state test essay practice

TSI Essay Sample

Below is a high-scoring TSI sample essay for your review. This response is based on our TSI Practice Essay . We recommend that you type your own essay before you read this TSI essay example. Following the sample essay there is a commentary which explains why it would earn a high score.

TSI Sample Essay Commentary

This response would earn a score of 8. Even though the TSI essay is scored holistically (meaning as a whole, not by its parts), let’s look at a detailed explanation of how this essay scored well in each of the essay criteria:

Purpose and focus The writer begins their essay by introducing the problem, that schools are being forced to cut programs that they view as “non-essential.” This idea becomes the basis for the rest of the writer’s essay as they explore all the reasons why art classes should be considered “essential.” They address the problem head on, show that they understand the complexity of the issues, and take a stance. Throughout the essay, the writer uses effective examples to defend art classes, making sure to consistently refer back to the problem: people should value art classes. In the conclusion, the writer admits that core classes are also important (a point that would likely be argued by someone on the opposing side of this issue), but stresses the importance of art classes and even offers some potential solutions that would be acceptable by people on both sides of the argument.

Organization and structure The writer provides a traditional and extremely effective organization to their essay. Their introduction paints a portrait of the problem and offers a clear stance. The body paragraphs each provide a different reason that people should agree with the writer. The conclusion brings the argument to a nice finish with a concession and reaffirmation of the writer’s originally idea. Additionally, the writer uses effective transitions, like “as a matter of fact,” “not only do art classes…,” and “despite the benefits of…” to link their paragraphs together and make their writing fluid and convincing.

Development and support Each body paragraph contains a separate, but related, argument that effectively supports the writer’s main point. While the writer could have been more specific in their examples, they do a good enough job explaining each point that it is still very effective. The writer also varies their examples well, explaining how art classes can nurture innovative thinkers who improve society, how art classes help students with traditional critical thinking skills, and how art classes can help improve the morale and overall happiness of students. Varying their argument as such helps the writer convince even the harshest critics of art programs.

Sentence variety and style The writer uses varied sentence structure to craft a style that is engaging and convincing. The writer uses a very conversational tone to relate to the readers, but also makes sure to use elevated language to show readers that the writer’s opinion is valid and well thought-out.

Mechanical Conventions While this essay response may not be perfect, there are no noticeable mistakes in mechanics or conventions. The writer effectively displays their command of the rules of the English language.

Critical thinking This response displays a high level of critical thinking. The writer looks at several different angles when they approach the problem. For readers who may criticize art classes for being unimportant, the writer explains that independent and divergent thinking is what helps societies grow and develop. For readers who may laud core classes over all else, the writer discusses the critical thinking skills art students must develop and how these skills can be extremely helpful in core classes. The writer even discusses how art classes can help improve the mental health of students. By discussing the problem from many different perspectives, the writer is able to reach more readers and be far more persuasive.

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TSIA2 Practice Test

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TSIA2 Math Prep Course

More Practice Exams

1 . Question

This pie chart describes the market share of 5 brands of cleaner, based on a survey of 300 shoppers in New York.

Which 2 brands have similar market shares?

2 . Question

45 of the shoppers purchased D. How large is the sector angle for D?

• a. 45 degrees
• b. 60 degrees
• c. 70 degrees
• d. 54 degrees

3 . Question

The angle for B is 198 degrees. How many shoppers purchased B?

4 . Question

There is a 12% sales tax. The pre-tax cost of a mobile phone is $280. What is the tax payable on this mobile phone?

5 . Question

Given the formula a = s 2  + 3b – c , find the value of a when s = 7, b = 13 and c = -24.

6 . Question

The circle below is divided into eight equal sectors. If a sector is chosen at random what is the probability that the sector contains B or C?

7 . Question

A wage sheet of a small business shows one employee’s details. The employee is paid $40 an hour for overtime hours where they work more than their usual 26 hours.

What number should replace x?

8 . Question

Which of these is true?

• a. √(-3) is negative
• b. √(-3) is positive
• c. √(-3) is undefined
• d. √(-3) is an integer

9 . Question

Chong thinks of a number, adds 10 then multiplies the number so obtained by 3 and gets 42.

If the number is n then write an equation for this.

• a. 3(n + 10) = 42
• b. 3n + 10 = 42
• c. 42n + 10 = 3
• d. 10n + 3 = 42

10 . Question

The graph below is part of the graph of the function T = (t + 1)(t – 3) for the temperature in a refrigerator for time t hours after midday.

For which set of t values is the temperature below 0?

• a. 1< t < 3
• b. -1< t < 3
• c. t >= 3
• d. -1< t < -3

TSIA2 Math Exam Prep

All tsi practice tests.

We have listed all of our free TSI practice tests below. Pick which section you want to start with and begin your studies.

• TSI Math Practice Test 1
• TSI Math Practice Test 2
• TSI Math Practice Test 3
• TSI Math Practice Test 4
• TSI ELAR Practice Test 1
• TSI ELAR Practice Test 2
• TSI ELAR Practice Test 3
• TSI ELAR Practice Test 4
• TSI Essay Practice Test 1
• TSI Essay Practice Test 2
• TSI Essay Practice Test 3
• TSI Essay Practice Test 4

Other TSIA2 Resources

When preparing for your TSIA2 exam, you may find these other resources helpful:

TSIA2 Exam Overview

The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment is a program that measures a student’s readiness for college-level courses in math, reading, and writing. Colleges also use the TSI results to help place students in the right courses and determine if any interventions are necessary.

The table below breaks down the TSIA2 exam and how it is structured.

You will first be given the College Readiness Classification (CRC) version of the exam.

If you do not pass the CRC benchmarks, you will then taking the diagnostic version of the sections you did not pass.

The essay is given along with the ELAR section.

TSI English Language Arts Reading (ELAR) Section

The TSI English language arts reading (ELAR) section measures your ability to read and write.

The questions are broken up into 2 main categories:

• Reading-Focused
• Writing-Focused

You will take the CRC version of the exam first. If you do not pass, you will then take the diagnostic version. The exam is multiple-choice and untimed.

TSI Mathematics Section

The TSI math section measures your ability in mathematics.

The questions are broken up into 4 main categories:

• Quantitative Reasoning
• Algebraic Reasoning
• Geometric and Spatial Reasoning
• Probabilistic and Statistical Reasoning

TSI Essay Section

The TSI essay section measures your ability to write. You will be given a prompt and asked to respond with a 300 to 600 word essay.

