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 text over the course of your response that serve as examples and support.

1. Throughout the text, Raina experiences different emotions related to her teeth.

• How do Raina’s teeth affect her self-esteem? (topic sentence)
• Outline how Raina reacts to the different stages of her treatment and how they influence her daily life.
• Does the condition of her teeth ultimately determine her happiness?

2. Raina develops feelings for Sammy and then Sean over the course of the story. Using examples from the text, explain what qualities Raina wants in a relationship and how each crush appeals to her.

• What initially sparks her interest in her crushes? (topic sentence)
• How do her crushes reflect her own anxieties?
• How are her crushes resolved?

3. Certain incidents throughout the text cause Raina to leave her friend group.

• How does Raina’s relationship with her friends deteriorate throughout the text? (topic sentence)
• What role, if any, did Raina’s dental issues have in determining her social status?
• What does she learn about her friendships over the course of the story?