1. Essential Question Outcome 4

2. Essential Question The EQ is based on the ideas presented by the
author to the reader.
These “ideas” can be seen as the “themes” in
the story or article.

3. How to Develop an Essential Question
Before writing the EQ determine the “themes” or
“big ideas” in the text.
Turn the “theme” or “big idea” into an open
ended question.
An open ended question is a question that can have
multiple answers and different perspectives.
The question should be open to debate.

4. Step 1 – Themes/Big Ideas
Text: Little Red Riding Hood
Themes or Big Ideas:
Example: Parenting

5. Step 2 – Write an open ended question
Example1:
Theme: Parenting
EQ: How do parents know when their children are
ready to be out on their own?
Example 2:
EQ: What is good parenting?

6. How to answer an Essential Question
The EQ should be answered and supported
through research. (articles, websites, blogs…)
Opinion may be used IF appropriate.
The EQ may have multiple answers and perspectives.

7. What an Essential Question is not
The EQ should NOT be referring to a specific
character or specific even in the text.
Someone who did not read the same text should
still be able to answer your EQ.

8. Assignment
Meet in a small group and choose a movie. Then find 2 themes presented in the story.
Write 1 essential question for each theme.
We will present our questions to the class.
Lastly, in your group create 2 themes and 2 essential questions for the chapter you have been assigned.