Answering Language Arts Literacy/Math Multiple Choice Questions
1. Each question is worth one point.
2. You are not penalized for guessing. Do not leave an answer blank!
3. Try to eliminate incorrect choices to help select the best answer.
4. Remember to look back at the story for Language Arts; Remember
to use the math reference sheet for measuring and formulas.
Answering Reading Open-ended Questions (3 paragraphs)
1. Reword the question to create your topic sentence. This helps
you to focus and lets the scorer know what you are writing about.
2. Make sure to write 4-6 sentences in each paragraph including
supporting sentences from the two bullets.
3. Close your open-ended response with a concluding sentence similar
to your topic sentence.
4. Use information and examples from the text.
5. Even if you can’t answer completely, make an attempt.
6. These questions are scored from 0-4 points. Therefore, a partial
answer can earn you some points.
Answering Math Open-ended Questions
1. Read the questions carefully.
2. Make sure to show all your work.
3. Try to give a written explanation. Labeled diagrams can be included.
4. As with the reading open-ended, if you can’t answer completely,
make an attempt.
5. These questions are worth 0-3 points. Therefore a partial answer
can earn you some points.
The HSPA Persuasive Essay/Letter (holistic scoring, 0-6)
1. Time line for an hour essay:
10 minutes to make a web/outline/list/brainstorming,
40 minutes to write the essay,
10 minutes to revise and edit, using the Writer’s Checklist.
2. Take examples from your life, use your imagination, and/or cite
magazine and newspapers to support your ideas. Be specific.
3. Make sure to use supporting details, transition words and vary
your sentences.
4. To organize a five-paragraph essay/letter include: an introduction
with a preview sentence as last sentence, 3 body paragraphs, and
a conclusion.
5. Each paragraph should have at least 4 sentences, beginning with
a clear topic sentence and ending with a summary sentence.
6. Limit your sentences to no more than 10-12 words.
7. Pick a side and stay focused on the issues.
8. Revise and edit your essay using the Writer’s Checklist.
Speculative Writing (Picture Prompt) - Thirty minutes (holistic
scoring, 0-6)
1. Speculate means “to guess.” Use your imagination
and experiences to tell a story or describe what is happening.
2. Organize essay into a three-paragraph story: a beginning, middle
and end or a before, during and after.
3. Write about mood, people, objects, events, messages revealed
using precise words.
4. Try to relate the picture to any story, novel, television show,
or movie you have seen.
5. Revise and edit your story using the Writer’s Checklist.
