1. Exploring possible topics for FCAT prompts Start with a topic Let’s say after-school jobs What kind of an expository prompt could possibly be asked on FCAT? After-school jobs have benefits or After-school jobs have detriments

2. Exploring possible topics for FCAT prompts If you were asked to explain the benefits, how many ideas can you think of? you earn spending money you learn responsibility you meet new people you learn time management you learn new skills etc.

3. Exploring possible topics for FCAT prompts Consider which ideas you could really elaborate on: you earn spending money you learn responsibility you meet new people you learn time management you learn new skills Now create your elaboration.

4. Exploring possible topics for FCAT prompts Let’s go back to the original topic of after-school jobs. What could be a possible persuasive prompt? Your parents/guardians don’t want you to have an after-school job. Convince them to agree with you that you should have a job.

5. Exploring possible topics for FCAT prompts Go back to the original ideas for an expository prompt on after-school jobs. Which of them can be used in a persuasive essay? you earn spending money you learn responsibility you meet new people you learn time management you learn new skills

6. Exploring possible topics for FCAT prompts With a persuasive essay, you will need to consider the person or group that is identified in the prompt. What arguments would be best used to convince that person or group? you earn spending money you learn responsibility you meet new people you learn time management you learn new skills

7. Exploring possible topics for FCAT prompts A good way to start your persuasive essay is to frame it like a letter. That gives you a “picture” of your reader. Then you must tell your reader what your position on the issue is. Finally, you must tell the reader what you want him to do or believe.

8. Exploring possible topics for FCAT prompts Dear Mom and Dad, I’ve been thinking about what you said about my getting a job after-school. I want you to know that I think I should be able to get a job because it will give me the money I need for school activities. I think that an after-school job will also teach me how to budget my time. School activities can be very pricey. For instance, next month I have to order a class ring. According to the ring company, it will cost...................................

9. Exploring possible topics for FCAT prompts As you explore several topics, always try to link the topic to what you know. When you write about what you know, you can go into great detail (elaboration!). Use a letter format for persuasive essays. Anecdotes, whether true or fictional, make it relatively easy to prove a point. Be sure to use a good transition to start the anecdote, such as “For example” or “For instance.”