how to write a persuasive essay for the staar test

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• ​Stephanie Savicki
• Feb 7, 2019

Tips for Tackling the STAAR Persuasive Essay

The clock is ticking and your hand is cramping. You have limited time and space to convince your reader of your opinion. No, you aren’t arguing in your BFF group text—You’re writing your STAAR persuasive essay!

Previously on our B2A Blog , we’ve given you guidance on how to tackle State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) expository essays. But what about persuasive essays? Preparing for these English II-level STAAR writing tests will also help you prepare for similar timed writing tests in the future, such as in-class assignments and the SAT or ACT Essay.

Building a tight skillset to effectively produce a persuasive five-paragraph essay will serve you throughout high school. Given that the STAAR essay only allows you to fill one 26-line page, you can even condense this down to four paragraphs: an intro, two strong body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Given the multifaceted purpose of the STAAR persuasive essay, an efficient essay that features arguments and nuance will be the winning combination.

So, how do you follow this formula successfully and score that perfect 4 on the STAAR written composition? Luckily, most of our tips for the STAAR expository essay still apply to the persuasive essay: You’ll want to pre-write (brainstorm and draft an outline), edit as you go and upon re-reading your work, and have solid supporting examples and go in-depth with them.

But what does that look like for the persuasive essays? All STAAR essays are graded on the same three domains: Organization/Progression, Development of Ideas, and Use of Language/Conventions. However, the details within this rubric are a bit different for argumentative essays.

STAAR Persuasive Essay: Development of Ideas

To get a coveted 4 in this domain, your development of ideas will need to be “highly effective.” This means your argument will need to be compelling and your reader will need to be convinced by your well-chosen and specific reasons and evidence. Your essay will also need to be “thoughtful and engaging.”

What the graders are also looking for here is nuance. They want to see you not only support your argument with sound reasoning, but also acknowledge the complexity of the issue, consider opposing perspectives, integrate your own unique experiences, or connect ideas in a fresh or interesting way.

You can achieve this by integrating one (or more!) of these aspects into your two body paragraphs, or even by creating a third body paragraph for this purpose. But how do you decide what goes into a body paragraph? Let’s find out!

How to Decide What Goes into a Body Paragraph

The very first thing you need to do after carefully reading the prompt is brainstorm. Think about the complex issue presented. Brainstorm arguments both FOR and AGAINST the issue.

Then, write out the logical reasoning behind each argument. Which side do you feel you can best argue? This will be your position, which you will make clear in your thesis. Which ideas can you expand upon most? Each reason will correspond to a body paragraph in your essay, so you’ll want to pick the two for which you can articulate the strongest support. Think about which idea (or both!) could work to highlight the nuance we mentioned above: acknowledging a counter argument or the issue’s complexity, relating to your own experiences, or presenting an unconventional take.

Now that you’ve honed in on your choices, let’s get into where to present them in your essay.

STAAR Persuasive Essay: Organization/Progression

In order to get full marks in Organization/Progression on the persuasive essay, you’ll need to focus on two aspects: structure and flow.

Structure: by organizing your essay in a clear and logical way (i.e., by following the four- or five-paragraph essay formula), your grader will be able to clearly understand your position, follow your ideas, and easily digest your supporting details.

Flow: by following a straightforward structure and utilizing meaningful transitions, you’ll be able to maintain focus throughout your essay and cohesion in your points—achievements your grader will notice and appreciate.

So, how do we do this?

Introduction Paragraph

Your introductory paragraph serves two key purposes: to introduce the topic and to assert your position clearly. You’ll want to open with what we call a “hook.” Pull the reader in by asking them a big picture question that will make them consider the issue.

For example, if the prompt ends with “Should schools require students to wear uniforms?” and you’re arguing against them due to their limitations on expression, your hook might be, “Have you ever struggled to stand out?”

Then, provide context. What is the issue articulated in the prompt? Explain the background, then hone in on your thesis. To write your thesis, you’ll want to turn the position question into a statement, ending it with your answer incorporating your main supporting points.

For our school uniform example, your thesis could be this: “Schools should not require students to wear uniforms because it restricts developmentally necessary personal expression and does not meaningfully curb bullying.”

