In Class Essay Test Maus
5% of Final Mark
Please use blue or black ink. Use both sides of the paper, and double space your writing. Put
your last name and page number in the top right corner of each page. Your essay should be
approximately 600-800 words.
You have 1 hour to complete the essay. You may use the graphic novel Maus during the test.
You must use SPECIFIC references to images used in the novel to make your essay rich and
intellectual.
Art Spiegelman’s use of the graphic novel for such a tragic topic is unique. In a well-structured,
critical essay, discuss one of the following:
1. Discuss how the use of visuals contributes to our understanding of the tragedy and
suffering in the story.
2. Discuss how the use of visuals contributes to our understanding of the complexity of the
characters.
3. Discuss how the narrative structure of the story contributes to our understanding of the
relationships between the characters.
Rubric for In Class Essay – 45 marks
K/U (10 marks) – details of plot, character and theme are included; controlling idea (thesis) is
specific and demonstrates critical thinking.
T/I (20 marks) – provides intellectual analysis of details; ideas are well linked to thesis;
arguments are clearly developed using specific evidence from the text.
C (10 marks) –introduction and conclusion are very effective; topic and controlling sentences are
very effective; tone is formal; writing is smooth and uses transitions; no spelling or grammar
errors.
A (5 marks) – uses proper essay structure; quotes are integrated using MLA format; evidence of
editing.