Your essay will be scored based on the following 6 characteristics:

• Purpose and Focus
• Organization and Structure
• Development and Support
• Sentence Variety and Style
• Mechanical Conventions
• Critical Thinking

The essay will appear on the CRC version of the ELAR test. You will not be allowed to use outside resources to help with the essay.

TSIA2 Scores and Exemptions

All incoming college students in Texas are required to take the TSI exam. You will need the following minimum passing scores:

TSIA2 (After 1/11/21):

• Math: CRC score of 950+ or CRC score below 950 and a diagnostic level of 6.
• ELAR: CRC score of 945+ and an essay score of 5+ or CRC score below 945 and a diagnostic level of 5 and an essay score of 5+.

TSI (Before 1/11/21):

• Math: Score from 350 to 390.
• Reading: Score from 351 to 390.
• Writing: Score of 340+ and an essay score of 4+.

There are some exemptions to the TSI test based on how you scored on other standardized exams. To learn more about scores and exemptions, read our complete guide to TSI scores .

TSIA2 Practice Test Benefits

There are many benefits of preparing for your TSI exam with practice tests. Studying for your TSI test using sample questions is one of the most effective study practices you can use. The advantages of using sample TSI tests include:

• Improving Your Problem Solving Abilities: To do well on the TSI exam, especially the math section, you need to be able to solve problems. As you practice with our sample questions, and review the provided explanations, you will increase your ability to solve problems.
• Mastering the Test Format:  Standardized exams, like the TSI, have their own particular test formats. The best way to become familiar with the test format is to take practice exams. By understanding the TSI test format you will have no surprises on test day!
• Concentrating Your Study: Many students waste a lot of valuable study time by reviewing material that they are good at. As you answer more TSI practice questions, you will get a feel for what you struggle with. The most effective way to study is to concentrate on the areas that you need help on.

TSIA2 Exam FAQs

What is the tsi exam.

TSI stands for Texas Success Initiative. The TSI is an assessment exam that aims to gauge a student’s readiness for college-level courses in math, reading, and writing.

The test is also used as a way to place students in the appropriate classes in college.

What is on the TSI exam?

The TSIA2 exam consists of the following:

• English Language Arts and Reading

The exam is multiple-choice and untimed. The essay is given at the end of the ELAR section.

How much does the TSIA2 exam cost?

The TSIA2 exam costs $29. If you only need to take the ELAR section it is $20. If you only need to take the math section it is $10.

Are calculators allowed on the TSIA2 exam?

You will not be allowed to bring a calculator when taking the exam. However, a calculator will appear on questions that allow the use of one on your screen.

Is the TSIA2 exam given on a computer?

Yes, the TSI exam is given on a computer. The exam is computer adaptive, which means that questions will get harder or easier based on how you answered the previous question.

What is the best way to study for the TSI?

One of the best ways to get ready for a standardized test is by taking practice tests.

Our free TSI practice tests will challenge you on all aspects of the TSI.

Our practice questions also include answer explanations to help you better understand the material and do better on the TSI.

• Authored By: Dave Evangelisti
• Last Updated: June 13, 2024

State Test Writing Prompts: Prepare for Standardized Assessments

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Understanding​ the‍ Purpose of State Test Writing Prompts

Breaking down⁤ the essential elements of writing test prompts, developing effective writing strategies for standardized assessments, structuring your​ response: organizing ideas and presenting evidence, enhancing your writing style ⁣to impress the assessors, enhancing⁢ your writing⁤ style: impress the assessors, avoiding common mistakes on state test writing prompts, practical tips for time⁣ management during‍ writing assessments, utilizing practice materials to sharpen your test writing skills, frequently asked questions, key takeaways.

State ⁣test writing prompts ⁢often seem daunting, but understanding the purpose behind them‌ can greatly ⁣improve your performance. These prompts are carefully crafted to assess your writing skills and ability to express‌ ideas effectively within⁢ a given time frame. By‍ deciphering their purpose,⁣ you can‌ approach these prompts with confidence and clarity.

1.​ Evaluating writing skills: State ⁣test⁤ writing prompts are designed to evaluate your competency ‌in various ⁣writing areas, such as grammar, coherence, and organization.‍ They⁣ assess your ability to construct a well-structured and articulate piece of writing within the​ given prompt. Understand that these prompts require not only good content but also impeccable execution.

2. Testing critical ⁣thinking: Beyond evaluating‌ your writing abilities, state test writing prompts aim to assess your critical thinking skills. They prompt you to analyze a given situation, ⁣formulate opinions, and present arguments to support your views. By deciphering the underlying purpose, you‌ can anticipate the type of critical ⁣thinking prompts you might encounter and prepare accordingly.

Analyzing Key Components⁣ in Writing Test Prompts

When it comes to writing test prompts, there are several important components that cannot be overlooked. These elements play a crucial ⁣role in shaping the prompt and determining how students approach their‌ responses. By carefully analyzing ‍each key component, educators can ensure that the prompts they create are effective and capable of assessing students’ writing abilities accurately.

• Purpose: The purpose of a⁤ writing test prompt is to elicit‍ a​ specific⁢ type of‌ writing from students. It may⁣ aim to persuade, inform, describe, or ​narrate. Determining the purpose ⁣is essential as it sets the tone and expectations for the student’s response.
• Genre: Writing⁣ test prompts can vary depending on‍ the genre ⁣they focus on. ⁤Whether it is‌ an argumentative essay, a personal narrative, or a research ‍paper, ​the prompt must clearly indicate the genre to guide students in their writing approach.
• Prompt Structure: A well-structured prompt should include clear instructions,‍ any necessary background information, and a clearly stated ⁣writing task. Breaking down the structure ensures that students understand what they are required to do and what is expected of them.
• Topic and Scope: The topic of the⁢ writing prompt provides students ⁣with a specific subject or area of focus for their response. Additionally, the scope of the prompt outlines⁢ the boundaries, specifying the extent of ‍information or ideas that should be covered in their writing.
• Audience: ​ Understanding the intended audience is crucial in ⁣guiding students’ writing style and language​ choices. The prompt should clearly​ define whether the response is aimed at a general audience, a specific group, or even ⁤oneself.
• Time Limit: Writing test prompts often come with time constraints. ⁤Providing students with‍ a specific time​ frame allows them to manage their writing process efficiently and also prepares‍ them for real-life writing ⁢scenarios.

