Extended-Response Questions

Extended-Response and Short-Answer Questions Typically difficult for students. Each wants specific things from students. To find these requirements, look at the scoring guide…

Patterns of a Four-Point Question

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.

Extended-Response Recommendations Generally, students have a harder time responding to special keywords. Think of examples and details for each “describe, explain and compare” question. Often the difference between a score of 2 and 4 is the lack of details or support for each of these special keywords.

8 Most Often Used Keywords Clue Word Action Required Compare Show both the similarities and differences. Contrast Compare by showing differences. Criticize Give your judgment or reasoned opinion of something, illustrating its good and bad points. It is not necessary to attack it. Define Give the formal meaning by distinguishing it from related terms. This is often a matter of giving a memorized definition. Describe Write a detailed account or verbal picture in a logical sequence or story form. Discuss Describe giving the details and explaining the pros and cons of the subject. 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.

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.