The Pennsylvania System
of School Assessment
Pennsylvania Department of Education Bureau of Curriculum, Assessment, and Instruction—September 2015
2015–2016
Grade 6
English Language Arts
Item and Scoring Sampler
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 ii
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................1
English Language Arts Grade 6 ............................................................................3
Section 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Passage 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Multiple-Choice Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Evidence-Based Selected-Response Question ........................................................12
Multiple-Choice Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Evidence-Based Selected-Response Question ........................................................16
Multiple-Choice Question ...........................................................................17
Text-Dependent Analysis Question . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Text-Dependent Analysis Question Scoring Guideline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Text-Dependent Analysis Question Student Responses ...............................................24
Passage 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Multiple-Choice Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Evidence-Based Selected-Response Question ........................................................51
Passage 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Multiple-Choice Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Evidence-Based Selected-Response Question ........................................................61
Text-Dependent Analysis Question . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Text-Dependent Analysis Question Scoring Guideline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Text-Dependent Analysis Question Student Responses ...............................................68
Passage 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Multiple-Choice Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Evidence-Based Selected-Response Questions .......................................................96
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS .............................................................................. 98
Section 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Standalone Multiple-Choice Questions...................................................................101
Section 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Argumentative Writing Prompt ..........................................................................117
Argumentative Writing Prompt—4-Point Mode-Specific Scoring Guideline ..........................120
Argumentative Writing Prompt Student Responses..................................................122
Informative/Explanatory Writing Prompt .................................................................133
Informative/Explanatory Writing Prompt—4-Point Mode-Specific Scoring Guideline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .136
Informative/Explanatory Writing Prompt Student Responses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138
Narrative Writing Prompt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149
Narrative Writing Prompt—4-Point Mode-Specific Scoring Guideline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152
Narrative Writing Prompt Student Responses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 1
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INTRODUCTION
General Introduction
The Pennsylvania Department of Education provides districts and schools with tools to assist in delivering focused
instructional programs aligned with the Pennsylvania Core Standards (PCS). These tools include assessment anchor
documents, assessment handbooks, and content-based item and scoring samplers. This Item and Scoring Sampler
is a useful tool for Pennsylvania educators to use in preparing local instructional programs. It can also be useful in
preparing students for the statewide assessment.
Pennsylvania Core Standards (PCS)
This sampler contains examples of test questions and stimulus passages that are aligned to the new Pennsylvania
Core Standards-based 2013 PSSA Assessment Anchors and Eligible Content. The Mathematics, Reading, and Writing
PSSA transitioned to PCS-based operational Mathematics and English Language Arts assessments starting with the
spring 2015 PSSA.
The 2013 PCS-aligned Assessment Anchor and Eligible Content documents are posted on this portal:
www.education.pa.gov [Hover over K–12, select “Assessment and Accountability,” and select “Pennsylvania
System of School Assessment (PSSA).” Then select “Assessment Anchors” from the “Other Materials” list on
the right side of the screen.]
What Is Included
This sampler contains stimulus reading passages with test questions, standalone questions, and mode-specific
writing prompts that have been written to align to the Assessment Anchors that are based on the Pennsylvania
Core Standards (PCS). The passages represent some of the genres approved by PDE to appear on an operational,
PCS-based PSSA. The test questions provide an idea of the types of items that may appear on an operational,
PCS-based PSSA. Each sample test question has been through a rigorous review process to ensure alignment with
the Assessment Anchors.
Purpose and Uses
The passages with test questions, non-passage based standalone questions, and mode-specific writing prompts in
this sampler may be used as examples for creating assessment items at the classroom level. The sampler may also
be copied and used as part of a local instructional program.
1
In addition, classroom teachers may find it beneficial
to have students respond to the test questions in this sampler. Educators can use the sampler as a guide to score
the responses independently or together with colleagues within a school or district.
1
The permission to copy and/or use these materials does not extend to commercial purposes.
