Prompt Decoder Worksheet
Prompt Analysis
7-Step Strategy
Deconstruct the prompt, map evidence, and craft a bulletproof thesis.
Name:
Date:
Topic / Text: "A Sound of Thunder" — Ray Bradbury
STEP 1 Box the Prompt & Highlight Key Words
Yellow = Action words / Central task
STAAR Extended Constructed Response
RLA Prompt
Read the selection “A Sound of Thunder.” Based on the information in the selection, write a response to the following question.
How does Eckels’s change throughout the selection contribute to the development of a theme?
Be sure to:
- clearly state a theme developed in the selection;
- explain how Eckels changes throughout the selection;
- explain how Eckels’s change contributes to the development of the theme; and
- support your response with relevant evidence from the selection.
Write your response in complete sentences and organize your ideas clearly.
STEP 2 Turn Prompt into a Question
Not a Yes/No question! Highlight the same key words.
How / Why / In what ways...?
STEP 3 Need to Know?
Target skill / text focus
Identify the:
STEP 4 Brainstorm Evidence & Thesis Ideas
STEP 5 Put a by your 2 strongest rows!
| ★ | Brainstorm the Evidence (Direct quotes or specific facts from the passage) | Brainstorm the Thesis (Possible answers, reasons, or skills connected to evidence) |
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STEP 6 Thesis Statement (AQA - Answer the Question Asked)
Combine your question rewrite + your 2 starred reasons
STEP 7
Off-Prompt Audit — Highlight the SAME key words in your thesis as in Step 1 & 2!
Keywords missing from your thesis? Stop! You might be off prompt. Adjust your claim now.
Keywords Match
Answers Prompt
2 Strong Reasons