What is a reaction paper?

A reaction paper is a student's response to something that he has read, typically for a class assignment. The student reflects on the message received from the story and demonstrates effective analysis and writing clarity.

Typically, teachers provide students with questions to ponder in writing their reactions. One type of question might center on the reader's basic reaction or feelings in response to what he reads. The teacher may also invite the student to support or argue against topics and themes presented by the author. Additional questions may relate to thoughts or feelings about particular characters or situations in the reading.