STUDY GUIDE: 2nd Six Weeks Exam
English IV AP / Mrs. Ramos
Exam Date:
Overview
The second six weeks exam will be a timed essay covering all of Grendel by John Gardner. You will be
allowed to use your book.
You will need to demonstrate the following:
 A thorough understanding of the plot, characters, conflicts, symbols, themes present in the text.
 Your own concepts about the meaning of the book.
 Connections between the novel and the larger world (through philosophy, allusion, etc.)
Sample Essay Questions for Grendel
Your exam will include two essay topics and you will choose one. The first topic is “easier”, so the
grading on it will be more rigid. The second topic will be more challenging. Your grade will come from
your choice of topic, the structure of your essay and the depth of understanding you are able to show with
your response.
1. In literary pieces, minor characters contribute significantly to the total work. They often have
particular functions, such as instruments in the plot, foils to the main characters, commentators on the
action and theme, and the like. Write a well-organized essay showing how one such minor character
functions in Grendel.
2. Some works of literature use the element of time in a distinct way. The chronological sequence of
events may be altered, or time may be suspended / accelerated. Using Grendel, show how the author’s
manipulation of time contributes to the effectiveness of the work as a whole. Do not merely
summarize the plot.
3. Consider this quotation from Grendel: “Balance is everything.” Keeping that in mind, what might the
Grendel symbolize? What might the humans symbolize? Explain your answers in light of the
quotation and with convincing support from the novel.
4. John Gardner said, “One of the most exciting things in a great work of art is that it makes the reader
realize things he didn’t know before—about himself and the world”. Given the author’s own
definition, so you think Grendel is a ‘great work of art’? Support your opinion with solid evidence
and reasoning.
Scoring
 Superficial essays will not earn a passing grade. Superficial = repeating ideas presented in class,
vague comments, sweeping generalizations.
 The AP rubric will be used for these essays (please see reverse).
9 = 100 %
8 = 95
7 = 90
6 = 80
5 = 70
4 = 60
3 = 50
2 = 40
1 = 30