By analyzing these key components ⁢in writing test⁤ prompts, educators can create well-crafted⁤ prompts that assess students’ writing skills effectively. Ensuring that these components are ⁤clearly defined and coherent helps students understand the task at hand and ⁣allows for fair and ‌accurate ⁣assessment of their abilities.

When it comes to‍ standardized assessments, having effective writing strategies can make all​ the difference in your success. These assessments require you to not only showcase your knowledge ​and understanding of the subject matter but also to​ do so in a clear, concise, and well-structured manner. Here are some tips to help you develop effective writing strategies for ⁣standardized assessments:

• Understand the prompt: Before you begin writing, ‌carefully read and analyze the ‍prompt. Identify the key points and the specific requirements of ⁢the task to ensure you address them appropriately.
• Plan and⁣ organize: Take the time to plan your response before diving into writing. Outline ​your main ideas,​ supporting details, and the overall ⁢structure of your essay. This will help ⁣you maintain a logical flow and prevent you from getting off-track.
• Use evidence and examples: To strengthen your ​arguments, incorporate relevant evidence and examples to support ⁢your claims. This not only ⁢demonstrates your understanding‍ but also adds credibility to your writing.

Additionally,⁣ use ⁢transitional words and phrases to smoothly transition between ideas‍ and paragraphs. This will ⁤help your writing flow and show a high level of‌ coherence. Proofread your work carefully for grammar and⁣ spelling errors before submitting your essay.‌ Finally, manage your time effectively during ⁤the assessment to ensure you have enough time to plan, write, and revise your ⁤response.

When it comes to crafting a compelling response, the way you structure⁤ your ideas and present evidence plays a crucial role⁢ in conveying your message effectively. Here are some ‌key points to keep in mind to ‌ensure your response is well-organized and persuasively presented:

• Outline your main points: Before diving ‍into writing your response, take a few moments to‍ brainstorm and outline the main points you want to address. This will help you provide a clear and logical flow of ideas throughout your writing.
• Use paragraphs: Break down your response into paragraphs to make it easier for your audience to read⁣ and ⁤comprehend. Each paragraph should focus ⁢on one main idea or argument, supported by⁤ relevant evidence.
• Present evidence effectively: To strengthen your arguments, incorporate supporting evidence such as facts, statistics, or examples. Be sure to⁤ clearly cite your sources, as this ⁢adds credibility to your response.

Furthermore, consider using​ transitional phrases to connect your ideas, making your response coherent and easy to follow. Phrases like “in addition,”‍ “however,” ‍and “on the other hand” ‌help signal shifts ​in thought and‍ guide your reader through‌ your response smoothly. Additionally, bold important keywords or phrases to make them stand out and reinforce the significance of your ‍ideas.

Remember, a‌ well-structured​ response not ⁤only showcases your ⁣organization skills but also allows⁣ your audience to⁣ grasp your arguments easily. So take the time to ‍structure your response thoughtfully, present your evidence persuasively, and watch your ideas come to⁣ life!

When it comes to written communication, the first impression is crucial. Whether you are⁣ writing ⁢an essay, a report, or ‍an important email, refining your writing style is an effective way to make ‍a⁢ lasting​ impact on assessors. Here ⁢are⁤ some valuable tips to ​help ‌you⁣ enhance your writing style ‍and leave the assessors truly impressed:

• Develop a unique voice: ‍ Your writing⁢ should reflect your personality ⁣and individuality. Take the time to find your own voice and writing style. Experiment with different ⁤tones and ‌sentence structures to create an engaging and authentic piece of writing.
• Master grammar‍ and punctuation: Nothing undermines the credibility of your writing like grammar and punctuation errors. Ensure you ‍have‌ a solid grasp on the basics of ⁤punctuation,‍ verb tenses, and sentence structure. Proofread your work multiple times to eliminate any mistakes ⁣and use⁤ tools like spell checkers for additional support.
• Find the balance between simplicity and complexity: While it’s important to convey your ⁣ideas clearly, a touch of complexity can elevate your writing. Use a varied vocabulary, sentence length, and structure to maintain the reader’s interest. However, be cautious not to overwhelm them with ‍excessive jargon⁣ or convoluted sentences.
• Engage the senses: To⁣ captivate ⁣assessors, tap into their imagination‍ by including vivid descriptions that activate the senses. Paint a picture with words to evoke emotions ⁤and create a lasting impression.
• Revise and edit: Never‍ underestimate the ‌power of revision and editing. After writing your initial draft, take a⁣ step back and revisit your work ‍with fresh eyes.⁣ Look for areas to improve, eliminate repetitive words or phrases, and ensure your ideas flow logically. This iterative process will refine your writing to its best version.
• Read extensively: The more you read,​ the more exposure you gain ⁣to different writing styles. Explore a variety of genres, authors,​ and subjects to ⁢expand your vocabulary and inspirations. This continuous learning journey will ‍help you refine your own writing style over time.

By following ⁤these tips, you⁤ can impress assessors with your ‍writing style and create ⁤impactful ‌written content. Remember, practice makes perfect,‌ so don’t⁢ be ⁢afraid to experiment and iterate until you ‌find a style that resonates with both you and assessors.

When facing a⁤ state test writing prompt,⁤ it is crucial to be well-prepared and confident in your ability to ace​ it. To ensure success, it’s important to avoid some ⁤common mistakes that many students make. By keeping these tips in mind, you can improve your writing skills and boost your chances of achieving a high score.

1. Ignoring the prompt

One of the biggest mistakes students often make is‍ neglecting to ​fully address the prompt. Take the time‍ to carefully read and understand what is ⁣being asked of you. Make sure your response directly applies to the prompt, ⁢addressing‌ all the key points. By staying ⁢focused, you can⁣ avoid veering off-topic and stay on track to a well-crafted essay.

2. Lack of organization

A common pitfall in writing⁣ is the lack of organization. Ensure that your ⁤ideas flow logically and coherently by creating an outline⁤ before you begin. Start with a strong introduction that⁤ clearly states ‍your thesis. Then, develop your arguments in a coherent manner, providing evidence and examples to‌ support your claims.⁣ Finally, wrap up your essay with a solid conclusion that summarizes your main points ‌and reiterates your thesis. By structuring ‌your⁣ essay in this way, you’ll demonstrate your⁣ ability to communicate effectively.

