Writing Test A

Writing Test A has nine passages with a total of 36 questions. Each frame is divided into two parts. The top frame allows you to scroll down as you read the passage using the scroll bar to your right. The bottom frame shows the question to be answered.

Passage 1 (Questions 1-4)

¹When taking a standardized test, some portion of your score is dependent on your ability to take such tests. ² Tasks, such as filling out forms or closely following directions, may seem mundane, but some people score poorly because they are not properly addressed. ³ After all, the forms allow a computer system to grade the test and properly following the directions will ensure your best opportunity for scoring well. ⁴ Standardized tests are regularly used in many schools.

⁵ A standardized test score is determined by both your knowledge of the subject and your skill at handling the assessment. ⁶ For best test results, the manner in which scores is determined is of major importance. ⁷ Usually , wrong answers are scored in the same manner as missing answers. ⁸ In such instances, always guess when the right answer is unknown because the penalty for an incorrect response is the same as for a blank response. ⁹ Sometimes, the scoring system of a standardized test subtracts points for wrong answers and does not do so for missing answers. ¹⁰ In these situations, it is important to discriminate between instances when you have a good versus a poor chance of guessing the right answer.

¹¹Once the test begins, look through the questions; answer any that seem well within your grasp. ¹² That technique will build your confidence because you are getting some good results on the answer sheet. ¹³Also you will find that the review you obtain by answering the easier questions may help you figure out answers for some of the questions that originally seemed more difficult.

¹⁴ As you near the end of a standardized test. ¹⁵Make certain that you have answered every question possible. ¹⁶ Also, be sure you answered each question in its correct blank. ¹⁷ Learning to be a good test-taker pays extra dividends in the scores made on standardized tests.

Note: On the THEA test, the groups of words that are punctuated as sentences are referred to as “Parts.” They may be correctly written and punctuated sentences, or they may not be correct. The questions refer to the numbers immediately before each “Part.”