Body Paragraphs

As we mentioned, your body paragraphs will be where you individually articulate and support your main points mentioned in your thesis. Each body paragraph should start with a topic sentence that clearly states your point (and, if possible, provides meaningful transition from the previous paragraph).

Then, provide one to three sentences supporting your point. (Why do uniforms stifle expression? Why does that matter?) Finally, finish each body paragraph with a concluding sentence, reiterating your point and connecting it back to your thesis.

Using the uniform example, you could say this as your concluding sentence: "Because of their critical limitations on personal expression, youth should not be mandated to wear school uniforms."

One way to satisfy the “nuance” requirement is to have a body paragraph that features a counter argument. The purpose of this is to show that you understand there are other sides to the issue AND that you can refute them with your sound logic.

In our uniform example, your counter-argument paragraph could first say, “While they acknowledge that uniforms prevent self-expression, proponents claim that these strict dress codes reduce bullying. However, …” Once you’ve articulated your arguments against that claim, you’d similarly connect your point back to your thesis: uniforms don’t prevent bullying, and thus should not be mandated.

Your conclusion can and should be concise; it will likely be your shortest paragraph. First, reiterate your thesis statement. You don’t want to repeat it word-for-word; paraphrase your point and vary your sentence structure. Then, you’ll want to remind the reader of your supporting details and nuance, call them to action, and conclude with a succinct remark that helps remind the reader why your argument matters. Ideally, this will connect back to your hook.

For our school uniforms example, you may end your essay with a reminder that students don’t just go to school to learn, but to grow as people—and learning how to express themselves is a key part of that.

STAAR Persuasive Essay: Use of Language/Conventions

Finally, something you’ll want to make sure you’re doing all along in your essay is choosing your words purposefully and precisely. Vary your sentence structure, adeptly use strong vocab words, and maintain an appropriate tone. Mind your grammar and spelling; minor errors may be overlooked, but anything distracting from the essay’s flow or clarity will cost you. This is where re-reading your work comes in handy.

Always go back and read (Don’t skim! Read “out loud” in your head.) your entire essay, micro-editing as you go. Once you’ve verified you’ve checked all the boxes and have finished polishing—congrats! You’ve conquered the STAAR persuasive essay.

Want personalized guidance on how to approach the STAAR essays (or any section of the STAAR test)? Contact us for a free consultation. We’ll connect you with a tutor to help you address how best to prepare for these state exams and even strategize for the future.

For help with general writing, test taking, or college readiness, check out our many services , including 1:1 college admissions counseling. We can help make sure you’re on track for your goals inside, outside, and beyond school!

解决STAAR(德克萨斯学术准备状况评估)说服性文章的技巧

Translated by Nikki Qiao

准备这些英语II级STAAR写作测试会将帮助你准备将来类似的定时写作考试，例如课堂作业和SAT或ACT论文。

建立一个严谨的可以让你有效地写出有说服力的五段落文章的技能，将在整个高中为你服务。鉴于STAAR论文只允许你填写一个26行的页面，你甚至可以将它缩减为四段：一个引言段落，两个有力的正文段落和一个结论。鉴于STAAR说服性文章的多方面目的，一篇以论证和细微差别为特征的高效论文将成为优秀的论文。

我们对STAAR说明文的大部分的建议是：你需要预先编写（认真思考和起草大纲），随时编辑，重新阅读你的写作，并运用有力的支持性例子和深入编辑它们。

但对于有说服力的论文，这看起来是什么样的？所有STAAR论文都在相同的三个领域进行评分：组织/进展，思想发展和语言/标点符号的使用。然而，这个题目中的细节对于论证性文章来说有点不同。

STAAR有说服力的论文：思想的发展

要想在这个领域获得梦寐以求的4，你的想法发展将需要是“非常有效的”。这意味着你的论点需要是引人入胜的，你的读者需要被你精心挑选的具体理由和证据所说服。你的论文还需要是“深思熟虑的和有吸引力的”。

评分者在这里寻找的是细微差别。他们希望你不仅能够通过合理的推理来支持你的论点，还会认识到问题的复杂性，考虑反对观点，结合你自己独特的经历， 或以新鲜有趣的方式结合你的想法。