Effective time management is crucial when it comes ⁤to ⁢writing ‌assessments. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your ​time⁤ and ace your⁢ writing tasks:

• Plan ⁣your time: Before you start writing, allocate specific time frames ⁤for planning, drafting, ​revising, and proofreading. This will help you stay ‍focused and prevent procrastination.
• Read the prompt carefully: Take the time to thoroughly understand the writing prompt. Identify key ⁤requirements ‌and brainstorm ‍ideas to develop a clear and coherent response.
• Create an ⁣outline: Outlining your thoughts before diving⁢ into the actual writing can save you valuable⁢ time. It provides a⁣ roadmap for your essay and helps organize your ideas.
• Manage your word count: Keep track of the word limit and ensure‍ your writing stays within ‍the specified range. Avoid going off-topic or⁤ including⁤ unnecessary information ⁤that consumes your precious time.

Break it down: Don’t overwhelm yourself by attempting⁢ to write the whole‍ essay in one go. Break it​ down into manageable parts, such as paragraphs or sections. Focus on‌ one part at a time, concentrating fully on its quality and coherence.

Review and revise: Allocate sufficient time at the end to‍ review your essay. Read through it carefully, checking for grammar, punctuation, and ⁢spelling ⁤errors. ⁣Make necessary revisions to enhance⁤ clarity and coherence.

Welcome to the world of test writing skills! ‌Writing a test can be a challenging task, but ⁣with the right practice materials, you can sharpen your skills and ace any exam. ‍Here are some creative ways⁣ to utilize practice materials to‍ enhance your test writing‌ abilities.

1. Familiarize yourself with different question types: Practice materials often​ provide⁤ a variety of⁣ question types, ⁤such as multiple choice, essay, or short answer. By working with these diverse formats, you‌ can become comfortable and proficient in tackling⁢ any kind of question⁢ that may appear on the test.

2. Improve your time management: Time is crucial⁢ during​ exams, so it’s⁢ important to practice working within ⁢time constraints. Utilize timed practice tests and exercises to simulate real‍ exam conditions. This will not only improve your ⁣ability to manage your time⁤ effectively but also train your mind to think quickly and efficiently.

Q: What are state test writing prompts? A: State test writing prompts refer to the essay questions or writing tasks given to students during standardized assessments. These‍ prompts are designed to evaluate their writing skills and abilities.

Q: ⁣Why is it important to prepare for standardized ‌assessments? A: Preparing for standardized assessments is crucial because they play a significant role in evaluating a student’s academic⁢ progress and determining their ‌readiness⁣ for the next level of ⁢education. Additionally, these ⁣tests often hold weight in college admissions and scholarship opportunities.

Q:‌ How can students effectively prepare for state test writing ‍prompts? A: Students can prepare for state test writing ‌prompts by practicing various ⁣ writing prompts regularly . They should focus on developing strong thesis ⁢statements , structuring their essays well, and using ⁢appropriate grammar and vocabulary.​ Additionally, time management skills are vital to ensure completing the essay within the allocated time.

Q: Are there any ⁢strategies ​for brainstorming ideas before writing an essay for state ⁤tests? A: Absolutely! Before writing, it is helpful ​to spend a few minutes brainstorming ideas⁤ related to the given prompt. This allows students⁣ to gather ⁤and organize their thoughts, ensuring ​a better flow in their essays. Techniques such as mind mapping, making ⁢bullet points, or listing down key points can aid in structuring their ideas effectively.

Q: How should students structure​ their essays for state‌ test writing prompts? A: ⁢To structure their essays for ⁢state test writing prompts, students should follow a clear⁣ introduction, body, and conclusion format. ​The introduction should provide background information and clearly state the thesis statement. The ‌body paragraphs should present well-supported arguments or evidence, and finally, the conclusion should summarize the⁤ main points and provide a closing remark.

Q: ⁢Are there any specific writing techniques students should utilize in their essays? A: Yes, students should aim to incorporate a variety of​ writing techniques to enhance the quality of their essays. These may include the‌ use of persuasive ​language, literary devices like metaphors or similes, strong examples or anecdotes, and cohesive transitions between different paragraphs or ⁢ideas.

Q: How can students manage their time‌ effectively during the test? A: Time management during a state test is crucial. Students should allocate a specific amount of time for planning,‌ writing, ‍and revising their essays. It’s recommended to spend a‍ few minutes brainstorming ‍and ⁣outlining⁢ before diving into writing. ⁤Keeping an eye on the clock ⁢throughout the test ⁢helps students stay on track and ⁤ensures they have adequate time⁤ for‌ revisions, proofreading, and making any necessary improvements.

Q: Are there any⁣ additional resources or practice​ materials available for students to prepare for state test writing‍ prompts? A: Yes, various resources can assist students in preparing for⁣ state test‌ writing ⁢prompts. Practice books, online resources, and official ​test prep websites offer sample prompts and essay topics​ to practice with. Additionally, seeking guidance⁣ from teachers or participating in writing workshops can further‌ enhance​ students’ writing skills and boost their confidence ​in⁣ tackling state test prompts.

Preparing for ‌standardized assessments can be daunting, but practicing ‌with state test ‌writing prompts can help students excel and feel confident.

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Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) Additional Resources

Download and practice with free TSIA2 sample test questions, essay prompts, and review other resources.

Instructions

Download and practice with free sample questions..

There are sample questions available for the English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) test and the Mathematics test.

Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 ELAR Sample Questions

Sample questions from the TSIA2 ELAR test.

Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 Mathematics Sample Questions

Sample questions from the TSIA2 Mathematics test.

Download sample TSIA2 essay prompts and view scored essays.

TSIA2 essay guides show you the types of prompts you might see on the TSIA2 tests, as well as examples of responses to those prompts, the scores they received, and why they received those scores.

Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 Essay Test Guide with Sample Essays

A guide to the TSIA2 Essay Test (also referred to as WritePlacer). Includes scored sample essays.

Additional Resources

Learn more about TSIA2.

Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0: Student Information Brochure

Learn more about what the TSIA2 is and how it works.

Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0: Interpreting Your Score

Learn more about what your TSIA2 score means.

TSI Practice Test

If you need help studying for the TSI test or just want some more information about what the test is like, you’ve come to the right place.

Click below to take a free TSI practice test!

Subject-Specific Practice Tests

If you need some extra practice in a specific subject, click one of the subjects below to get started on a subject-specific TSI practice test.

What’s on the TSI Test?

Before we look at the specifics of the TSI test, it’s important to note that there are two different versions of the test you may have to take: the CRC test and the diagnostic test.

