ESL CLASS EXAMINATION OF READING AND WRITING PROFICIENCY

 prompt (n.) - a symbol or message informing the user that some input is required  Read the prompt carefully. Do not skim it.  Number the questions that you are to answer.  Answer all of the questions in the order asked.

 Be an active reader. Focus on the ideas. Don’t stop for new vocabulary!  Think of the prompt questions.  Read the title, beginning, and end of the article.  Quickly skim for the gist.  Read and number answers as you find them.

 Circle the topic.  Underline the thesis statement if you can find it.  Mark answers as you find them. Use the same numbers as the prompt questions.  Circle names/words you want to use.

 Create pre-writing outline a.Topic b.Thesis statement c.Think: How many points of view 1. 1 st point with support a) solution? 2. 2 nd point with support a) solution? d. Your opinion: Jot down some ideas of how you agree or disagree.

 Introduction should include: ◦ Introduction of general topic ◦ _______________________ ◦ Author’s Name ◦ ________________________

 If there are two points of view, how many paragraphs would you use?  If they are opposite ideas, what transitions can/should/could be used?  If specific people, countries, companies are names, should you use them? If not, why?

 Must relate to the article and the opinions therein.  Only place in the essay that you may use “I.”  Use transitions: first (2 nd, etc), in addition, similarly, however, on the other hand)

 Conclude with a final statement.  May be part of your opinion paragraph.  There should be a conclusion signal such as ◦ All in all, ◦ ________________, ◦ In conclusion, ◦ _________________;

 Leave at least 5 minutes to check grammar!  The EAR is an extremely important part of your score.  Focus on types of errors you usually make first.

 Prompt 2-3 minutes  Read and mark 10 minutes  Organize5-7 minutes  Write25 minutes  Edit5-7 minutes 50 minutes