Stargirl

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

1. Although Stargirl exhibits great Team/School Spirit, there is a dichotomy between her actions and those of the MAHS cheerleading squad. Describe the main conflict between Stargirl and her fellow MAHS cheerleaders throughout the course of the novel.

• How does Stargirl’s opinion on “cheerleading” differ from the MAHS cheer squad’s opinion? (topic sentence)
• Find 3 instances in the novel when Stargirl clashes with the MAHS cheerleading squad.
• In your concluding sentence or sentences, explain how these contrasting viewpoints relate to the overall theme of Fitting in/Standing Out.

2. During a conversation between Archie and Leo at Archie’s house, Archie jokingly asks the cactus, Señor Saguaro, about Leo’s dilemma with his love for Stargirl and her dwindling popularity. Archie reports back from Señor Saguaro, saying the only question that Leo should ask is “Whose affection [does he] value more, hers or the others’?” (Chapter 19) Examine how much Leo cares about his love for Stargirl versus her popularity in school.

• Is Leo more concerned about his popularity or his relationship with Stargirl (i.e., Fitting In or Standing Out)? (topic sentence)
• Find 3 examples in the novel to substantiate your argument.
• Based on the evidence, how would Leo answer the question from Señor Saguaro? Address this question in your concluding sentence.

3. Stargirl and Susan seem opposite in nature. The two personas can be compared and contrasted in a number of ways.

• How are Stargirl and Susan different? What is their obvious similarity? (topic sentence)
• Discuss 3 ways in which the personas are different from each other.
• What do these differences say about Stargirl’s personality? Who is more interested in Standing Out versus Fitting In? Address these points in your concluding sentences.

Full Essay Assignments

Student Prompt: Write a structured and well-developed essay. Include a thesis statement, at least 3 main points supported by text details, and a conclusion.

1. Stargirl is a truly unique character; from her appearance to her actions, she is very much unlike her peers. Which one of Stargirl’s traits do you think makes her the most unique? Why? How does this specific example of her Individuality affect her relationship with others?

2. Written as a first-person narrative in the future, Leo’s account of his time at MAHS gives insight into his feelings for Stargirl. At the time, however, Leo struggles with sharing how he respects Stargirl’s Individuality. In a well-organized essay, describe why you believe Leo struggles with sharing his true feelings during his time at MAHS. How does this inner struggle speak to the theme of Fitting In/Standing Out?

3. Using the short answer prompts, the novel, and your own research, write an essay in response to the following questions: Why do students resort to bullying their peers? What effects does bullying have on both the perpetrator as well as the victim? Reference at least 3 outside sources, in addition to the novel, to substantiate your argument.