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

1. The jury’s verdict is a high point of suspense in the story.

• What is the jury’s verdict? (topic sentence)
• Based on the trial evidence, do you think this verdict is fair and justified? Explain your reasoning in several points of detail.
• Conclude with a statement that explains, had you been a juror on the trial, how you might have persuaded other jurors to vote as you did.

2. Consider the irony that someone as adept at reading people as Mayherne is fooled by Romaine when she is pretending to be Mrs. Mogson.

• Why does Mayherne fall for Romaine’s disguise as Mrs. Mogson? (topic sentence)
• Why is it surprising that Mayherne would fall for the disguise? Incorporate details from the story in your explanation.
• Conclude with a brief summary of the way in which Christie uses this moment to portray a theme.

3. Consider Leonard Vole’s character traits and actions.