Response/Reaction Essay
In a response or reaction essay, you share your thoughts and feelings about something you've read. In other words, you analyze and give your opinion about the work.
It's like telling a friend what you think about a book or article.
What to Write About
When writing this essay, you have four main things you can respond to:
- Theme: What do you think about the main message or idea?
- Topic: What do you think about the story?
- Characters: Did you have a connection with any of the characters?
- Writing Style: Do you lo like the way the author wrote the story?
For each of these, consider:
- What you liked or didn't like
- How it made you feel
- If it reminded you of anything in your own life
- Why you think it's important or not important in today’s world
How to Structure Your Essay
Your essay should have three main parts:
- Introduction
- Mention the author and title of what you read
- Briefly say what the story is about
- Tell the reader which aspect(s) you're reacting to (theme, topic, characters, or writing style)
- Give your overall opinion
- Main Body paragraphs (usually 3)
- Summarize the main points of what you read
- Share your thoughts and feelings about the aspect(s) you chose to focus on
- You can discuss all four aspects or just one or two that really struck you
- Conclusion
- Brings the reader back to your reaction
- Restates your arguments
- States the wider significance of this work
Remember, the goal is to share your personal opinion on what you've read, whether it's about the theme, topic, characters, writing style, or a combination of these. There's no right or wrong answer - it's all about your reaction!