你可以通过将这些方面中的一个（或多个）运用到你的两个正文段落中，或者甚至通过为此目的而创建的第三个正文段落来实现此目的。但是你如何决定正文段落的内容呢？我们来看看吧！

如何决定什么进入正文段落

仔细阅读提示后，您需要做的第一件事就是先想想所提出的复杂问题。仔细想想支持和反对这个问题的论点。

然后，写出每个论点背后的逻辑推理。 你认为哪一方最能胜辩呢？ 这将是你的立场，你将在论文中阐明。 你可以扩展哪些想法？ 每个理由都与你论文中的正文段落相对应，所以你要选择两个可以表达最强支持的部分。 想想哪个（或两个！）可以突出我们上面提到的细微差别：提出一个与你自己的经历有关的反驳论点或问题的复杂性，或提出非常规的看法。

现在你已经做出了你的选择，让我们进入如何在你的论文中呈现它们。

STAAR有说服力的论文：组织/进展

为了在有说服力的文章中获得组织/进展的满分，你需要关注两个方面：结构和流畅度。

结构：通过以清晰合理的方式组织你的论文（即遵循四段或五段论文公式），你的评分员将能够清楚地了解你的立场，跟随你的想法，并轻松地消化你的支撑细节。

流畅度：通过遵循简单的结构并运用有意义的过渡，你将能够在整个文章中保持你的重点，并在你的论点中坚持你的论点 - 你的评分者将会注意到并欣赏你的成就。

您的介绍性段落有两个主要目的：介绍主题并明确表明你的立场。你要用我们称之为“钩子”的方式打开。通过向读者询问一个能让他们考虑问题的宏观问题来拉动读者。

例如，如果论文问题以“学校是否应该要求学生穿制服？”结束，并且你在由于他们的表达限制来反对他们，你的钩子可能是，“你是否曾经为了脱颖而出而挣扎过？”

然后，提供上下文。论文问题中明确的问题是什么？解释背景，然后针对你的论点。要撰写论文，你需要将问题转化为观点，并以你的答案结合你的主要支持论点结束。

对于我们校服的例子，你的论文可能是这样的：“学校不应该要求学生穿校服，因为它限制了个人发展性的表达，并没有有意义地抑制学校霸凌。”

正如我们所提到的，你的正文段落将是你个人表达并支持你论文中提到的要点的地方。每个正文段落应以一个主题句开头，该主题句应该清楚地表明你的观点（并且，如果可能，提供从前一段开始的有意义的过渡）。

然后，提供支持你观点的一到三句话。 （为什么制服会扼杀表达？为什么这很重要？）最后，用一个结尾的句子完成每个段落，重申你的观点并将其与你的论文联系起来。

使用统一的例子，你可以说这是你的结论性句子：“由于他们对个人表达的严重限制，年轻人不应该被要求穿校服。”

满足“细微差别”要求的一种方法是运用具有反向驳点的正文段落。这样做的目的是表明你了解问题的其他方面，并且你可以用你的逻辑来反驳它们。

你的结论可以而且应该简明扼要;它可能是你最短的一段。首先，重申你的论文陈述。你不想一字一句地重复它;解释你的观点并使你的句子结构有多样性。然后，你需要提醒读者你的支持细节和细微差别，请他们采取行动，并以简洁的评论结束，以帮助提醒读者你的论点为何重要。理想情况下，这将与你的钩子相呼应。

对于我们校服的例子，你可以以提醒学生不是只去学校学习来结束你的文章，而是要像人一样成长 - 学习如何表达自己是这关键的一部分。

STAAR有说服力的论文：语言的运用/标点符号

最后，你要确保在你的文章中一直运用的语言都是有目的和精确选择过的。使你的句子结构多样化，熟练使用有力的词汇，并保持适当的语气。注意你的语法和拼写;小错误可能会被忽略，但任何分散文章流畅度或清晰度的事都会让你付出代价。这是重新阅读你的文章能派上用场的地方。

总是回去读一读（大声阅读出来！别只浏览！）你的整篇文章，微观编辑。一旦你确认你已经检查了所有的注意事项并完成修改- 恭喜！你已经完成了STAAR有说服力的论文。

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STAAR Test Essay Structure: Unleash Your Inner Wordsmith!

