Reading a Literary Analysis

Before you begin working on your own analysis, it's helpful to read how another student analyzed a piece of literature.

Reading a Student Model

This sample focuses on the character arc of Junior from The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. As you read the sample, pay close attention to how the writer describes changes in the character by citing examples from the text. Then consider how the writer connects those changes to larger lessons about life. Click on the side notes for a closer look at the key features.

Sample Literary Analysis

Reading a Character Analysis

Before you begin your own writing, you should read an example created by another student to get a sense of what a character analysis looks and sounds like. As you read, note how the writer describes the character, explores themes, and cites evidence from the literature. Click on the side notes to study these features.

Reading a Student Model

This student sample analyzes the main character from Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451. The analysis highlights how the character changes throughout the story and how the changes reflect some of the main themes of the work. The overall structure includes a beginning paragraph, multiple body paragraphs, and an ending paragraph. The writer uses source citations and discussions of theme to reveal qualities of the character.

Sample Character Analysis

Responding to a Poem for Assessment

When you closely read a poem on an assessment, pay attention to the sounds of poetry, such as rhythm, alliteration, and repetition. Also note the meaning of poetry, focusing on features like imagery, metaphor, and symbolism.

Source 2

Warm-Up for Literature Assessment

Some major assessments test your ability to read and respond to literature.

How Can I Practice for Assessment?

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The best way to practice for a reading and writing assessment is to take a practice test, like the one in this unit. You will closely read a story and a poem and write about them. You'll also write a story of your own.

You’ll find a playful story about a girl who tries to get away from her shadow. You’ll also read a poem about a man speaking to his reflection. Read them closely. You’ll be drawing evidence from them to build a response. You’ll also get to experiment with telling a story of your own.

If you would like more help with closely reading literature and responding in writing, see the unit “Reading and Writing Literature for Assessment.”

Responding to a Story for Assessment

When you closely read a story, pay attention to character, setting, conflict, and theme.

Source 1

Analyzing the Meaning of Poetry

Poetry uses different techniques to create different meanings. When you read a poem, watch for these kinds of techniques.

Analyzing the Sound of Poetry

As you know, a poem is not the same as a short story or a novel. One big difference is that poetry plays with the sounds of words. Different techniques create different sounds. When you read a poem, listen for these kinds of sounds.