Constructed Response Strategies: ACES HE2

ACES A = address/answer the question C = cite quoted evidence from the text E = explain your examples in detail S = sum it up

Potential Structures ACES ACECES ACCEES

A The first sentence should address/restate the prompt and give a specific, clear answer to the question. Possible FORMULA: In (author’s) (genre) (title), ANSWER EXAMPLE: In Shakespeare’s tragedy Romeo an Juliet, the dominant theme of . . .

C Your second sentence should cite evidence by quoting examples from the source and including an intext citation. Use linking or contrasting transitions for each example (For Instance, Additionally, Likewise, however, conversely, etc.)

E For the third sentence, answer "So What?“ or explain what this example proves or demonstrates. Do NOT paraphrase the text. Often you must analyze the effects of the example in your explanation. Consider “because” statements or “when” statements. Example: Because the author utilizes such negative connotations in the words “cruel” and “discriminatory,” the tone . . .

S Add a concluding fourth sentence that summarizes your response to the prompt without repeating yourself. Use a persuasive transition to conclude. If you can link your topic thematically, always opt for this choice. EXAMPLE: With his positive connotations and focus on hope, Williamson is able to hint towards his message of . . .

Other Hints NO! YES! Do not use contractions (won’t, couldn’t, isn’t) Do not use First or Second Person Point of View (I, we, our, my, you, your) Avoid an informal tone (“cause” instead of because, “tons of” instead of “many,” “like how he says”) YES! Use the author, poet, or playwright’s name if given when writing your response. Reread your response to make sure that it makes sense and edit it.

A Sample ACES Question How does the author’s purpose in the story affect the tone? Explain with two specific, quoted examples.