TredyffrinEasttown School District 8 th Grade English PSSA

Tredyffrin-Easttown School District 8 th Grade

English PSSA Testing: April 14 th – 17 th Number of Estimated Number Grades 4 -8 Number. Format of WP/TDA MC/EBSR of Passages Estimated Section Testing Time (in minutes) Section Content Emphasis 1 Writing and Language 20 MC 1 0 60 2 Reading 15– 18 MC 4– 5 EBSR 0 3 58– 69 3 Reading and Text Dependent Analysis 14 MC 2 EBSR 1 2 73 4 Reading and Text Dependent Analysis 5– 8 MC 1– 2 EBSR 1 1 48– 57

PSSA 2010 Give at least two reasons that Dr. Ebbesmeyer probably wants to continue receiving information about these shoes. Explain why this information would be helpful. Use details from the passage to support your response. PSSA 2014 The drama focuses on events in the life of Florence Nightingale. Write an essay analyzing how the three-scene structure of the drama emphasizes certain characteristics of Florence. Use evidence from the drama to support your response.

Not Text-Dependent Analysis Questions In the text there once was a curious bird who says to Tortoise, “And you sowed yourself, too”. Describe a time when you showed yourself you could do something. Text-Dependent Analysis Questions The text begins with: There once was a curious bird who wondered, What can a small bird be? Write an essay that analyzes why the authors chose to begin the text with this question. Use evidence from the text to support your response. Amelia Earhart has been depicted as a daring, courageous person. The authors of each of the two texts about Amelia Earhart have Identify at least three events that demonstrate these traits. Then been stated that she was a daring, courageous person. Consider write a summary of Amelia Earhart’s life. the argument each author made to demonstrate her bravery. Write an essay that analyzes the strength of the arguments using textual evidence to support your ideas. In “Casey at the Bat”, Casey strikes out. Compare yourself to Casey by describing a time when you failed at something. Page 4 • The author of “Casey at the Bat” uses humor to describe Casey’s experiences. Write an essay analyzing the author’s techniques. Be sure to use textual evidence to support your analysis.

Argument – position or claim – should be supported with valid evidence and reasoning. Should include a counter argument (counterclaim) to illustrate opposing viewpoints. Claim – another word for thesis statement that forms the basis of your argument Elaborate – add detail from the text Figure of Speech – a word or phrase used to convey meaning or heighten effect Drama – a play to be performed on stage, radio or television Element of Fiction – see your short story term sheet (character, plot, theme, symbol, tone…)

Read a short passage and answer questions Grammar How does an author use a certain word? (lit/symbolic) Sentence Structure Revision Any element of fiction – “What is theme? ” Which intended effect do the sentences have on the reader’s point of view? Which answer best supports…

Part I – A stand alone question Part II – Depends on your answer to part I Read each question carefully – some will require two answers for one question.

Some questions may require a written response. They will call it an essay. This essay could incorporate one, two or even three different texts. You are required to use all texts provided to answer that question. For any questions that say, “Text Dependent Analysis” you are NOT required to write 6 paragraphs. You do need to make sure that you answer ALL parts of the question and use EVIDENCE, EVIDENCE – specific examples from the text!!!!

This is similar to the writing we have done in class: Introduction with a thesis/claim Two-Three body paragraphs that support your claim One paragraph of counterclaim of rebuttal. Conclusion Example: Your school is considering a change in the way class presidents are chosen. Some students want to create a small committee which, in turn, would choose the class president. On the other hand, there are those students who want all students in the class to be able to vote for their choice of class president. Think about which method of choosing the class president is the most effective. Write an argumentative essay stating your claim about whether a small committee of students or all the students in the class should be allowed to chose the class president. Be sure to use reasons and evidence to develop your argument.

Introduction with a guiding statement Two to Three Body Paragraphs devoted to one controlling point each Conclusion Example: Think about a law that is important – national, state or local. Consider why it is important and why it affects peoples’ lives. Write an essay for your teacher that describes an important law and explain why it is important. Be sure to use details and examples to support your ideas.

Tell a story that has a clear sequencing of events – includes charter, plot, setting, theme… Example: Imagine that someone became a positive role models for others. Think about what this person might have done to become a positive role model. Consider other people who might have been involved. Write a story that tells how someone became a positive role model for others.

You will have 2 hours each day to read, answer all multiple choice questions and plan, write and revise your essays. All tests are untimed – so if you need more time - you have it! Building Schedule 6 min. 30 min. Homeroom Period 1 7: 50 - 7: 56 7: 58 - 8: 26 30 min. Period 2 8: 28 - 8: 56 120 min. Test 9: 00 - 11: 00 30 min. Period 3 11: 02 - 11: 30 44 min. Period 5 11: 32 - 12: 16 44 min. Period 6 12: 18 - 1: 02 30 min. Period 4 1: 04 - 1: 32 30 min. Period 7 1: 34 - 2: 02 31 min. Period 8 2: 04 - 2: 33 Make-up Testing: April 20, 24 and May 4 -8