Testing Success

Lots of students get nervous when they have to take tests. It's natural. Use these tips to be at your best on the day of the big test.

Before the test…

	Be prepared for the test by paying attention in class and doing your homework each day.
	Review your notes, homework, and books as you study for the test.
	Get a good night's sleep the night before.
	Eat a healthy breakfast the day of the test.

Take the test…

	Listen to your teacher and read all of the directions on the test.
	Read each question carefully.
	When you are done, check your work.

After the test…

	Review any questions you missed.
	Reflect on how you can do even better next time.

Analyzing a Prompt

To effectively respond to a prompt, you must first understand it. Try using the STRAP questions to analyze a prompt:

Subject: What topic should I write about?

Type: What form of writing should I create?

Role: What position should I assume as the writer?

Audience: Who is the intended reader?

Purpose: What is the goal of my writing?

Different Types of Writing Test Prompts Ask for Different Information:

Narrative prompts ask you to write about a personal experience.

An expository prompt asks you to write an explanation.

A persuasive prompt asks you to state an opinion and defend it.

A response to literature prompt asks you to write about a specific aspect of a story, poem, novel, or nonfiction selection.

The SAT®

Are you ready for the SAT®? The College Board, the publisher of the SAT® offers free SAT® test taking tips, links to registering for the SAT®, as well as information about picking the right college. Go to www.collegeboard.com.

Students— Read the winning short story!

Use the glossary to help find the meaning of literary words and writing terms that will help you think and talk about writing.

To edit your writing well, you need to understand the rules. This library of quick, animated grammar lessons...