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Prompt 01

Essay task

AP LiteratureCommon CoreGCSEAQA

In The Fault in Our Stars, John Green explores the idea that the worth of a life isn't determined by how long it lasts, but by the richness of the connections and meanings it holds. Using specific examples from the novel, write a well-structured essay arguing how Hazel Grace Lancaster's changing relationship with Augustus Waters either challenges or supports her initial belief that loving others is cruel due to the pain that loss inevitably brings. Think about how Green employs literary devices like metaphor, symbolism, and characterization to enhance this central theme.

Prompt 02

Essay task

AP LiteratureCommon Core ElaIB Language & LiteratureGCSE English

In The Fault in Our Stars, John Green presents the idea that the value of a life is determined not by its duration but by the strength of its connections and the significance one forges while confronting mortality. Drawing on evidence from the novel, write a well-organized essay that explores how Hazel Grace Lancaster's changing relationship with Augustus Waters either challenges or supports her belief that loving others poses an "unnecessary" risk for those who are terminally ill. Your essay should analyze at least two of the following literary elements to bolster your main argument:

  • Characterization – In what ways do Hazel and Augustus's personalities and decisions illustrate their contrasting views on life and legacy?
  • Symbolism – How does Green utilize recurring symbols (such as the oxygen tank, cigarettes, and An Imperial Affliction) to advance the novel's key themes?
  • Narrative Voice – How does Hazel's first-person narration influence the reader's perception of love, loss, and identity?
  • Allusion & Intertextuality – In what ways does the fictional novel-within-a-novel An Imperial Affliction serve as a thematic reflection of the characters' experiences?

Requirements

  • A clearly articulated thesis that presents an arguable claim
  • Textual evidence with appropriate citations (chapter or page references)
  • Analysis of at least two literary elements
  • Acknowledgment and rebuttal of a counterargument
  • A minimum of 5 paragraphs (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion)

Prompt 03

Essay task

AP LiteratureCommon Core ElaIB English

In The Fault in Our Stars, John Green presents the idea that the value of a life isn't determined by its duration but by the meaningful connections we create during it. Write a well-structured essay that discusses how Hazel Grace Lancaster's evolving relationship with Augustus Waters either challenges or confirms her belief that loving someone is an “unnecessary” risk when facing terminal illness. Use specific evidence from the novel and explore how Green employs literary devices like symbolism, characterization, and dialogue to enhance this central theme.

Directions

  • Your essay must feature a clear, debatable thesis statement.
  • Support your argument with at least three pieces of textual evidence.
  • Address and counter at least one opposing viewpoint.
  • Your essay should be 4–6 paragraphs long.

Guiding Questions to Consider Before Writing

  • In what ways does Hazel refer to herself as a "grenade," and how does this metaphor influence her decisions?
  • How does Augustus's belief in leaving a mark on the world both contrast with and complement Hazel's perspective?
  • By the conclusion of the novel, has Hazel shifted her views on love and vulnerability? Use evidence to back up your response.

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