The Short Analytical Response A How-To Guide

What is a SAR? SAR=Short Answer Response A SAR directly answers a question, provides text evidence to prove the point, and includes connecting commentary that explains how the text evidence supports the assertion.

Two Main Requirements All short answer responses require: A thesis– A direct answer to the prompt. Answer with only ONE answer or thesis point. Text evidence – a quote or two from the passage that helps prove your thesis(EMBEDDED) The answer (thesis) and the text evidence must “match.” In other words, your quotation should not only directly relate to your thesis, but it should also be the strongest piece of evidence from the text that supports your answer!

0 Insufficient This response is too vague to understand; it’s unclear. -or- This response fails to give any textual evidence. (a quotation that directly supports thesis) This response makes an interpretation not found in the text. This response is just a plot summary.

1 Partially Sufficient This response only gives a thesis. -or- This response only gives textual evidence and fails to answer the question. There is no clear connection between the thesis and the evidence.

2 Sufficient This response answers the question with a thesis and gives appropriate evidence (quote that directly supports the thesis). The connection between the thesis and the evidence (quote) is clear.

3 Exemplary Everything a “2” has PLUS: Particularly insightful answer answers the question with a thesis gives appropriate evidence (quote) clear connection between thesis and quote PLUS: Particularly insightful answer Embedded quotations Exceptional vocabulary

Exemplars Let’s look at some score point 2 and 3 SARs. Students read “The Sniper,” then they wrote a SAR answering the following prompt: How does the author develop the protagonist’s character in the short story “The Sniper”?

Exemplar #1

Exemplar #1: Score Point 2 Rationale Text evidence is accurate and relevant. This writer uses a combination of direct quotation, synopsis, and commentary to prove that the sniper is a “fanatic” of war. Goes beyond a literal reading of the text. For example, the text never states that the sniper has been dehumanized, but the writer makes that inference in their response. The combination of the idea and evidence demonstrates a good understanding of the text.

Exemplar #2

Exemplar #2: Score Point 3 Rationale This student was able to develop a coherent explanation of the idea by connecting the sniper’s actions to his attitude. The text evidence is specific and well-chosen. The phrase “take the risk” directly relates to the characterization this student has chosen to describe.

Exemplars Continued Students were also given another prompt over “The Sniper,” which was: What imagery does the author use to convey a sense of danger?

Exemplar #3

Exemplar #3: Score Point 2 Rationale This student provides a clear and direct answer to the question. The text evidence is relevant and supports the student’s point. The student fails to provide commentary connecting their ideas and evidence.

Exemplar #4

Exemplar #4: Score Point 3 Rationale The student’s idea is perceptive and reflects an awareness of the complexities a text about war. For example, this student explains that the imagery develops the “ominous climate” of the setting. This student makes keen observations across the text, connecting the nighttime setting and the roaring of guns to the idea of danger. This student’s response demonstrates an advanced ability to fluidly integrate answer, evidence, and commentary.

Now it’s your turn! How does the author develop the protagonist’s character in “Where Have You Gone, Charming Billy”?