Name __________________________________ Date _____________

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English 10H 1 Quarter Independent Reading Essay

Directions: Select ONE of the prompts below and write a well-developed essay based on your
reading of your independent novel. DO NOT simply provide a summary of your reading. Rather,
analyze the novel based on the prompt you select. You must include at least four quotes (with
page #s) throughout your essay.

 What is one underlying theme that your author reveals by the conclusion of the novel?
Craft a theme statement, and provide a thorough analysis of how your author develops
that theme.

 Explain how two characters in your novel are character foils—how do they directly
contrast with one another in order to highlight their differences? How does this
characterization impact the plot over the course of the novel?

 How does your author effectively utilize one of the following literary elements/devices:
point of view, symbolism, imagery, or diction? What effect does the author’s use of the
device have within the novel?

 Does your protagonist prove to be a dynamic character? (Does he/she show

growth/maturity/development?) Analyze specific moments that reveal these changes over
the course of the novel. What is the importance of this change within the character?

 Analyze the conclusion of the novel. How did your author choose to end it (was it ironic,
suspenseful, emotional, realistic, etc.)? Was it an appropriate ending/was it significant?