CRC vs. Diagnostic

The test you’re given first is called the College Readiness Classification (CRC) test. This is used to determine whether you’re ready for college-level reading, writing, and math. If you don’t perform well on a section of this test, you’ll be given that section again via a second test called the diagnostic test. This test contains slightly more detailed questions that are designed to pinpoint your specific weak points.

TSI Test Outline

The CRC version of the TSI test contains 50 questions and is split into two main parts: English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) and Mathematics.

The reading-focused questions are designed to test how well you comprehend and analyze what you read, while the writing-focused questions are designed to test how well you can revise and edit sentences, paragraphs, and essays.

In addition to these 30 multiple-choice questions, you will be asked to write an essay. The essay portion requires you to write 300-600 words in response to a given prompt. The whole point of the essay is to show how well you grasp the following qualities:

• Purpose and focus
• Organization and structure
• Development and support
• Sentence variety and style
• Mechanical conventions
• Critical thinking
• Quantitative reasoning
• Algebraic reasoning
• Geometric and spatial reasoning
• Probabilistic and statistical reasoning

It’s important to note that you will not be able to use a handheld calculator on this section of the test. A built-in calculator will pop up on the screen for some more difficult questions.

The diagnostic version of the test contains 48 multiple-choice questions per section and covers the same topics as the CRC test.

How to Register

To get started with the registration process, you’ll need to contact the college you’re planning to attend to (or the one you’re already enrolled in). Each school has its own set of requirements and processes for registration.

TSI Study Guide and Flashcards

Get practice questions, detailed study lessons, and complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts.

Once you have completed the test, the hard part is over!

The multiple-choice questions for the ELAR and Math sections of the CRC test are scored on a scale of 310 to 990, and the essay is scored on a scale of 1 to 8. For the diagnostic test, all sections are scored on a scale of 1 to 6.

On your score report, which you should receive as soon as you finish the test, you’ll find one of the following three score levels:

• Basic: you need significant improvement in the subject area
• Proficient there’s some room for improvement in the content area
• Advanced you’ve shown exemplary skills in the content area

These are the college readiness benchmarks for the TSI test:

For the ELAR section, you need a CRC score between 945 and 990. You also need a score of at least 5 on the essay.

If your CRC score is below 945, you’ll need to take the diagnostic test and score at least a 5 on both the multiple-choice section and the essay.

For the Math section, you need a CRC score between 950 and 990.

If your CRC score is below 950, you’ll need to take the diagnostic test and get a score of at least 6.

Online TSI Prep Course

If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online TSI prep course. The course is designed to provide you with any and every resource you might want while studying. The TSI course includes:

• Review Lessons Covering Every Topic
• 1,250+ TSI Practice Questions
• More than 500 Digital Flashcards
• Over 220 Instructional Videos
• Money-back Guarantee
• Free Mobile Access

The TSI prep course is designed to help any learner get everything they need to prepare for their TSI exam. Click below to check it out!

What is TSI?

TSI is the Texas Success Initiative, which is a program mandated by the law to assist Texas public schools in determining whether students are ready for introductory college courses.

How many questions are on the TSI?

There are 50 multiple-choice questions on the CRC version of the TSI test. The diagnostic test contains 48 questions per section.

How can you be exempt from the TSI test?

You may be exempt from the TSI test (or just one section) if you meet other college readiness benchmarks via other standardized tests, like the ACT or SAT.

How long is the TSI test?

The TSI is actually not a timed test! Some schools recommend 2 hours for the writing questions and 1 hour for the reading and math questions.

Self-Assessment Modules

• Intermediate Math
• Advanced Mathematics
• Basic Algebra
• Intermediate Algebra
• Advanced Algebra
• Averages and Rounding
• Estimation and Sequences
• Exponents 2
• Fractions and Square Roots
• Measurement
• Percents and Ratios
• Basic Grammar
• Intermediate Grammar
• Advanced Grammar
• Reading for the Main Idea
• Basic Reading Comprehension
• Advanced Reading Comprehension
• Author's Purpose
• Reading Vocabulary
• Sentence Correction
• Sentence Flow
• Word Usage Test 1
• Word Usage Test 2
• Word Usage Test 3
• Writing Section 1
• Writing Section 2

TSIA2 Essay Guide

You’ve been spending late nights and gone days with little sleep answering hundreds, maybe thousands, of practice multiple choice questions preparing you for the TSIA2 test. You think you’ve got the math portion down pretty well, you’ve nailed down the language arts portion, and you’ve read enough reading passages to know these formats and questions by heart.

But then comes the part where multiple choice doesn’t matter, and where studying sometimes doesn’t come into play. It’s more about how you structure, argue, detail, and lay out a position. It also includes having a strategy and being able to think quickly.

Below, we will break down what the TSIA2 essay requires, providing you with some basic information about what to expect, tips to scoring high marks, resources that can help you score well, and sample exemplary essays to review.

What is the TSI Essay?

The essay portion of the TSIA2 will require you to read a short passage on an important and debatable topic. There will then be instructions that include picking a side or point of view and writing a persuasive essay defending your position.

You will be required write approximately 300 to 600 words, scored on the following key areas:

• Organization/Structure: Your paragraphs should be properly set with an introduction, body paragraphs for each main point, and a conclusion. The paper should flow from one idea to another with transitions connecting points and details.
• Purpose/Focus: Stay on topic and ensure you’re clearly addressing the issue at hand. Present your information in a unified and coherent way, writing with passion and not deserting your support for your position.
• Mechanical Conventions: Use proper grammar, punctuation, and capitalization; display mastery of the English language. Common words should be spelled correctly. Many of the things that were included in the writing section of the ELA exam will be included here.
• Development/Support: Back up your position with evidence and support. Provide examples from the text in your writing and ensure these reinforce your position. Make sure your writing supports your developed thesis statement. Provide clear explanations throughout your writing and include a call to action.
• Sentence Variety and Style :  Vary your word choice. Write in active voice and use strong action verbs while maintaining a consistent point-of-view.
• Critical Thinking: Offer logical arguments that are well-presented, well-reasoned, and well-supported. Present your position in a way that is convincing to the average reader. Use valid supporting strategies, including ethos, logos, and pathos techniques.  

The most important thing to remember about the scoring process is that it’s not about what you argue but rather how you argue. The administrators grading your exam are not going to sit there and penalize you if you take a position that’s not a popular one or that disagrees with their view. If this is a concern you have, you can rest assured that won’t be the issue.

Instead, they will grade you on how you make your case. They want to see that you fully understand the topic and are able to successfully make an argument using proper details and evidence.

