Levels of Questions

Our approach to Anthem is going to be a bit different than what we've done in the past. This time, instead of your English teacher asking all the questions, you're going to write your questions for this text. Please remember to bring your Anthem book starting block day this week!

There are three "levels" of questions:

Level 1

• Plot facts (names, places, setting)
• "Fetch" questions - because you just go to the text and find the answer. 
• These answers are stated word-for-word in the text.
• No analysis or inference required.
• The answers to these questions are not debatable, because the answers can be found stated in the text. Because the answers are in the text, these questions can only be answered by those who have read the text. 
• Some examples: Where does SpongeBob live? What holiday does the Grinch hate? What is the setting of this story? What is the main character's name?

Level 2

• These questions require some analysis or interpretation or thinking to answer.
• Character motivations (Why does X character do X?), symbols, archetypes, inferences, compare and contrast.
• The answers to these questions may be debatable, but answers to these questions can be supported by evidence from the text. 
• Because the answers are based on the text, these questions can only be answered by those who have read the text. 
• Some examples: Why does the Grinch steal Christmas? Why does the Grinch give it back? How is DoodleBob different from SpongeBob?

Level 3

• Big picture questions
• These questions may contain thematic subjects (abstract nouns, such as happiness, freedom, relationships, sacrifice, etc.)
• These questions extend beyond the text, so they can be answered by anyone.
• Some examples: If you have great power, what responsibilities do you have for someone who has less power? Is it right to demand that someone sacrifices their own happiness for your happiness? What makes someone a good person? How do you define manhood? 

We practiced writing levels of questions by reading/watching The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein: