ELA A30 2006 Prototype Departmental Exam

Intro and concluding writing assignment 

1. After focusing yesterday on the proper format for an opening and concluding paragraph, we looked at several student-generated essays, looking especially at their introductions and conclusions. Some of these were positive (good) examples of what is required and others were negative (bad) ones.
2. The students were given an in-class assignment. Using the essay question from the 2006 ELA A30 prototype, students were given the outline of an essay already partially completed. The topics of the three body paragraphs were provided. Students had to create a proper opening and concluding paragraph to match the original question and topics that were given.
   One reminder and focus was given that when the three body paragraphs are comprised of six sentences each (as is the format they’ve been taught) you need to ensure that your first and final paragraphs aren’t too small in comparison. You want to ensure that your essay looks well balanced when you are finished.
   Click on the link above to see the assignment given. It was handed in at the end of class.
3. I also gave the students a copy of the prototype so those who wished to could familiarize themselves with the format of the exam. I wrote on the board, and had them copy it, the format of the different portions of the exam and their corresponding marks. We clarified things like what is required in the formal essay. Students were reminded they ‘need’ to reference three pieces of literature, one being a large piece of work and two smaller.