Option 1: An example of an event-based essay question

Question

One of our points of departure for analysing Alexie’s (2007) The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is that identity is learned through experience. For example, racial and gender identities are formed through a range of social experiences. Early in the novel, Arnold Spirit reflects on his parents’ skills, talents and the achievements he believes they could have reached if they had not been poor. How do these reflections shape Arnold’s sense of his identity as an American Indian? Answer this question in the format of a formal academic essay, which means that you must present a rigorously evidenced argument. Use the following structure: First, write an introduction with a thesis statement and a road map – but without background information (around 150 words). Second, in one paragraph briefly and accurately describe the skills and talents Arnold attributes to his parents, and what he thinks they could have achieved if they had not been poor (between 100 and 200 words). Third, explain how these reflections shape Arnold’s racial identity. You must cite evidence from the novel, and you may break this part of your essay into several paragraphs (between 300 and 400 words). Finally, write a conclusion that summarises your thesis statement and the evidence you have provided in support of that thesis (around 200 words).

Answer 1

Introduction:
In Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, the protagonist Arnold Spirit reflects on his parents' unrealized potential and the impact poverty has had on their lives. This essay will explore how these reflections shape Arnold's sense of his identity as an American Indian. Through examining the skills and talents Arnold attributes to his parents and their unrealized aspirations, we can understand the role experiences of poverty play in shaping his racial identity.

Skills and Talents Arnold Attributes to His Parents:
Arnold recognizes his parents' impressive skills and talents, even though they are hindered by poverty. He describes his father as a talented singer and dancer, while his mother possesses a remarkable artistic ability. In addition to these talents, Arnold believes that his parents could have achieved greatness and fulfillment in their respective fields if they had not been burdened by poverty. He envisions his father performing on big stages, receiving standing ovations, and earning admiration from the crowd. Similarly, he imagines his mother's art being displayed in galleries, collected by wealthy individuals, and receiving critical acclaim. These dreams and aspirations showcase Arnold's belief in the untapped potential of his parents.

Shaping Arnold's Racial Identity:
These reflections on his parents' potential evoke a profound impact on Arnold's racial identity. Through his parents' talents and unfulfilled dreams, Arnold internalizes the idea that his potential, too, is compromised by their shared racial identity as American Indians. He understands that being an American Indian comes with additional challenges and obstacles, such as poverty and limited opportunities. Arnold's realization of his parents' unfulfilled potential not only shapes his self-perception but also deepens his understanding of the systemic inequalities faced by American Indians.

Furthermore, Arnold's reflections on his parents' unrealized aspirations instill a sense of responsibility in him to break the cycle of poverty and redefine his own racial identity. He sees their unfulfilled dreams as a call to action, a motivation to overcome the limitations imposed by society and achieve success in spite of his racial background. Arnold's determination to rise above his circumstances and strive for greatness is a direct result of his reflections on his parents' unfulfilled potential.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Arnold's reflections on his parents' skills, talents, and unrealized aspirations shape his identity as an American Indian. Through understanding the potential that went unfulfilled due to poverty, Arnold internalizes the challenges and systemic inequalities faced by American Indians. These reflections not only affect his self-perception but also ignite a sense of responsibility and a drive to redefine his racial identity. Arnold's journey in The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian serves as a powerful exploration of the ways in which experiences shape one's sense of identity.