Directions- During the Spring Semester, eighth grade ELA students are required to read one fiction novel. Students were provided TWO choices. Within your FCA textbook, Units 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 address the novel and specific skills needed while reading a fiction novel. The novel Anne of Green Gables was the textbook’s sample novel used during the lessons. Students are not to write a portfolio based on Anne of Green Gables. When students reach Unit 12, they will be asked to turn in a portfolio based on the novel they have read (Stargirl, or Shadow and Bone).

Question

*All key terms can be located at the beginning of Units 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10.
*This is NOT A SUMMARY of the novel.
*This is NOT an OPINION or REVIEW of the novel.
*This portfolio is called a LITERARY ANALYSIS.

“So, what is a literary analysis portfolio?”

Sometimes you will need to write an essay that analyzes and interprets a novel. This kind of writing is called a literary analysis. In this portfolio, you will present a thesis statement that gives your opinion/claim on ONE literary aspect of the novel’s overall literary effect.

For example:

**Your thesis may analyze/evaluate the effectiveness of the novel’s theme and how it is developed.

**Your thesis may analyze/evaluate a memorable character and how he or she grows through the novel.

**Your thesis may analyze/evaluate a setting and how it plays a role in the story.

Whatever the focus, a well-supported literary analysis presents a clear opinion about an aspect of the novel that provides the reader a broader understanding of the work.

A literary analysis portfolio has a tight focus that centers on the claim/thesis, and everything in the portfolio is directly related to this idea.

These are some questions to brainstorm when deciding as aspect of the novel to analyze/evaluate:

Consider the character types- Mentor, Hero, Trickster etc.
Consider the themes. How is it conveyed? Can readers relate?
What is most memorable about the novel? What device does the author use to create this effect?
Is the plot structured in a way that helps engage the reader?
Are the characters realistic? Are they flat and one-dimensional or are they round with depth?
Is a specific literary device used effectively? How, why?

Requirements:
A minimum of five paragraphs
In-text citations for each paraphrase or direct quote. Goal of two quotes/paraphrases per body paragraph, equaling six.
No works cited page is required as the novel has been provided by the teacher.
write it in a sentence with 5 paragraph and NO HEADSING

Answer 1

In "Stargirl" by Jerry Spinelli, the theme of individuality versus conformity is central to the novel and is effectively developed through the contrasting experiences of the protagonist, Stargirl Caraway, and her peers at Mica High School. Stargirl embodies nonconformity and authenticity, embracing her eccentricities with confidence, while the rest of her classmates initially celebrate this uniqueness but later succumb to the pressures of fitting in, highlighting the societal expectations placed on adolescents. For instance, as Stargirl’s popularity soars, she remains true to herself by singing “Happy Birthday” to classmates in the cafeteria, which brings joy but ultimately isolates her as her peers struggle between admiration of her uniqueness and their desire for social acceptance (Spinelli). This duality reflects the tension between individual expression and societal norms, a theme that resonates strongly with young adult readers navigating their own identities.

Stargirl's character arc further accentuates the theme of individuality versus conformity, as her journey illustrates both the strength and vulnerability that accompany being true to oneself. At the beginning of the novel, Stargirl’s fearlessness is her greatest asset, as she unselfconsciously displays her individuality through her quirky behavior and passion for life. However, as she seeks acceptance and attempts to conform to Mica High’s standards, she experiences a profound sense of loss and disconnection, evidenced when she alters her behavior to fit in, much to her own detriment (Spinelli). This evolution showcases the complexities of adolescent identity formation and the impact that peer pressure can have on one's self-esteem and authenticity.

The setting of Mica High School plays a critical role in reinforcing the novel’s theme, as it serves as a microcosm of the societal pressures that young people face. The high school environment, characterized by cliques and hierarchical social structures, amplifies the tension between conformity and individuality. The stark contrast between Stargirl’s vibrant self-expression and the sterile, competitive atmosphere of Mica High underscores the challenges faced by those who dare to be different. It is through this setting that readers can clearly see how Stargirl’s individuality disrupts the status quo, creating both admiration and resentment among her peers (Spinelli).

Furthermore, Spinelli employs various literary devices, such as symbolism and irony, to deepen the exploration of individuality versus conformity. Stargirl’s pet rat, who accompanies her throughout the story, symbolizes her unique perspective and refusal to conform, serving as a constant reminder of her authenticity in a world that demands uniformity (Spinelli). Ironically, just as Stargirl begins to diminish her individuality in pursuit of social acceptance, she becomes a pariah, reinforcing the idea that true belonging comes from self-acceptance rather than adherence to societal expectations. This clever use of symbolism and irony enriches the narrative and prompts readers to reflect on the costs of conformity.

Ultimately, "Stargirl" serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing one's individuality in the face of societal pressures. Through the development of its theme, character arcs, setting, and literary devices, the novel illustrates the complexities of adolescence and the internal struggles many young people encounter. By analyzing Stargirl's journey, readers are encouraged to consider the value of self-acceptance and the courage it takes to remain true to oneself in a world that often prioritizes conformity over individuality.