3. TCAP Writing – How to Approach the Prompt
WRITE- look at writing prompt/task 1st
THINK- what type of essay will I need to write? What will it look like?
READ (and annotate) the passages given- underline or mark text you may want to cite in your essay
THINK about the prompt and it’s connection to the reading passages
PLAN- create a list, bubble/box diagram, or flow chart that contains
essential information for writing a good essay
argument & information= thesis, claims, cited evidence, explanation
narrative- plot, setting and character description, dialogue
TIME- AT LEAST 30 min., NO MORE THAN 45 minutes MAX.

4. TCAP Writing – How to Approach the Prompt
I’ve got my plan, now what????
WRITE- think about the elements of the writing task assigned.
Do I need to remain neutral? Am I just helping the reader better understand a topic or issue, providing clarification, understanding? Do I need a thesis? Do I need to use 3C’s? = informational
Do I need to choose and convince the reader to agree with my position? Do I need to include a counterclaim? Do I need a thesis? Do I need to use 3C’s? = argument
Do I need to makeup an imaginary experience based on the passages? Do I need LOTS of paragraphs? Do I need dialogue? Do I need to use imagery to describe the setting and characters?= narrative