RACES
On your whiteboard: What does RACES stand for?
Restate
Answer
Cite
Explain
Summarize
What is a thesis statement?
A clear main claim that answers a question and gives reasons.
What is textual evidence?
Information or quotes from a text that support your answer.
What should you do first when you read a test question?
Read the question carefully and identify what it is asking.
Who is the principal of Booker T. Washington
Dr.Phillips
What is the purpose of the “C” (cite)?
To provide text evidence that supports your answer.
Using a whiteboard:
Which thesis is stronger and why?
Thesis A: School is important.
Thesis B: School is important because it helps students develop critical thinking skills and prepare for future careers.
Thesis B is stronger because it is more specific and includes clear reasons, which helps the reader understand what the essay will explain.
On your whiteboard:
Give one sentence starter for evidence.
“According to the text, …”
Why is it important to eliminate wrong answer choices?
It increases your chances of choosing the correct answer.
What are the names of our counselors?
Ms. Forbes
Ms. Johnson
Mr.Williams
Why is the “E” (explain) important?
It shows how and why your evidence proves your answer.
Fix this thesis: School is good.
School is beneficial because it helps students gain knowledge and prepare for future careers.
Which is stronger evidence and why?
Evidence A: The character was sad.
Evidence B: “Tears streamed down her face as she sat alone in the dark.”
Evidence B is stronger because it is a direct quote from the text and provides specific details that show the character’s emotions.
What should you do if you don’t know the answer right away?
Skip it, answer other questions, and come back later.
Who are our administrators
Mr. Smith
Ms.Ukobam
Dr.Hall
Mr.Branch
What happens if you skip the “A” (answer)?
Your response is unclear and does not directly answer the question.
Write a thesis: Was segregation fair?
Write a thesis with 2 clear reasons.
School uniforms should be required because they reduce distractions and promote equality among students.
Add evidence to: Students protested for change.
Students protested for change. For example, they participated in sit-ins and marches during the Civil Rights Movement.
What is a good strategy for answering questions about a passage?
Go back to the text and find evidence to support your answer.
What school did Booker T. Washington help found?
He helped found the Tuskegee Institute.
On a response card
Write a full RACES response: Why did students protest during the Civil Rights Movement?
RA: Students protested during the Civil Rights Movement because they wanted equal rights and an end to segregation.
C: For example, students participated in sit-ins and marches to challenge unfair laws.
E: This shows they were willing to take action to demand change and bring attention to injustice.
S: Overall, students protested to fight for equality and justice.
Write a thesis with 2 clear reasons.
School uniforms should be required because they reduce distractions and promote equality among students.
Students protested for change. ADD evidence AND explain
Students protested for change. For example, they participated in sit-ins and marches. This shows they were actively fighting against unfair laws and demanding equality.
Why is it important to underline or highlight key words in a question?
It helps you focus on what the question is really asking and avoid mistakes.
What massively popular game, originally released in 2017, is still one of the most-played games in 2026 and is known for its Battle Royale mode?
Fortnite