After Reading

Writing from Literature When you have closely examined a piece of literature, you are able to interpret it – to figure out meanings that are not obvious at first glance. Write an essay that interprets a literary work and helps readers find new meaning or significance in it.

Writing Workshop

Writing Prompts

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WRITING PROMPT 1

Interpretive Essay

Topics to Consider

• how conflict in “Harrison Bergeron” helps get the author’s message across

• how setting and mood in “Searching for Summer” affect the meaning of the story

After Reading

Writing from the Real World Choose a memorable story from a movie or book that you recently viewed or read. Write an essay that briefly summarizes the story and examines its deeper meaning or overall message.

Writing Workshop

Writing Prompts

WRITING PROMPT 2

Interpretive Essay

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Places to Look

•movies that have strong characters, such as Spider-Man or Whale Rider.

• television shows that use a particular setting, such as a courtroom or a hospital

After Reading

Writing from the Real World Write an interpretation of a television ad, describing the ad’s images and sound and explaining how these elements affect its message.

Possible Subjects

• a public-service ad about a health issue

• an ad for the latest technological device

Writing Workshop

Writing Prompts

WRITING PROMPT 3

Interpretive Essay

. . .continued

After Reading

Writing About Fine Art Artists use elements such as color, line, and shape to communicate their thoughts and feelings. Choose an abstract work of art from this book or an online source and write an interpretation of it.

Writing Workshop

Writing Prompts

WRITING PROMPT 4

Interpretive Essay