The purpose of the Essay Test is to find out how well you can write an essay. You will have sixty minutes to write an essay on the topic you select.

Listed below, along with some information, are a few suggestions which will help you do your best on the essay.

1. You will be given a choice of topics. Read each topic carefully and choose the one on which you feel you can do your best writing.

2. Start planning your paper as soon as you have decided on your essay topic. You may use the space underneath the topics for making an outline or notes about your plans.

3. Organization of your essay is important. In general, the passing essay will have a central idea that is directly related to the assigned topic; have a clear organizational plan; develop points with evidence and details in a coherent, logical, and non-repetitious way; and avoid frequent or serious errors in grammar, mechanics, word choice, and sentence structure.

4. Allow yourself a little time at the end of your writing to check your paper and make any needed changes.

5. You must use a pen to write your essay. Essays written in pencil will not be graded. You may not use "white-out" or "Liquid Paper."

6. The graders must be able to read your essay. Be careful with your handwriting.

7. Your paper will be read and evaluated by three different graders. Neither your identity nor your school will be known to the graders.

   
   

   Click here to see the Sample Essay Booklet

   Last updated: October 1, 1997