shut down the OASIS, the general public users or the corporate stakeholders? (topic sentence)
• Describe 2-3 consequences of a shutdown for your chosen entity.
• Conclude your essay with an explanation of the impact of these consequences.

2. Despite having all the same resources about Halliday and an army of Sixers at his disposal, Sorrento was still unable to beat Parzival.

• What is it about Wade/Parzival that allows him to triumph? (topic sentence)
• List 2-3 characteristics that give him an edge in the Hunt.
• Conclude your essay with an explanation of how these characteristics led Wade to victory.

3. Being gunters often dictates how the characters interact with one another.

• Which of the characters will experience the most change in their relationship now that the Contest is over? (topic sentence)
• List 2-3 elements of their relationship that will change.