Page 5 Written Responses

Your midterm exam contains a written section.  You must respond in paragraph form with supporting detail.

These strategies will help you attack this part of your exam:

  1. Read the situation given, the instructions, and the assignment carefully and thoroughly.

    Sample Long-Answer Directions:

    Read the following passage, and then respond in paragraph form to the following long-answer question.

    You have three jobs to complete in this assignment:

      • Read a passage.
      • Answer the question.
      • Respond in paragraph form.

  1. Determine how many parts there are in the question.

    Sample Long-Answer Question:

    Discuss a situation in which a hero had an effect on your life.

    2. This long-answer question has three parts:

      • Discuss a specific situation.
      • Define the word hero.  Provide characteristics of a hero.
      • Relate the effect(s) the hero had on your life.
  2. Determine what the question requires you to do.

      • For example, if the question asks you to describe, use descriptive words to illustrate a topic.
      • If the question asks you to discuss, provide information about several important aspects of your topic.
      • If the question asks you to list, itemize as many pieces/causes/elements/etc. of the topic as you can.

  3. Answer the question(s) completely.

      • If the question asks you to include a particular number of reasons in your response, be sure to do so to get the best mark.

  4. Answer the question(s) as asked.

      • Do not change the question in some way.

Discuss a situation in which a hero had an effect on your life.


  You must describe an experience.

  You must describe a unique or uncommon person.  The person must fit the definition of a hero.  For example, if you choose a parent, how are they different from any other parent?

  You must discuss one or more effects the hero had on your life.

X You are not to discuss an ordinary person. 

X You are not to discuss multiple heroes. 

X You are not to discuss various ways to help others.

  1. Give a thorough and detailed response.

      • Reread your response to ensure you fulfilled assignment expectations.
      • Edit your spelling and writing conventions.
      • Review the Assessment criteria provided for the assignment.



  Please contact your teacher if you require more information.