Keep these grading areas in mind as you write. You will be given a score from 1 to 8, with 8 being the top score. While there is no time limit for your essay, you will be required to complete it as part of the entire TSIA2 examination.

Steps to Writing the Perfect TSIA2 Essay

Take a deep breath and relax. Many students are intimidated by the essay portion, but it’s not as complex as some make it out to be. You just need to know the basics of what the person grading the essay is looking for and then execute that.

Here, we’ve provided you with seven simple steps to writing the perfect essay. Make sure you read these points thoroughly. We also included examples of model essays to look over so you can better see what a perfect paper will look like prior to submitting it.

1. Do Your Due Diligence Ahead of Time

It’s true that you can’t necessarily study for the essay like you can the math and reading portion; however, you can plan, prepare, and even do practice essays. Part of the planning process includes knowing exactly what the administrators grading your essay are looking for. Review the scoring criteria and know the six factors detailed above that will impact your score.

2. Have a Plan on Time and Length

A common complaint from many students writing an essay is they didn’t get a chance to fully write their paper because they ran out of time. One of the reasons for them running out of time is they were writing too much.

Failing to plan is planning to fail.

In terms of length, the essay is required to be 300 to 600 words. Try to keep it within that range. Some students think that they can get extra points for impressing the evaluator with a 1,000-word argument. This is not the case.

Do your best to keep it within the 300 to 600-word limit and have a plan on how long you are going to spend on each portion prior to moving on. For example, if you have 60 minutes left to write your essay, take 10 minutes to read and possibly re-read the prompt, jotting down notes. Then take another 20 minutes to brainstorm and organize, making an outline and taking out key points from the text that you want to include in your paper.

That gives you 30 minutes to fully write the paper. If you properly organize yourself, you can write this in just 20–25 minutes, giving you five minutes to read it over and ensure you have included everything you need.

While it’s impossible to be able to tell how much time you’ll have left to write following the Language Arts and Math section, be prepared for the possibility of not having much time, especially if you’re a slow test taker. The best way to accomplish this is by doing a practice essay. Have a stopwatch and properly plan your time so you don’t get caught off guard if you only have 45 or 60 minutes left to write your essay.

3. Take Notes and Read Closely

Once you are handed the passage, read the article thoroughly. The administrator will provide you with scratch paper; be sure to use it. As you read, highlight important parts and begin dissecting the key parts as you move along. You should start to get an idea of a direction you will go as you go along.

Another important thing to consider is taking a stance that is easiest to argue. It doesn’t always have to necessarily be one you agree with, but if you can make a better case for one side over the other in your paper, it’s best to go in that direction. Again, remember that the evaluator isn’t grading you on what your opinion on an issue is — they only care about how you make your case and the structure you include.

4. Brainstorm

You’ve read the article, maybe twice. You’ve done your highlighting and made some notes as you read. Now you need to brainstorm what you are going to talk about.

This is where the scratch paper they give you takes on even more importance. For many, making a simple outline of how they want the paper to look like is the perfect technique for structuring your paper. This significantly helps you with step three below, which is organizing and structuring your essay.

Don’t start writing until you’ve written all your thoughts down. On the scratch paper, write your main points and make sub-categories providing details to those points. Most importantly, include evidence from your reading in your outline. This also will help you with organizing your paper, as textual evidence is a critical part of scoring well on your essay.

5. Organize Your Essay

Structure and format is key when laying out your position. Don’t overthink it; in fact, just go back to the days when you learned how to write a five-paragraph essay. When making an argument, it’s a very similar organization. The essay doesn’t necessarily have to be five paragraphs (it can be four, as in the example built throughout these steps), but it will need the structure of an introduction, body paragraphs with each main point being a paragraph of its own, and a conclusion that summarizes your main points.

Begin with a hook that draws the reader in. This can be a quote that stands out in what you read, a glaring and passionate statement that garners attention, or even a question. Finish your introduction by setting up the rest of your paper with a thesis statement, which should be one sentence in which you present your stance and the general reasons for defending it. That being said, don’t overthink your introduction. Keep it short and sweet, no more than a few sentences.

From there, split your paper into paragraphs, with each paragraph highlighting a new point. Within those points, be sure to include details. The administrators want to see evidence and see that you properly use passages and examples from the text in your essay. This can’t be stressed enough. If you fail to include textual evidence, you will be penalized. However, if you can illustrate to the administrator that you can argue your point and use examples from the passage to back up your point, you will be rewarded no matter if the person grading the article agrees with your point or not.

Imagine the following is your essay prompt:

“All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me. You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.” – Walt Disney

“Is a kick in the teeth” really the best thing in the world for you, and can it truly make you a stronger person?

Sample introduction

Sometimes we have to take a step back in order to move two steps forward. Some may think that when we face a “kick in the teeth,” as Walt Disney put it, or are knocked down, it weakens us and we should simply accept defeat and move on with our life. Instead, we should use it as a learning opportunity to elevate ourselves and make us better. When Michael Jordan was left off the varsity basketball team and was recognized as the “second best Jordan” athlete in the family, he didn’t just “shrug it off.” When Abraham Lincoln lost an election and kept getting bad breaks, he didn’t give up. Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln are two perfect examples of people who strengthened themselves after “getting a kick in the teeth.”

This introduction sets up the rest of the essay, which will focus on how Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln both faced troubles in their life and experienced a setback but overcame those obstacles. The thesis statement – the last sentence of the introduction – leads you right into the rest of the paper.

6. Connect Your Ideas with Transitions

Part of the grading criteria is your paper’s flow, or the proper connecting of ideas from start to end. One way to do this is through transitions. Here are some good transitions to use throughout your paper:

• Going from point to point (or idea to idea): First, Second, Next, In addition to, Further, Another…
• Changing directions (counterpointing): However, Even though, While, On the other hand…
• Beginning conclusion: All in all, Clearly, To summarize, In conclusion…

7. Be All In and All About It!

Do not, and we repeat, DO NOT, be 50/50, 70/30, or even 90/10 on a stance. You are 100% in on your position and you don’t stray from it. The grader wants to see that you are committed to an argument and can fully make the case using textual evidence. In the example above, don’t argue how Michael Jordan was able to make himself stronger from not making the varsity team or overcome his father’s death to better himself, but then say, “However, there have been moments where Jordan got a kick in the teeth and gave in.” Once you’ve solidified your position, you are all in.

On top of that, write with passion. Show that you care about what you’re arguing. Ask questions throughout the article that make the reader think. Use effective ethos, pathos, and logos techniques as you move along from start to finish.

