Test Preferences
Multiple choice tests are hands-down favorites with kids—not that they love taking them, only that they prefer them over other exam types. True/false and matching come in with mixed reviews—but not so essay tests, which barely register on the popularity meter. Unlike objective tests, which only require recognizing the right answers, essay tests demand total recall, and that, as most students say, isn’t so easy. But wait a minute . . .
The Essay Advantage
No somewhat true statements, “none of the above” options, or unmatched columns lay in wait to trick students on essay tests. Instead, they invite the inclusion of all pertinent information recalled from lectures and readings, not just the specifics targeted on objective tests. Control shifts to the student, who determines how to present the gathered facts—with room for some bluffing and partial credit, too.
An Essay Checklist
Essay tests are gaining favor with educators, as they more reliably measure understanding and higher thinking than their objective counterparts. Why, they’re even on the SAT’s now, so here’s some advice to share with your child:
- Prepare with some self-styled essay questions and test yourself, checking answers when done.
- Listen carefully for all directions, time limits, corrections/additions to be made, and the number of questions to be answered.
- Read all instructions carefully.
- Attend carefully to and highlight direction words, such as compare and contrast.
- Any questions? Ask them before anyone starts writing.
- Plan how much time to devote to each answer to insure finishing on time.
- Before writing, quickly outline or map main ideas and facts, along with pertinent details and examples.
- Logically order these notations beforehand; organization is key.
- Rewrite the question as the introductory sentence(s). For example, if asked to describe the terrible conditions endured by George Washington and his men at Valley Forge, start with: "George Washington and his men endured terrible conditions while camped at Valley Forge."
- If time permits, rev that lead up a bit, writing, for example: "Do you think you could sit outside in snowy temperatures that hovered around the ten degree mark? Washington and his crew did just that at Valley Forge during that awful winter of 1777-78."
- Stick to the topic and don't include any unrelated information.
- When in doubt as to an answer, just start writing. Chances favor knowing at least something about the topic--and it beats leaving a blank.
- Write legibly, stick to the margins, and always proofread.
- Use returned essay tests to determine weaknesses and improve the next time around.
In Other Words
Remind your child that essay writing is not about thoughtlessly jotting down everything known about a topic; teachers are not impressed by length. The goal is quality, so, once again, a strong introduction is essential, as is responding in accordance with the direction word. As legibly as possible, all major points must be organized and included, with every sentence tied to the main idea, as well. Moreover, the conclusion must satisfy; it’s right up there with the lead in importance. And finally, time must be allotted for checking punctuation, grammar, and spelling.
Now share and post these suggestions in your child's work area and insert them in her notebook, too. They apply to all essay writing, timed or not. After that, the rest is up to her. This is her chance to put it all out there and show what she’s learned and can tie together--making every word count.
