Here are some sample text dependent generic questions for discussing literary texts with individuals, small groups, and the whole class. This is not a complete list, by any means, but the questions can serve as an example and help you phrase more questions for the Reading Literature Standards.
Key Ideas and Details - Standards 1, 2, and 3
- Retell what the story is about so far.
- Describe the characters, setting.
- What do you know about the characters, setting, problem from this text?
- Explain the problem.
- How does the main character change?
- Why did the character act the way he did?
- How did the main character interact with the other characters?
- Compare the way two characters viewed or reacted to a situation.
- Who is the narrator?
- What is the message the author wants you to get from this text? How do you know?
- What did the character do to cause/solve the problem?
- What lesson did ______ learn?
- How does the setting impact the story?
Craft and Structure - Standards 4, 5, and 6
- What does this word mean based on the context?
- What words let you know how the author feels about _______?
- Where is an example of a metaphor, simile, figurative language, etc.? Why did the author use that device?
- Identify the text type.
- What characteristics of this genre are present?
- Why do you think the author chose this genre?
- How does the narrator's point of view affect the way the events are told in this story?
- How does this version of the story compare to other versions you have read?
- Why did the author choose these words when describing _______?
- What is the tone of this story?
Integration of Knowledge and Ideas - Standards 7, 8, and 9
- How do the illustrations contribute to your understanding of this story?
- How does this story compare to _______?
- How are character 1 and character 2 the same? Different?
- What is the narrator's point of view of the events?
- How does the narrator's point of view influence how the events in this story are described?
