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. Although Stargirl exhibits great Team/School Spirit, there is a dichotomy between her actions and those of the MAHS cheerleading squad. Describe the main conflict between Stargirl and her fellow MAHS cheerleaders throughout the course of the novel.

• How does Stargirl’s opinion on “cheerleading” differ from the MAHS cheer squad’s opinion? (topic sentence)
• Find 3 instances in the novel when Stargirl clashes with the MAHS cheerleading squad.
• In your concluding sentence or sentences, explain how these contrasting viewpoints relate to the overall theme of Fitting in/Standing Out.

2. During a conversation between Archie and Leo at Archie’s house, Archie jokingly asks the cactus, Señor Saguaro, about Leo’s dilemma with his love for Stargirl and her dwindling popularity. Archie reports back from Señor Saguaro, saying the only question that Leo should ask is “Whose affection [does he] value more, hers or the others’?” (Chapter 19) Examine how much Leo cares about his love for Stargirl versus her popularity in school.