• December 21, 2023

Tackling STAAR Test's English essays may seem like a monumental task, almost like scaling the literary Everest, but you need not worry! This comprehensive guide is your seasoned guide, leading you through the intricate steps toward essay mastery. Together, we will dissect the essay structure, unravel the art of brilliance, and enrich your writing with a vocabulary that sings. Bid adieu to writer's block as you prepare to unleash your inner wordsmith and claim the spotlight on the STAAR Test stage – the journey is yours to own!  

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Understanding the Essence of STAAR Test Essay Structure

Before starting the journey we must understand that structure that defines STAAR Test English essays . The standard essay structure comprises an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Let's explore each section to unlock the secrets of crafting a compelling essay. 

• Introduction: Setting the Scene The introduction acts as the opening act of your essay, establishing the tone and introducing the central theme. Commence with a hook – a magnetic sentence designed to captivate the reader's attention. Following the hook, provide context and culminate with a crystal-clear thesis statement that outlines the main point or argument of your essay. 
• Body Paragraphs: Crafting the Narrative The body paragraphs form the core of your essay, where ideas flourish, and evidence strengthens your thesis. Each paragraph should center on a single idea or point, commencing with a topic sentence that introduces the central concept. support this with supplementary details, examples, or quotes that bolster your argument. Ensure seamless transitions between paragraphs to maintain a cohesive flow. 
• Conclusion: The Artsy Finale The conclusion serves as your essay's grand finale, bringing all elements together and leaving an indelible impression. Recapitulate your main points without introducing novel information. Conclude with a resounding closing statement that reinforces your thesis and leaves the reader with something substantial to ponder. 

Formulas for Success 

While creativity remains the soul of essay writing, having a formulaic approach can provide a robust scaffold for your ideas. Consider the following blueprint as your guide through the process: 

• Prewriting: Cultivating Ideas Before putting down your thoughts onto paper, invest time in brainstorming ideas. Write down key points, relevant examples, and any thoughts related to your essay topic. This stage allows you to organize your thoughts and chart the course for your essay. 
• Introduction: Capturing attentionInitiate your essay with a compelling hook that captivates the reader. This could be a surprising fact, a pertinent quote, or a rhetorical question. Following the hook, provide context and conclude with a robust thesis statement that outlines your stance or argument. 
• Body Paragraphs: Nurturing IdeasStart with a topic sentence that introduces the concept, followed by supporting details, examples, or evidence. Leverage transitional words for a seamless flow between paragraphs. 
• Conclusion: The Grand Finale Summarize your vital points in the conclusion without introducing fresh information. Conclude with a poignant closing statement that leaves a lasting imprint. Consider the broader implications of your argument or provide a call to action for the reader. 

Enriching Your Vocabulary

A rich and varied vocabulary can elevate your writing to new heights. Here are some tips to amplify your linguistic prowess:

• Diverse Reading: Expose yourself to a diverse array of literature. Books, articles, and essays from different genres and periods can introduce you to new words and expressions. 
• Vocabulary Journal: Maintain a journal to record unfamiliar words and their meanings. Challenge yourself to incorporate these words into your writing, reinforcing your understanding and usage. 
• A Verbal Journey: Utilize a thesaurus to discover synonyms and antonyms for common words. This not only diversifies your vocabulary but also empowers you to choose the most fitting words for your intended tone. 
• Linguistic Exploration: This practice not only sharpens your understanding of their meanings but also allows you to wield them in an adept manner using your writing. 

Unleashing Your Inner Wordsmith

Now that we've explored the structural foundations, formulaic brilliance, and vocabulary enhancements, it's time to unleash your inner wordsmith. Here are additional tips to amplify your writing prowess: 

• Practice Till You Succeed: Writing is a skill that comes with practice. Dedicate time to writing exercises, essays, and creative pieces to refine your craft. 
• The Art of Receiving Feedback:   Share your writing with peers, teachers, or mentors, and welcome constructive feedback. Understanding areas for improvement is pivotal for growth as a writer. 
• Revise, Edit, and Finalize: The first draft is just the beginning. Invest time in revising and editing your essay. Check for clarity, coherence, and consistency. Ensure that your ideas flow logically and that your language is precise. 
• Embrace Creativity: While structure and formula is important, so is creativity. Employ metaphors, similes, and vivid imagery to make your essay memorable.

