Topic: Writing Tests

10-second review: What are possible effects of state and SAT writing tests? State and SAT writing tests on someone else’s topics deaden writing, take away student interest in writing and lead to leaden writing that may be correct, but lacking in enthusiasm and joy in self-expression.

Source: I forgot to record where I found this complaint about state and SAT writing tests. Sorry about that!

Comment: I can also add that state and SAT writing tests allow little time for preparation (brainstorming the topic) and revision and editing (although the state tests are usually an hour and do give some limited time for brainstorming and revising). The SAT, at 25 minutes, gives no time for either. The best a teacher can do is give the students plenty of practice in brainstorming, organizing and revising on the fly. The brainstorming should provide ideas, the organizing should establish the beginning, thesis, details and summary; and whatever is left will probably only be used for editing (spelling, etc.). RayS.