1. Direct from students who know
SBA Tips and Tricks
Direct from students who know

2. Tip #1
Highlight the words in the test question that specify WHAT you must do and HOW- then re-read the question before you answer to be sure you stay on-track.

3. Tip #2
Use the highlighter or notepad to mark the readings as you read, so you can remember what you were thinking later. You can draft answers in a notepad, too. Since you can write whatever you want- why not use it?

4. Tip #3
Check the glossary, just in case. (Any word that is underlined like this- just click on it and Smarter Balanced will open the glossary for you.) Sometimes what we think a word means is not how the test is using the word!

5. Tip #4
For full writes, come up with at least 2 different options for what you will argue or how you will explain the topic BEFORE you begin drafting. This never wastes time because to choose between options, you have to think carefully about what you will say, what details/evidence you will use, etc- that always makes your writing better in the end!

6. Tip #5
No one says you have to compose your writing from start to finish, introduction to conclusion, sentence-by-sentence. Maybe you want to quote a piece of evidence first, then add a sentence before that, and only later put in an introduction or transition (once you know what your writing will say). Use the power of technology to draft the way that works best for you.

7. Grammar Assignment Due on Monday
Choose one of the grammar items with which you struggle.
Look that area up on and do the associated reading and exercises.
Write a sentence to me explaining exactly what you learned about that area of grammar.
Provide an example of your creation that demonstrates what you have learned.
If you choose something that is obviously too easy or that you already knew, I will not give you credit!