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Mastering STAAR Test's English essays is an attainable feat with the right strategies and mindset. By comprehending the essay structure, embracing a formulaic approach, enriching your vocabulary, and practicing consistently, you can evolve into a wordsmith extraordinaire.

As you embark on this literary journey, remember that every word you pen is a brushstroke on the canvas of your expression. Unleash your creativity, embrace the writing process, and let your essays resonate on the STAAR Test stage! 

As a parent, we understand you are mindful of the critical importance of quality English Language Education for your child. 98thPercentile is here to help your child succeed!

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STAAR Writing Test Mastery: A Parent’s Guide to Preparation

When your child is aged 9 to 13, The State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness looms large in their lives. And naturally so, as it assesses how ready they are to move to the next level in the education system.

The assessment is also significant in the parents’ or guardians’ lives. Children might struggle to prepare for the assessment on their own, so naturally, helping them prepare is going to fall on your shoulders.

However, that is more easily said than done. Especially if it is some time since you sat in a classroom or it’s your first time putting a child through the education system.

So if your child struggles with writing, or you just want to make sure they get the best grade they can, read on. We provide more information on the STAAR assessments and resources you can use to help your child prepare.

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What is tested in the STAAR Writing Assessment?

From grades 3 to 8, children must take the reading test. In grades 4 and 7, they must also do the writing test. Other subjects are added to the list as students move forward in the grades.

The STAAR writing tests are challenging.

Students are tested on their knowledge of the mechanics of the English language.

They can expect to be tested on:

• Punctuation
• Capitalization

They are also asked to write two types of essays:

• An expository essay
• A persuasive essay

In the expository essay, they have to investigate an idea, discuss the evidence for it, and set forth an argument for the idea.

In the persuasive essay, they have to persuade the reader to accept a point of view through their use of rhetorical language and supporting points.

For a twelve-year-old 7th grader, writing these demanding essays may present less of a challenge than it does for the nine-year-old at grade 4. However, the bar is considerably higher at this level in terms of the language they should to use.

The tests vary in difficulty level between the two grades, but things they have in common are:

• Writing the composition
• Revising it

For a child to reach the standards expected, a lot of preparation is required. Inevitably, given the child’s age in each grade, enforcing study falls on the parent or guardian.

How can I help my child prepare for the STAAR Writing Test?

Helping your child prepare for any exam is demanding. You need to become familiar with the exam and find the best resources to help you.

You also find yourself combining the roles of caregiver and educator. However, when you can gain access to the tools required, your job becomes easier.

Reaching out to an examinations preparation company that helps children prepare for school examinations is your best course of action. They are familiar with the tests and have the know-how to approach them.

For children preparing for the STAAR assessments, we recommend using the services of Test Prep Online , a reputable test preparation company with many years of experience in helping children prepare for school tests. Using their services, you get accurate information and exam preparation materials.

Their materials come in a test prep pack containing sample test papers modeled on the real tests, helpful explanations for questions and answers, and a method to check your child’s scores as they work through the tests.

The materials provide practice writing tests modeled on the real thing so they can become familiar with the format and feel calm and prepared.

What else is tested in STAAR tests?

Reading tests increase in difficulty level as your child progresses through the grades.

Students are assessed on material that plays an important role in preparing them for the work at the next grade level. Hence the term “Academic Readiness.”

Reading tests assess their abilities in understanding the plot of a text, deciding on the central meaning of the text, and their understanding of the literary genre. To do well in the test, children need to have a wide vocabulary and analyze a text.

How is the STAAR Writing test scored?

To move on to the next grade, students have to score above Level 11 Performance Level in the test. If the child fails the first time, they get two more chances to pass the STAAR tests.

How can I help my child with the STAAR Writing Test?

Here are some things you can do in your day-to-day life with your child.

Encourage the child to read from a variety of age-appropriate books. Challenge them by introducing them to more difficult books as their reading improves.