8. Recognize the Opposing View

This is the part that a lot of essay writers struggle with: They don’t acknowledge the other side. You need to know the opposing view’s main points, recognize them, and bring them up. Then, you offer counterpoints to demonstrate why your view is stronger and back it up with details.

This is an important part of winning an argument or debate. It illustrates that you are educated on the topic and have thoroughly considered all sides before taking a stance. By making the other side’s point and effectively countering, you are making a positive impression on the administrator reading your essay, displaying that you properly know how to argue an issue.

Here’s a model body paragraph from the sample above about making yourself stronger from a setback.

Abraham Lincoln faced many obstacles and setbacks growing up, but he never gave in. When he was just 22 years old, he started a business that failed. Instead of settling for something less, he tried to do something where he could influence others and got into politics. However, he lost election after election, trying to run for state representative and the U.S. Senate. But Lincoln persevered, learned from his mistakes, and eventually ran for U.S. President and won after never giving up. Additionally, when he was president, he faced major backlash for his positions on slavery and his unwillingness to compromise with the South’s secession. While a compromise with those in opposition was always an option for Lincoln to take, his previous experiences with failure taught him how to persevere, and thus he was able to achieve more for his legacy and the country than he would have without knowing how to face “a kick in the teeth.” His previous challenges were a key factor in knowing how — and why — to overcome the biggest adversity of his life.

In the bold part, the writer introduces the other side, saying that it was possible for Lincoln to avoid conflict by simply “taking his beating” and give in. However, the writer comes back with a counterpoint, saying that because Lincoln didn’t give in and instead persevered, both he and America became stronger in the long run. This counterpoint shows the value of facing and overcoming adversity in a way that would not be possible without addressing the opposing view.

9. Don’t Overthink the Conclusion

This is where you can take a deep breath because you’re almost done. The conclusion should be the easiest part of your paper and the least time-consuming.

Don’t overanalyze it. This can be 50 words or fewer. Simply summarize your argument and restate your thesis. You have the option of finishing it off with an impactful statement that fully makes the paper come full circle. Maybe it ties back into your hook, which is always a good way to impress the reader. 

Here’s an example of a simple and effective conclusion from the model above on Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln becoming stronger from their setbacks:

Clearly, Michael Jordan and Abraham Lincoln became stronger as a result of their failures. Because of their troubles and obstacles, they used a “kick in the teeth” as a learning experience and a way to make themselves stronger. As a result, they became two of the most influential people in history in sports, politics, and leadership. Jordan and Lincoln both took a step or two back, but took giant leaps forward and taught a lot of people a positive and valuable lesson.

10. Read Your Essay Over

Hopefully, you’ll have enough time left over where you can proofread your essay and check for mistakes. First and foremost, make sure your essay fully answers the prompt. Go through each of the grading criteria and ensure you’ve met each key area.

If you have extra time, you can always do little things to improve your paper, like adding stronger word choice in different areas and adding a good call to action at the end of the paper if you haven’t already.

Final Thoughts and Tips

You shouldn’t be afraid of the essay section. Instead, you should be motivated and excited. No more answering questions with a right or wrong answer. No more reading passage after passage trying to figure out what the main idea is. No more dealing with numbers and answering a bunch of questions that other people wrote. Now, you have control. You have the power. With the essay portion, you get to speak your mind, make your argument, and be convincing. It’s always important to attack the essay with confidence; don’t let the essay attack you.

While all of these tips are important, the most important is to truly have a plan. Go into the essay knowing what you need to do and how you need to accomplish it. By doing that, you have already won half the battle. Get a good night’s sleep and write as if your future depends on it, because, in some ways, it does.

Again, do as much preparation as you can. Read as many model essays as possible, and even do some practice essays. It doesn’t hurt even getting into a debate with a friend on a controversial topic, whether it be through an email or in person, where you practice making main points and backing it up with details. This is always a great way to get in the frame of mind of backing up a point or opinion with facts and proper supporting techniques.

Just remember to be confident and have the mentality the you are going to succeed. Best of luck to you!

TSIA2 Test Prep

• About the Test

TSIA Practice Test

• TSIA2 Practice Tests - Accuplacer Once you've created an account, you'll have access to TSIA2 practice tests resembling actual tests.

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Tips and strategies.

• You will not need any outside knowledge . You will not need any technical information or understanding of specific sources.  Everything you need to answer the question will be part of the prompt.
• Select one side only .  Take a strong side on the issue you are presenting otherwise your argument will be weak.
• You will not be scored on your opinion .  Write from the view of whatever side is easiest for you to argue.  You will not receive a lower score based on personal bias.
• Don't change your position!  Keep on the same side of your argument from beginning to end.  Remember, you are allowed to request scratch paper which is a great place to write a quick outline to help you stay on topic.
• Debunk opposing arguments.   If you know the opposite side of the argument, you can argue against those points.  Just make sure you are effectively criticizing the opposite argument, otherwise your argument will appear weak.
• Your introduction and conclusion should be brief.  Keep you introduction to three or four sentences and your conclusion to one or two sentences.  The majority of your time should be spent on writing the body of your paragraphs!
• Use transition words!  This helps with the flow of your pape and makes it easier for your reader to understanding that you are moving onto another paragraph.

Essay Guidelines

The TSI essay will be evaluated on your organization, focus, development and support, sentence structure, and mechanical conventions. A simple 5 paragraph essay will help you structure your paper in an clear and concise manner.

Paragraph 1 (3-4 sentences)

• Introduce the topic.
• Express your opinion on the topic.
• Your thesis statement should be the final sentence.

Paragraph 2 (4-6 sentences)

• Provide your best point first.
• Be specific in your example.  You can pull from history, science, politics, business, entertainment, current events, personal experience, etc.
• Explain how your point supports your thesis. 

Paragraph 3 (4-6 sentences)

• Use a transition phrase in the first sentence.
• Provide a new point.  You shouldn't repeat a previously stated point.

Paragraph 4 (4-6 sentences)

Paragraph 5 (2-4 sentences).

• Reinforce how your thesis is correct.
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• Last Updated: May 21, 2024 2:32 PM
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How To Improve Student Writing Scores on the State Test

One area that is particularly troublesome for language arts teachers is that the writing portion is scored by a computer. How is it possible to take something as complex as grading an essay and reduce it to work that can be done by a machine? It’s very frustrating to have the countless hours that we spend grading reduced to something that can be done by a program.

