Prompt 01
Essay task
Common Core ElaMiddle School Ela
In Where the Red Fern Grows, Billy Colman's journey to earn and train his two hound dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann, ultimately teaches him profound lessons about love, perseverance, and loss. Argue that Billy's bond with his dogs is the key element through which he transitions from boyhood to adulthood, showing how the sacrifices he makes and the grief he experiences are vital to his coming-of-age.
In your essay, be sure to
- Develop a clear, arguable thesis that goes beyond just summarizing the plot.
- Use at least three specific pieces of textual evidence (quotes or detailed scene references) to back up your claim.
- Analyze how Rawls employs literary devices such as symbolism (e.g., the red fern), foreshadowing, and imagery to enhance the theme of growth through hardship.
- Address a counterargument: some readers may contend that Billy's losses leave him broken rather than matured — refute or complicate this perspective.
- Conclude by reflecting on the universal significance of Billy's experience for readers today.
Scoring Focus
Thesis strength, quality of textual evidence and analysis, counterargument engagement, and clarity of writing.
Suggested length
4–6 paragraphs (approximately 600–900 words)