Write a well-developed argumentative essay in which you argue that Andy Weir uses the relationship between Ryland Grace and Rocky to suggest that genuine human progress — scientific, moral, or civilizational — is only achievable through radical cooperation across differences.

Your essay should:

• Present a clear, defendable thesis that goes beyond simply summarizing the plot
• Reference at least three specific scenes or moments from the novel as evidence
• Analyze how Weir employs narrative techniques such as characterization, structure (including Grace's recovered memories), dialogue, and tone to develop this theme
• Acknowledge and respond to a counterargument (for instance, that individual ingenuity, not cooperation, is the novel's true heroic ideal)
• Conclude by linking the novel's thematic argument to a broader human question: What do we owe to others when the stakes are civilization itself?

Scoring Guidance (for teacher use)

| Score | Descriptor | |-------|-----------| | 4 | Thesis is specific and arguable; evidence is well-chosen and thoroughly analyzed; counterargument is meaningfully engaged; prose is clear and controlled | | 3 | Thesis is present and defensible; evidence is relevant with some analysis; counterargument acknowledged but not fully developed | | 2 | Thesis is vague or partially supported; evidence is mostly summary; little counterargument engagement | | 1 | No clear thesis; evidence is absent or irrelevant; response is mostly retelling |

Write a well-organized argumentative essay in which you argue how Andy Weir portrays the relationship between Ryland Grace and Rocky to suggest that cooperation and mutual vulnerability are more vital to problem-solving than individual brilliance. Use at least three specific scenes or passages from the novel to back up your argument, and consider at least one counterargument.

Guidance

Suggested length: 4–6 paragraphs | MLA or Chicago citation format

• Introduction: Set the stage by briefly outlining the stakes of the novel (the Astrophage threat) and present your thesis regarding cooperation versus individual genius.
• Body Paragraphs: Examine particular instances of collaboration — think about scenes like the initial communication breakthrough with Rocky, the joint scientific experiments conducted aboard the Hail Mary, and the critical sacrifices each character contemplates making for the other.
• Counterargument: Recognize instances where Grace's individual expertise or intuition propels progress, then clarify why the narrative ultimately portrays these moments as insufficient without partnership.
• Conclusion: Relate your argument to a broader thematic assertion about what Weir indicates science — and humanity — needs to survive an existential crisis.