Libraries are great places for this information. Bring them with you or on a visit to a bookstore.

Practice reading

Reading regularly will increase the child’s vocabulary.

Children are curious so expect to be bombarded with questions about the meaning of words. Better still, equip them with a dictionary written for their age group.

Increased vocabulary and familiarity with the written word will make them more comfortable writing.

Write down vocabulary

Another useful tactic is to encourage them to keep a notebook for new words and meanings. If they are willing, encourage them to incorporate those words into their conversation or use them in some written work.

Similarly, you know how easily children mimic what they hear adults saying. You will hear the words you use when talking to your child replicated in how they might talk to you.

Ask them to do some written work for you. They could perhaps write about a topic that interests them or keep a diary. Encourage them to ask you about the words they are using or look at their grammar and spelling.

4th graders, in particular, will benefit from having you check over their written work as their test asks them to correct written pieces in a range of multiple-choice questions.

Don’t be afraid to suggest how they might change some of the vocabulary they use.

Encourage them to use their vocabulary notebook as a resource when writing. You could play a game to see who can find the most words to describe something they see or feel.

How do I get my child exam-ready?

Being a parent, you recognize the importance of not allowing exam preparation to eat into too much of the child’s free time or to cancel out activities they enjoy.

The following points should make the process easier:

• It is important to set up a preparation timetable that allows the child to continue to have fun and avoids the build-up of resentment against anything school-related.
• Start the preparation work as early as you can. It will reduce the stress levels if you allow more time to prepare and avoid the panic that comes with a last-minute rush.

Sample papers

Use the sample papers that come with the test prep pack.

• They will let you know what precisely your child is being tested on and give you and your child the confidence of knowing that the child is preparing using material that mirrors the real exam.
• This will give the child the confidence of knowing that nothing surprising will be waiting for them in the real test.
• It will train the child to work within the time allowed for the test, which will benefit them when doing the real test and the many more tests that await them in the future.
• The scoring system that comes with the tests also allows you to monitor the child’s progress from test to test.
• Keeping an eye on the scores will alert you to any difficulties your child may have and allow you to resolve the problems at an early point.
• With each test the child completes, they will gain confidence. Encourage them to compete with themself to increase their scores. Children rise to challenges, and the prospect of doing better than they did in the last test should motivate them to continue preparing.

Support them

Keep an eye out for signs of stress.

For young children embarking on the school testing level can at first be exciting. Suddenly they’re part of the group who do tests.

However, the magic can soon wear off, and they may become anxious as they see the challenge that lies ahead. Unfortunately, children won’t always tell you when they are anxious. This situation will make you combine the roles of caregiver and educator.

Your best option is to pre-empt stress-related problems:

• Ensure the child is getting adequate sleep and good nutrition. Regular breaks out of doors and fresh air also go a long way to keeping them relaxed and healthy and aids learning. A healthy mind in a healthy body is especially relevant for people preparing for tests.
• While you are helping them prepare, make it fun. Children learn best when they are enjoying themselves. Working on finding the correct answers to questions can be turned into a game between you and the child. A game that the child, of course, wins.
• Build in a reward system for the child and try not to limit the reward system to correct answers. A good effort is just as deserving of a reward as is the free time they are giving up for preparation.

You will, no doubt, be greeted with remarks along the line of, “My friend’s mother does it like this.” The most important approach here is to realize children are different, especially when it comes to learning.

What works for one may not for another.

The day before the STAAR Writing Test

The day before the tests begin should ideally be given up to some rest and relaxation. The temptation is to keep on working but a child will find it difficult to learn anything new prior to the test.

A free day is a better guarantee of good test performance than any last-minute cramming.

The child needs to approach the tests well-rested and clear-headed. Fresh air, reassurances that they have done the work, and an early night will help the child capitalize on all the work they have done.

Note: Access the individual STAAR test study guides, by clicking on the links below.

The STAAR Test Day

Test day can be demanding, so to make it a little easier, try the following tips:

• Prepare everything the child needs the night before.
• A solid breakfast will go a long way towards helping the child get through the day.
• Ensure you arrive at the school early.
• If allowed, ensure the child has snacks and a drink to consume during the exam and is wearing comfortable clothing.

