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. Many of the novel’s scenes take place in or near the ocean. What is the symbolic significance of this setting?

• What is the symbolic meaning of the sea in this story? (topic sentence)
• What events in the story take place in or near the water? What do these events have in common? What details and language support your ideas about what these events have in common?
• Finally, discuss in your concluding sentence or sentences how the symbolic significance of the ocean supports the novel’s overall meaning.

2. In well-constructed literature, violence is not included for entertainment value; instead, it is included to support meaning. Choose one of the violent incidents in The Stranger and explain how it supports the novel’s meaning.

• Besides its literal meaning in the plot, what larger meaning does the incident have? What else does the violent incident show is true about life? (topic sentence)
• What are three ways that the text supports your claim? Check the passage’s diction, imagery, details, and figurative language for evidence that your interpretation is correct.