Writer's Choice Grade 11Unit 28:
Taking TestsOverviewEssay tests require you to use your knowledge of a given topic to produce a well-written essay in a limited amount of time. Essay tests may consist of one in-depth question or several less complex ones. If you are required to write more than one essay, apportion enough time for each. Read each question carefully. Essay test questions often use signal words to indicate the thinking process you'll need to use in your answer. Some examples of signal words include compare, contrast, analyze, explain, trace, define, summarize, and prove. After you understand the question, begin brainstorming. Determine your thesis and create a rough outline to organize main ideas and key details. Begin drafting your answer, stating your thesis in the first paragraph. Use transition words to help move smoothly from one idea to the next, and be specific: Use examples or illustrations where necessary. Spend any remaining minutes proofreading your answer or answers and making corrections neatly.
Standardized tests are given to many people under similar conditions in order to determine a standard score. The SAT, PSAT, and ACT are the most common standardized tests. The ACT measures achievement in English, math, social studies, and natural sciences. The SAT measures verbal and mathematical abilities. The PSAT is a practice test designed to predict results on the SAT; it also qualifies students for the National Merit Scholarship competition. Whatever standardized test you take, gather information about it and mail any appropriate forms or fees. Take practice exams well in advance: Don't cram for the test. Be sure you are well rested and have eaten a sustaining breakfast the morning of the test. Arrive at the testing center early with any necessary items. Read all directions carefully, and pace yourself appropriately. Skip difficult questions and return to them if you have time. Be sure your pencil marks are heavy and remain within the answer circle. Periodically check that the number of the test question matches that of your answer.
If you take practice exams, you will become familiar with the types of test items found on each exam. Antonyms and analogies are common multiple-choice vocabulary test items. Antonym test items require you to look at a capitalized word and then choose, from a list of words, one that is most nearly opposite in meaning. Analogy test items require you to identify the relationship between two words and to then find a parallel relationship in another word pair from a list. Sentence-completion test items present sentences in which critical words are missing: You must recognize the relationships between the parts of the sentence in order to choose the word or words that make the sentence grammatically and logically correct. In the reading-comprehension section of a standardized test, you will be presented with passages of varying length and difficulty and must answer questions about the passages. Usage test items and sentence-correction test items are examples of English-composition test items. Usage test items require you to recognize sentence parts that are grammatically incorrect or unclear. Sentence-correction test items require you to not only find the error in an underlined sentence part, but also to decide on the best revision to correct the error.
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