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Empathy Questions
Empathy Questions
English Literature
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What is it?
 Sometimes
an EMPATHY question is set on
either of the Literature texts, Blood Brothers
or To Kill a Mockingbird.
 This
means that you have to put yourself in
the position of a character and write in
their voice, while showcasing your
knowledge of the text in your own words.
(Walk in their shoes!)
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Usual forms of the question
 Imagine
you are _____________. At the end
of the story you think back over what has
happened. Write your thoughts and
feelings. Remember how__________would
speak when you write your answer.
 Imagine
you are __________. Write down
your thoughts and feelings about: the
events that were important to you; your
relationship with _______; how you feel you
have changed.
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Tips

Write in the first person

Refer to events they took part in

Root your answer in the text

Include some authentic touches where possible using the
character’s way of speaking, such as Aunt Alexandra calls
Scout by her given name, Jean Louise.
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To quote or not to quote?

It can be difficult to incorporate quotations, although it is
sometimes appropriate.

However, you should ‘echo’ the text or closely refer to
quotations.

You do not use quotation marks unless you are using direct
speech.
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Example: Atticus
I
did not really want my children using
airguns, but sometimes one has to bow to
the inevitable and I would rather they did
things with my knowledge. They can be a
wilful pair! I told them in no uncertain terms
that they must never shoot at mockingbirds,
because unlike bluejays, they don’t do any
harm. I don’t want them growing up
thinking courage is just about guns….
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Your practice task:
 Imagine
you are Atticus. Write down your
thoughts and feelings after the trial of Tom
Robinson.
 You
should plan this task for tonight’s
homework. On Friday, you will have the
opportunity to write your response in 40
minutes.
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