Extended Response

An extended response a detailed, well-developed paragraph that answers a question. An extended response doesn’t simply answer the question, it proves that you really know what you’re talking about because you can back up your opinion with reasons, details, examples.

How long is an extended response? It should be long enough to fully explain using details why you believe what you believe. The first sentence should directly answer the question. You specifically state your opinion. The following sentences should provide reasons, details or examples to back up your answer/opinion. You should probably have about 3 supporting reasons/details/examples to fully explain yourself. Each supporting reason might take a couple of sentences. The last sentence should conclude strongly.

Example:

Which do you think is more powerful: fate or free will?

I believe more in the power of free will. I think that humans’ ability to reason is what separates us from the rest of the world. We have the freedom to make choices that directly influence our future. For example, I chose to move to Colorado, out of many choices. As a direct result, I met the man I married, and we decided to have children. My life would be completely different had I made a different choice. Another example of free will prevailing over fate in my life is my decision to have surgery to prevent the recurrence of my cancer. Since I have the breast cancer gene, the chances of the cancer coming back are very high. Instead of leaving it up to fate, I have chosen surgery, which will reduce the chance of recurrence by 95%. Finally, I believe that people should make conscious decisions about their lives instead of waiting around for fate to take its course. I think that embracing the power of free will prevents apathy and encourages change: it makes us better human beings. In Odysseus’s time, the Greeks believed more in the power of fate in order to explain the tough times or unexpected outcomes for situations in the universe, but as a modern person, I believe I control my life.

Color coded key:

Topic sentence

Transitions

Example number one

Example number two

Example number three

Conclusion

1. Each Greek god represented a human value: power (Zeus), wisdom (Athena), purity (Artemis), and so on. Which of the Greek gods represents the value that is most important in your life? Show us with specific reference to your experience.

2. You have learned about many different Greek myths. Based on your understanding of them, what kind of relationship did Greeks have with their gods? In your answer, refer to at least three different myths, showing in each case how humans and Gods interact. How does the Greek view of the world differ from your own?