ABCDs of Timed Writings
  Doing well on writing assessments

Attack the prompt
Brainstorm possible answers
Choose the order of your response (outline)
Detect errors before submitting the draft

Attack the prompt

1. Cross out things unrelated to forming your message
2. Circle any word that asks you to do something.
3. Draw an arrow from each circled word to what it specifically tells you to do.
4. Under the prompt, rewrite and and number the circled words, then next to it re-write what the word asks you to do. This is your new prompt.

Brainstorm

Make a list of all the ideas that you might use to satisfy the prompt.
Choose the one that you will be able to develop most effectively during a timed writing.

Choose an order

Make an idea web

• Put your topic at the center.
• Around it list the main ideas that support it
• Under each main idea list the details you can use for support

Select an order

• Decide the best order for the main ideas, and number them
• (You do not need to use all of them}

Start writing

• Begin with a clear statement of your opinion
• Start each following paragraph with a strong transition

Detect Errors before Submitting

Leave time to proofread your writing. Be sure all your sentences are complete and have a rhythm that’s easy to read and understand. Be sure all sentences begin with capitals and that “I” is captalized.

Example

By the time students enter high school, they have learned about many moments in history that have influenced our world today. Think about a moment in history you studied and consider its importance.

Write a composition in which you discuss a moment in history. Share its importance in today’s world. Be sure to support the moment with details and examples.