AP LITERATURE & COMPOSITION
U1H19
cferree@ccscambridge.org
(704)995-2043
Name: _________________________
Date: _____________________
Section: 12.1
Short Story Analysis Paper
Short Story Analysis
Assignment Sheet
Requirements:
1,000 words (about 3 pages)
6-9 uses of DRT (big DRT and baby DRT)
Typed, double spaced, size 12 font
For this first paper of the year you will write an analysis on a short story of your choice that addresses our central
Unit 1 essential question: How do the basic elements of fiction help a writer to achieve a purpose?
You will have significant autonomy on this paper, as you will be choosing the text and the topic on which you will
write. Be sure you take this autonomy seriously. Ask for help when you need it. Put serious work into each
preliminary assignment, so that when the 1st draft is due, you feel comfortable with your topic.
The Essay Question: How does one writer use the elements of fiction to develop a theme?
This means you need to know:
 What is the theme of the short story?
 What are the elements of fiction being used in this story?
 How do they connect?
Texts to Choose From:
 Vonnegut, “Harrison Bergeron”
 Baldwin, “Sonny’s Blues”
 Jackson, “The Lottery”
 Ellison, “Battle Royal”
 Faulkner, “A Rose for Emily”
Basic Elements of Fiction to Choose From (you’ll need to select at least three):
 Point of View
 Symbolism

 Characterization
 Tone
Imagery