1. Open-Ended Responses and essays
Created by the CHS English Department

2. A.P.E Method
First, you must answer the question and create a thesis statement.
This should include the question and proof that supports your answer
Example:
In the excerpt from Night by Elie Weisel, what devices (imagery, detail, and diction) are used to convey the tone?
Thesis: In the excerpt from Night by Elie Weisel, images and details of the smell and the Jews on the train to Auschwitz create a tone of fear and uncertainty.

3. Proof: Textual evidence
Next, you must provide textual evidence as proof for your thesis.
You need 3 pieces of textual evidence from the story. Textual evidence is word for word from the story.
Example:
For instance, after they board the train “the doors were nailed, the way back irrevocably cut off.” During the trip “the stench and the lack of air was suffocating.” Finally, as they arrive at the concentration camp, “the smell of burning flesh filled the air.”
The red parts indicate textual evidence to support the thesis.

4. Explain: You must conclude your answer
This sentence brings your focus back to the question .
Example:
All these images create dread and fear for the passengers and the readers.

5. Correct open-ended response:
In the excerpt from Night by Elie Weisel, images and details of the smell and the Jews on the train to Auschwitz create a tone of fear and uncertainty. For instance, after they board the train “the doors were nailed, the way back irrevocably cut off.” During the trip “the stench and the lack of air was suffocating.” Finally, as they arrive at the concentration camp, “the smell of burning flesh filled the air.” All these images create dread and fear for the passengers and the readers.

6. Make sure you follow the A.P.E Method
Answer the questions and form your thesis
Prove your thesis with at least 3 pieces of textual evidence
Explain and connect the text evidence to the answer