Improving SA/ER March 26, 2012

Extended-Response Questions

Questions contain keywords and expect an answer for each one: Ex: Identify, describe, explain, compare, determine, list, draw, graph, give details, etc… Special keywords: Describe, explain and compare. Require more depth and detail. Worth two points since there is partial credit. If a question has only three marked keywords in a questions while it is worth four points, then there are two keywords and one special keyword that requires more attention.

When reading the question, mark all keywords When reading the question, mark all keywords. If there are fewer marked keywords than the number of points, the special keywords need extra attention. For example, instead of a quick description, a full and detailed description is needed.

Test makers do not make all questions in the same way: Questions have a mix of keywords, special keywords and subjects. The most common combinations are: Four Keywords Two Special Keywords for one Subject Two Keywords on two Subjects

Two Special Keywords for One Subject

Four Keywords

One Special Keyword for Two Subjects

Extended-Response Recommendations For Reading, Social Studies, Science and Math. Read the question carefully and completely. Underline each keyword (action words). Circle each special keyword.

8 Most Often Used Keywords Clue Word Action Required Compare Show the similarities Contrast Showing differences. Criticize Give your opinion telling the good and bad points Define Give the formal meaning. Describe Write a detailed account a logical way Discuss Describe giving the details and explain the pros and cons Explain Give reasons for. List Produce a list of words, sentences, or comments. This chart has the most common keywords used and what they are asking the student to do.

Types of Writing Question Expository Prompt Informational Prompt Persuasive Prompt Narrative Prompt Letter Writing Grades 7 to 10: For prompts that overlap grade levels, the fourth grade version is more simple.

Writing Test Recommendations You should ask yourself: Did I answer the question completely? Did I provide enough evidence or support to make my point? Was my essay organized in a logical way? Did I make good use of word choice and sentence structure? Did I proofread my essay? (fix grammar, spelling, punctuation)

Short-Answer Strategies A two-point question has two brief tasks or one detailed task Have the same keywords and special keywords as constructed response. It asks: Two keywords, or tasks. One keyword for two subjects. One special keyword about one subject.