How does the computer score the state tests? We don’t exactly know. However, there are a few things that we know the computer is looking for, and ways to help make those things visible.

So here are four things students MUST do in order to score well on the test and how you can help students prepare.

Many students are used to typing on a computer or device that automatically identifies, and in some cases corrects, errors. Those students who take the test on a computer or device need to be aware that there is no such feature on the test. And those who are writing by hand need to be looking for the errors that they made in the mad dash to finish an essay. Unlike a human grader, the computer may not recognize a misspelled word as what it is. However, it will definitely catch run-ons and fragments.

How to teach it : Emphasize that students need to allocate time to proofread their work. Emphasize it as a skill with every assignment. For example, if you give time for students to write a paragraph as an exit slip, instruct them to use the last minute or two before the bell rings to check over their work. We want proofreading to become something that students automatically do.

As the school year progresses, keep track of the errors that students are most likely to make as you see them in writing. I also have a bundle that addresses the most common errors students are likely to make in writing in fun comics and activities .

Have a thesis at the end of the introduction.

Yes, it’s formulaic and yes, there are other places you can put it. However, this is the best place to put your thesis if someone (or in this case some thing ) is looking for it. Also, a thesis shouldn’t be a question like: “Should museums charge admission?” or a statement like: “Read below to find out  whether or not museum admission should be free.” A thesis statement must clearly state a position on an issue which will then be supported with evidence.

How to teach it : Thesis statements are part of regular instruction already, but emphasize what it should look like and where to put it. You can also have students practice thesis statements without writing an entire paper. Have them read an article or two and craft a thesis statement that they  would  use in a paper on this topic. Collect them on the way out and you’ll have a good idea in a couple of minutes how well they can write one.

Adding citations.

Students should be quoting from the passages. However, because there is more than one passage, they need to identify which passage their quotes come from. According to samples from past tests, it seems like you can either identify the passage by the author (“Robert Smith says …”) or by the passage (“In Passage 1 it says …”). Direct quotes are good – the computer will recognize that quotes are being used – but you shouldn’t quote too much. However, identifying the passage is critical as well.

How to teach it : First off, make sure students aren’t just writing an opinion piece that doesn’t use facts at all, which I suspect is a reason many students don’t score well.

Make sure you are giving students more than one passage to use as sources for assignments. For example, a lot of teachers use articles of the week regularly. Instead of giving students one article, give them two ask them to pull facts from both. When you discuss the article, have them identify the passage as they give their facts.

Address counterarguments.

The writing prompts for the state test ask students to address counterarguments to their claims. For years I taught 5 paragraph essays in which students stated three reasons to support an opinion, but weren’t asked to address the other side. Because of that, students might be inclined to neglect that they have to address what the other side would say. I would guess that this is the main reason that students don’t score well on the test is that they neglect this task, either because they haven’t been asked to do it, or because they don’t read the directions and know they should do it.

How to teach it : Throughout the year have students engage in persuasive tasks in which they must consider the other side and argue against that opinion. For example, we read two articles about Iowa schools that teach gun safety as part of physical education – one for and one against. Students had to take a side, but they also had to choose a point from the other side to dispute. You can also ask questions like: “What might the other side say? And why might they feel that way?” during class discussions in order to get students thinking about other points of view.

A Handy State Test Writing Visual!

I created this handout as a visual for students as they prepare for the test. It has all of the tips I addressed above as well as some other general suggestions. If you’d like a free copy of this handout, click below. You’ll also be added to my email list and get other great ELA tips delivered right to your inbox.

It’s easy to think that if we are doing test prep we aren’t teaching anything else. But in fact the skills that students need to do well on the writing section – writing thesis statements, using facts and citing them appropratiely- are skills that students need to have no matter what they write. True, we have to outwit the computer that grades these essay a little bit. But we only need to modify our instruction a little bit to sharpen these skills for the task. And in the end that’s what good instruction is all about – knowing how to respond appropriately to whatever task you’re given.

Here are some other blog posts on writing you might enjoy:

Writing Rubrics That Give You Back Your Weekends

Building Better Topic Sentences

Mini Timed Writings: Getting Students to Write More Without More Grading

A Workshop Approach to Essay Planning

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Practice and Training Test Resources

These resources support the practice and training tests for the CAASPP and ELPAC. Do not use any of these scoring guides, PFAs, DFAs, or performance task rubrics when administering the summative assessments.

To administer or find other information about practice or training tests, visit the Practice and Training Tests web page.

CAASPP Smarter Balanced for English Language Arts/Literacy (ELA)

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The following are key differences to consider when using these practice test and training test resources to prepare for the Initial ELPAC and Summative ELPAC:

• The online ELPAC practice tests can be used to prepare for either the Initial ELPAC or the Summative ELPAC. The online ELPAC practice tests are based on the full-length Summative ELPAC. However, these practice tests can also be used to prepare students for the Initial ELPAC since the task types used in the Initial ELPAC are a subset of the task types appearing in the Summative ELPAC.
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• The Initial ELPAC is combined for grades nine through twelve. Students may use the ELPAC practice test for grade span nine and ten or grade span eleven and twelve to prepare for the Initial ELPAC.

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The ELPAC Writing domain for kindergarten through grade two is administered as a paper–pencil test.

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The following are key differences from the operational assessments to consider when using these practice test and training test resources to prepare for the Initial Alternate ELPAC and Summative Alternate ELPAC:

• The online Alternate ELPAC practice tests can be used to prepare for either the Initial Alternate ELPAC or the Summative Alternate ELPAC. The online Alternate ELPAC practice tests are based on the full-length Initial Alternate ELPAC and Summative Alternate ELPAC.
• The Initial Alternate ELPAC is combined for grades nine through twelve. Students may use the Alternate ELPAC practice test for grade span nine and ten or grade span eleven and twelve to prepare for the Initial Alternate ELPAC.

Practice Test Picture Cards

For the Alternate ELPAC, test examiners have the ability to use picture cards during the student's test administration. Picture cards are a resource used for students who communicate using picture cards or an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device. These picture cards should not be substituted during operational test administration. Print or upload the picture cards to the student's AAC device as appropriate. All of the practice test picture cards for each grade level or grade span can be accessed via the following link:

Answer Choice Cards

Test examiners have the option to use answer choice cards that are available as a stand-alone PDF. Some students communicate using picture cards or answer choice cards. If test examiners do not have standardized answer choice cards for use in the classroom, they may use the answer choice cards accessed via the following link:

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