After the test

When you pick the child up after the test, make sure you bring a reward, this time for having done the test.

You will want to give them the recognition they deserve for having overcome one of the big challenges of their young lives.

If you have a child preparing for the STAAR , you will find all the resources you need to help you here .

Recommended Reading

• What Grade Do You Actually Need to Pass The STAAR Tests?

Written by Elizabeth O Mahony

With 25+ years’ experience as a teacher and state examinations corrector, Elizabeth now writes for the education and careers industry. Her experience preparing students for examinations and running an academy for supplementary education give her invaluable insights into what it takes for job seekers and graduates to succeed in assessments.

Sarah is an accomplished educator, researcher and author in the field of testing and assessment. She has worked with various educational institutions and organisations to develop innovative evaluation methods and enhance student learning. Sarah has published numerous articles and books on assessment and learning. Her passion for promoting equity and fairness in the education system fuels her commitment to sharing insights and best practices with educators and policymakers around the world.

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English I and II STAAR EOC Test Prep- Writing

I have taught both English I and English II in Texas. Both grades have an English STAAR EOC test that includes a writing portion. On the English I test students have to write an expository essay. On the English II test they have to write a persuasive essay. I’ve put together the strategies and models I’ve used in my classroom into these materials that you can use. They can purchased in my TPT store. You can either buy a bundle for both ENG I and ENG II or purchase the one you need.

I am in Texas and originally created this for my English II students to help prepare them for the persuasive  or expository essay they would have to write on the STAAR English II or I EOC test. The advice and common mistakes are aimed towards the goal of passing that writing test. However, I have a PhD in Composition and have tried to create this unit to fit best practices for persuasive essay writing in any situation (whether for a standardized test or a dual credit class or in general).

I did not include a rubric because what you are evaluating can change greatly between standardized test, dual credit courses, or general classroom writing goals. If you are using this to prepare students to write a persuasive essay on a standardized test go to your state testing website and look for a rubric. Texas STAAR has a rubric and lined writing paper for the English I expository EOC essay or English II EOC persuasive essay. You can find released Texas STAAR tests here on the state website. You can find the rubrics for the writing portion of the STAAR English I and II EOC here along with other state writing resources .

Here is a preview of what it is in the persuasive bundle: This writing kit is good for any persuasive essay needs, not just the Texas STAAR test! It has been updated and is now 27 pages long.

It includes: – 5 pages of writing instructions handouts with detailed examples. It goes paragraph by paragraph. – It has two versions on the example. One version has notes about the organizational structure. – Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid – A list of transition/linking words – A persuasive essay outline map for students who need a short structure guide – Outline with the organization structure labeled – Blank outline (some states allow blank organizers to be used on standardized tests) – A list of types of evidence with definitions – A list of 12 persuasive writing prompts – 12 Persuasive Essay Writing Prompt Cards – Notes for the teacher on how to use this kit

Here is a preview of what it is in the expository bundle: This expository essay writing kit is 25 pages.

It includes: – 4 pages of instructions on how to write the essay. It breaks the essay down paragraph by paragraph with examples. Includes the introduction with an attention getting device and thesis statement, body paragraph structure, transitions, conclusion, etc. – An example essay with and without a dissection of its parts – An outline graphic organizer with the components labeled – A blank copy of the graphic organizer (some states allow this on state tests) – A list of common mistakes and advice – A handy outline map to briefly remind students of the structure (handy for students with IEPs for additional handouts) – A list of transition (linking) words for student reference – A list of 12 expository prompts – A set of 12 expository prompt cards that can be printed and laminated for student use – Notes for the teacher with tips on how to use this kit.

+More about the writing prompt cards+ The prompt cards allow for practice with various prompts. You can print each prompt on a different color paper (the duplicate of that prompt should be the same color as the original). You can laminate them then have students choose a topic at random to write about. The second time around they merely pick a different color to ensure they get a different topic. Included is a blank set of cards for your own prompts.

• Click here to buy the Expository Writing Kit for the English I STAAR EOC
• Click here to buy the Persuasive Writing Kit for the English II STAAR EOC
• Click here to save money by buying them both in one bundle

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