Multiple Choice
Synthesis
Rhetorical Analysis
Argument
Study Tips
100

The two types of questions found in this section.

What are Reading and Writing questions?

100

The minimum number of sources you must cite to avoid a rubric penalty.

What is three?

100

The acronym used to analyze rhetorical pieces.

What is SPACECAT?

100

A claim that takes a clear side and can be supported with evidence.

What is a defensible thesis?

100

The total time allowed for the MCQ section.

What is 60 minutes?

200

The purpose of a "Writing" question on the exam.

What is to revise or edit the text for clarity and logic?

200

The primary goal of this essay besides citing sources.

What is to enter the "conversation" and support your own position?

200

The term for the specific event or "spark" that prompted the writing.

What is Exigence?

200

The acronym used to brainstorm evidence for this essay.

What is CHORES

200

The point value breakdown of the free response question rubric.

What is 1 4 1?

300

These are located at the bottom of a passage and provide context or source info.

What are footnotes?

300

Number of sources provided in synthesis tasks.

What is Six-Seven?

300

This is the author's attitude toward the subject matter.

What is Tone?

300

Acknowledging the opposite side of the argument to show complexity.

What is a concession/counter-argument?

300

The recommended amount of time for the initial reading period.

What is 15 minutes?

400

If a question asks for the "function" of a paragraph, it is asking for this.

What is its purpose or how it develops the argument?

400

This is the most efficient way to cite a source in your body paragraphs.

What is parenthetical citation (Source A)?

400

The "So What?" factor, explaining why a choice was made for a specific audience.

What is Rhetorical Analysis/Commentary?

400

The term for the logical progression of your claims and evidence.

What is the Line of Reasoning?

400

The easiest way to attempt the "Sophistication" point.

What is acknowledging multiple perspectives or context?

500

The best strategy for "EXCEPT" or "LEAST" questions.

What is the Process of Elimination?

500

This error occurs when a student just repeats what the sources say without arguing.

What is the Source Summary?

500

You should always describe this (e.g., "clinical" or "informal") rather than just stating the author uses it.

What is Diction?

500

This type of evidence is based on your own life but must remain relevant to the prompt.

What is Personal Anecdote/Experience?

500

If you are running out of time on an essay, you must prioritize this.

What is the thesis and one strong body paragraph?