What is an essay-style question, and how would I write one about a book I read?
I don't have to answer the question
Start out essay questions with any of these words or phrases:
Explain why you think ...
Do you believe ____ or ____? Explain.
Explain how characterization was achieved for one of the main characters in _______.
In other words, make sure your question states or implies that EXPLANATION is required. Make sure you do not ask any questions that can be answered with just YES or NO.
An essay-style question is a question that requires you to write an essay in response, typically with a well-structured argument or analysis. It encourages you to critically engage with a topic, express your own ideas, and provide evidence to support your point of view. When writing an essay-style question about a book you have read, you can consider the following steps:
1. Choose a specific aspect of the book: Begin by identifying a particular theme, character, plot point, or literary technique that you found interesting or significant in the book. This will form the basis of your essay-style question.
2. Formulate a thought-provoking and open-ended question: Craft a question that prompts in-depth analysis and encourages thoughtful reflection. It should be broad enough to allow for multiple viewpoints and interpretations but focused enough to provide direction for your essay.
3. Incorporate key elements of the book: Ensure that your essay-style question requires you to analyze specific elements of the book. This could involve exploring the author's use of symbolism, the development of a character, or the overall themes and messages conveyed.
4. Develop a thesis statement: Your essay-style question should naturally lead to a clear thesis statement, which is the main argument or point that you will develop and support throughout your essay. Make sure your question allows for a strong and debatable thesis.
5. Include supporting evidence: Consider the evidence from the book that you will use to support your thesis statement. This can include direct quotations, examples, or specific incidents that illustrate your point.
Sample essay-style question for a book:
"What role does the symbolism of the green light serve in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, and how does it contribute to the themes of ambition and the American Dream?"
This question prompts an in-depth exploration of the significance of the green light symbol in the novel and its relation to the themes of ambition and the American Dream. It requires a careful analysis of specific scenes and instances where the green light is mentioned, as well as an evaluation of its impact on the characters and their aspirations.
Remember, an essay-style question allows you to delve deeper into your understanding of the book, explore complex ideas, and present a well-structured argument supported by evidence from the text.