Character Prompts

Choose a protagonist and a theme from a short story that you have read. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how the author uses literary elements and techniques to reveal that protagonist's complex perspective as it relates to the theme you discovered. Include apt and specific textual evidence and an explanation of said evidence that shows depth and understanding.

Choose a short story that you have read that includes contrasting characters. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how the author uses literary elements and techniques to reveal that contrasting relationship and how it relates to the theme you discovered. Include apt and specific textual evidence and an explanation of said evidence that shows depth and understanding.

Choose a short story that you have read that includes multiple characters. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how the author uses textual details to reveal the nuances and complexities in character's relationships with one another. Include apt and specific textual evidence and an explanation of said evidence that shows depth and understanding.

Setting Prompts

Choose a short story that has a meaningful and important setting and a theme from that short story. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how the author uses literary elements and techniques to develop the setting and how it functions in relation to the theme of the story. Include apt and specific textual evidence and an explanation of said evidence that shows depth and understanding.

Choose a short story that has a meaningful and important setting and a theme from that short story. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how the author uses literary elements and techniques to develop a relationship between the setting and the characters of the story that not only furthers the plot, but relates to the themes of the text. Include apt and specific textual evidence and an explanation of said evidence that shows depth and understanding.

Narrative Perspective Prompts

Choose a short story that you have read. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how the author uses literary elements and techniques to develop the narrative perspective of the text in relation to the theme. Include apt and specific textual evidence and an explanation of said evidence that shows depth and understanding.

Choose a short story that you have read. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze the function of the narrative perspective of the text in relation to the theme OR the development of the complex character(s). Include apt and specific textual evidence and an explanation of said evidence that shows depth and understanding.

Should social media companies be held responsible for the spread of misinformation? Argue for or against this statement, using specific examples to support your position.

Is a college education still necessary for a successful career? Take a stance on this modern debate, considering factors like trade schools, certifications, and the cost of tuition.

Should genetically modified foods be labeled? Argue whether or not consumers have a right to know if their food has been genetically modified.

Should students be able to grade their teachers? Present a case for or against student-led teacher evaluations and discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks.

Persuade your school to add a new course to the curriculum. Choose a subject (e.g., financial literacy, coding, creative writing) and argue why it would benefit your peers.

Write an essay to convince people to volunteer for a cause you care about. Explain the importance of the cause and how their contribution can make a difference.

Convince your family to adopt a new family pet. Describe the type of animal you want and explain why your home would be the perfect environment for it.

Persuade a fictional character to make a different choice. Choose a character from a book or movie and convince them to act differently to change the outcome of the story.

Write a story from the perspective of an animal observing human behavior. What do they think of our daily routines and strange habits?

The old grandfather clock in the town square has stopped for the first time in 200 years. Write a story about what happens when time comes to a standstill.

You find a locked box in your attic with a key taped to the top. The box has your name on it. Write a story about what is inside and why it was left for you.

Write a story about a person who can see people's moods as colors. Describe what the world looks like to them and how they navigate their daily life.

What if the sun never set? Write about the societal, environmental, and personal changes that would occur if it were always daytime.

Imagine a world where people are paid in compliments instead of money. How would this new economy function, and what would be considered a valuable compliment?

Write a poem or short story from the perspective of a forgotten object, like a single glove or a rusted key.

Create a short story about the person who designs the worlds for video games, but now their own world is falling apart.

Reflect on a recent challenge: What was a challenge you recently faced, and what did you learn from it? How did it change your perspective or skills?

Write a letter to your future self: What advice, hopes, and dreams would you share with yourself five or ten years from now?

Describe your perfect day: What does your ideal day look like, from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to sleep?

Explore a place from your childhood: Write a detailed description of a place that holds significant memories for you. Use all five senses to bring it to life.

Brainstorm a new hobby or skill: What is something new you want to learn, and why? What steps will you take to begin?