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Item Format and Scoring Guidelines
The PCS-based PSSA has multiple types of test questions. For grade 6, the types of test questions are Multiple-
Choice questions (MC), Evidence-Based Selected-Response questions (EBSR), Text-Dependent Analysis questions
(TDA), and mode-specific Writing Prompts(WP).
Multiple Choice: Each of this type of test question has four answer choices. Some MC test questions are based on a
stimulus reading passage, while other MC test questions are independent of a passage. Each correct response to an
MC test question is worth one point.
Evidence-Based Selected Response: Each two-part EBSR question is designed to elicit an evidence-based
response from a student who has read either a Literature or Informational Text passage. In Part One, which is similar
to a multiple-choice question, the student analyzes a passage and chooses the best answer from four answer
choices. In Part Two, the student utilizes evidence from the passage to select one or more answers based on his/
her response to Part One. Part Two is different from a multiple-choice question in that there may be more than four
answer options and more than one correct answer. Each EBSR test question is worth either two or threepoints, and
students can receive partial credit for providing a correct response to Part One or for providing one or more correct
responses in Part Two.
Text-Dependent Analysis: Unlike a writing prompt, the TDA question is a text-dependent analysis question, based
on a passage or passage set that each student has read during the test event. There are three response pages in the
paper-and-pencil format and up to 5000 characters in the online format. Both Literature and Informational Texts
are addressed through this item type. Students must employ basic writing skills while inferring and synthesizing
information from the passage in order to develop a comprehensive, holistic essay response. The demand required
of a student’s reading and writing skills in response to a TDA coincides with the similar demands required for a
student to be college and career ready. The TDA is scored using a holistic scoring guideline on a 1–4-point scale.
Writing Prompt: Each of this type of test question includes an extended response space in which the student
composes an answer based on a provided writing prompt. There are two response pages in the paper-and-pencil
format and up to 3000 characters in the online format. A writing prompt is based on a specific mode of writing and
may ask the student to write an argumentative essay, an informative/explanatory essay, or a narrative essay. Each
writing prompt is scored on a 1–4-point scale using a holistic, mode-specific scoring guideline. In this sampler,
examples of student responses representing each score point can be combined with the mode-specific scoring
guideline to form a practical scoring guide.
Testing Time and Mode of Testing Delivery for the PCS-Based PSSA
The PSSA is delivered in traditional paper-and-pencil format as well as in an online format. The estimated time to
respond to a test question is the same for both methods of test delivery. The following table shows the estimated
response time for each item type.
During an official test administration, students are given as much additional time as is necessary to complete the
test questions.
Item Type MC EBSR TDA WP
Estimated Response Time
(in minutes)
1.5 3 to 5 45 30
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English Language Arts Grade 6
This English Language Arts Sampler is composed of 4 passages, 31 passage-based multiple-choice questions,
6evidence-based selected-response questions, 2 text-dependent analysis questions, 18 standalone multiple-choice
questions, and 3 mode-specific writing prompts.
In this sampler, the first passage is followed by a set of multiple-choice questions, evidence-based selected-
response questions, and a text-dependent analysis question. The second passage is followed by a set of multiple-
choice questions and an evidence-based selected-response question. The third passage is followed by a set of
multiple-choice questions, an evidence-based selected-response question, and a text-dependent analysis question.
The fourth passage is followed by a set of multiple-choice questions and evidence-based selected-response
questions.
Each question is preceded by the Assessment Anchor and Eligible Content coding. The correct answer is indicated
by an asterisk (
*). Each question is followed by a brief analysis or rationale. Each text-dependent analysis question is
displayed with an item-specific scoring guideline and examples of student responses with scores and annotations.
Sample student responses for each of the scoring levels are also included for the writing prompts.
The PCS-Based PSSA may be administered in paper-and-pencil format or online. As a result, this sampler
includes samples of text-dependent analysis question responses and mode-specific writing prompt responses
in both formats. A sample online response is noted by the symbol,
.
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Section 1
Directions: On the following pages are the Reading passages and questions.
