Deconstructing A Writing Prompt

Why is it important to deconstruct or "attack" a writing prompt?

• So that you will know the purpose

• So that you will know the audience

• So that you will know the format

• So that you will answer the question that is asked

• So that you can make up a question to answer

What is the PURPOSE of a writing prompt?

• The task you are to complete or write about

• The type of crowd you are to write

• The approach you should take when writing

To describe something in detail so that it is more clearly understood.

• Illustrate

• Describe

• Explain

• Identify

To give one or more examples of the topic, relating each to the topic

• Illustrate

• Explain

• Identify

• Describe

To show how two things are both alike and different

• Compare

• Explain

• Identify

• Evaluate

To give an opinion telling the positive and negative qualities of something

• Contrast

• Explain

• Evaluate

• Identify

Read the Prompt:

We all have activities that we enjoy.

Think of one particular activity that you enjoy. Now identify that one activity and explain why you enjoy that particular activity.

Question: What will you have to write about?

• One activity that we enjoy doing and the reasons why we enjoy it.

• The difference between activities you enjoy versus the ones you do not enjoy

• Activities that your friends and family enjoy doing

Read the prompt:

What does it take to be a good parent?

In your essay, describe the characteristics of a good parent. Give specific details to explain your views. Use your personal observations, experience, and knowledge.

Question: What will you have to include in your essay.

• The differences between a good parent and a bad parent

• An account of specific details of the characteristics of a bad parent

• An account of specific details of the characteristics of a good parent

• An account of specific details of the characteristics of a bad spouse

An essay in which you attempt to in which you attempt to get the reader to agree with your point of view

• Informative

• Explanatory

• Persuasive

• Cause/Effect

An essay that's written with the main purpose of informing the audience about an object, person, event, or phenomenon

• Agree/Disagree

• Cause/Effect

• Persuasive

• Informative