Directions for Multiple-Choice Questions:
Some questions will ask you to select an answer from among four choices.
For the multiple-choice questions:
• First, read the passage carefully.
• Read each question and choose the best answer.
• Only one of the answers provided is correct.
• You may look back at the passage to help you answer the question.
• Record your choice in the answer booklet.
Directions for Evidence-Based Selected-Response Questions:
Some questions will have two parts and will ask you to select one or more answers in
each part.
For the evidence-based selected-response questions:
• Read Part One of the question and choose the best answer.
• You may look back at the passage to help you answer Part One of the question.
• Record your choice to Part One in the answer booklet.
• Only one of the answers provided in Part One is correct.
• Then, read Part Two of the question and choose the evidence to support your
answer in Part One. If Part Two tells you to select two answers, be sure to select
two answers.
• You may look back at the passage to help you answer Part Two of the question.
• Record your answer or answers to Part Two in the answer booklet.
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Directions for Text-Dependent Analysis (TDA) Question:
The English Language Arts TDA question will ask you to analyze the passage and use
evidence from the passage to write an essay.
For the TDA essay:
• Be sure to read the passage and TDA question carefully.
• Review the Writer’s Checklist to help you plan and organize your response.
• You may look back at the passage to help you write your essay.
• Write your essay in the appropriate space in the answer booklet. If you use scratch
paper to write a rough-draft essay, be sure to transfer your final essay to the answer
booklet.
• Be sure to check that your essay contains evidence from the passage to support
your response.
• Be sure to check your essay for errors in capitalization, spelling, sentence
formation, punctuation, and word choice.
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PASSAGE 1
The following passage and poem are about making soup. Read the passage and answer
questions 1–5. Then, read the poem and answer questions 6–11.
Nail Soup
a folktale from Sweden
There was once a man who went plodding his way through a forest. The distance between the
houses was so great that he had little hope of finding a shelter before the night set in. But all of
a sudden he saw some lights between the trees. He then discovered a cottage, where there was
a fire burning on the hearth. How nice it would be to roast one’s self before that fire, and to get a
bite of something, he thought, and so he dragged himself towards the cottage.
Just then a woman came toward him.
“Good evening, and well met!” said the man.
“Good evening,” said the woman. “Where do you come from?”
“South of the sun and east of the moon,” said the man, “and now I am on the way home again,
for I have been all over the world with the exception of this parish,” he said.
“You must be a great traveler, then,” said the woman. “What may be your business here?”
“Oh, I want a shelter for the night,” he said.
“I thought as much,” said the woman, “but you may as well get away from here at once, for my
husband is not at home and my place is not an inn,” she said.
“My good woman,” said the man, “you must not be so cross and hard-hearted, for we are both
human beings and should help one another, it is written.”
“Help one another?” said the woman. “Help? Did you ever hear such a thing? Who’ll help me,
do you think? I haven’t got a morsel in the house! No, you’ll have to look for quarters elsewhere,”
she said.
But the man did not consider himself beaten at the first rebuff. Although the woman grumbled
and complained as much as she could, he was just as persistent as ever and went on begging
until at last she gave in, and he got permission to lie on the floor for the night.
That was very kind, he thought, and he thanked her for it.
“Better on the floor without sleep, than suffer cold in the forest deep,” he said, for he was a
merry fellow, this man, and was always ready with a rhyme.
When he came into the room he could see that the woman was not so badly off as she had
pretended, but she was a greedy and stingy woman of the worst sort and was always complaining
and grumbling.
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He now made himself very agreeable, of course, and asked her in his most insinuating manner
for something to eat.
“Where am I to get it from?” said the woman. “I haven’t tasted a morsel myself the whole day.”
But the man was a cunning fellow, he was.
“Poor lady, you must be starving,” he said. “Well, well, I suppose I shall have to ask you to
have something with me, then.”
“Have something with you!” said the woman. “You don’t look as if you could ask anyone to
have anything! What have you got to offer one, I should like to know?”
“He who far and wide does roam sees many things not known at home, and he who many
things has seen has wits about him and senses keen,” said the man. “Lend me a pot!”
The woman now became very inquisitive, as you may guess, and so she let him have a pot.
He filled it with water and put it on the fire, and then he blew with all his might till the fire was
burning fiercely all round it. Then he took a four-inch nail from his pocket, turned it three times in
his hand, and put it into the pot.
The woman stared with all her might.
“What’s this going to be?” she asked.
“Nail broth,” said the man, and he began to stir the water with the porridge stick.
“Nail broth?” asked the woman.
“Yes, nail broth,” said the man.
The woman had seen and heard a good deal in her time, but that anybody could have made
broth with a nail, well, she had never heard the like before.
“That’s something for people to know,” she said, “and I should like to learn how to make it.”
But if she wanted to learn how to make it she had only to watch him, he said, and went on
stirring the broth.
The woman squatted on the ground, her hands clasping her knees and her eyes following his
hand as he stirred the broth.
“This generally makes good broth,” he said, “but this time it will very likely be rather thin, for
I have been making broth the whole week with the same nail. If one only had a handful of sifted
flour to put in, that would make it all right,” he said. “But what one has to go without, it’s no use
thinking more about,” and so he stirred the broth again.
“Well, I think I have a scrap of flour somewhere,” said the woman and went out to fetch some,
and it was both good and fine.
The man began putting the flour into the broth and went on stirring, while the woman sat
staring now at him and then at the pot until her eyes nearly burst their sockets.
“This broth would be good enough for company,” he said, putting in one handful of flour
after another. “If I had only a bit of salted beef and a few potatoes to put in, it would be fit for
gentlefolks, however particular they might be,” he said. “But what one has to go without, it’s no
use thinking more about.”
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When the woman really began to think it over, she thought she had some potatoes and
perhaps a bit of beef as well, and these she gave the man, who went on stirring, while she sat and
stared as hard as ever.
“This will be grand enough for the best in the land,” he said.
“Well, I never!” said the woman, “and just fancy—all with a nail!”
He was really a wonderful man! He could do more than drink a sup and turn the tankard
1
up,
he could.
“If one had only a little barley and a drop of milk, we could ask the king himself to have some of
it,” he said, “for this is what he has every blessed evening—that I know, for I have been in service
under the king’s cook,” he said.
“Dear me! Ask the king to have some! Well, I never!” exclaimed the woman, slapping her knees.
She was quite awestruck at the man and his grand connections.
“But what one has to go without, it’s no use thinking more about,” said the man.
And then she remembered she had a little barley, and as for milk, well, she wasn’t quite out of
that, she said, for her best cow had just calved. And then she went to fetch both the one and the
other.
The man went on stirring, and the woman sat staring, one moment at him and the next at the
pot.
Then all at once the man took out the nail.
“Now it’s ready, and now we’ll have a real good feast,” he said. “But to this kind of soup the
king and the queen always take one sandwich at least. And then they always have a cloth on the
table when they eat,” he said. “But what one has to go without, it’s no use thinking more about.”
But by this time the woman herself had begun to feel quite grand and fine, I can tell you; if that
was all that was wanted to make it just as the king had it, she thought it would be nice to have it
just the same way for once and play at being king and queen with the man. She went straight to a
cupboard and brought out the tea, butter and cheese, and smoked beef and veal, until at last the
table looked as if it were decked out for company.
Never in her life had the woman had such a grand feast, and never had she tasted such broth,
and just fancy, made only with a nail!
She was in such a good and merry humor at having learned such an economical way of
making broth that she did not know how to make enough of the man who had taught her such a
useful thing.
So they ate and drank, and drank and ate, until they became both tired and sleepy.
The man was now going to lie down on the floor. But that would never do, thought the woman;
no, that was impossible. “Such a grand person must have a bed to lie in,” she said.
1
tankard—a large cup for drinking a beverage
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 9
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He did not need much pressing. “A nicer woman I never came across. Ah, well! Happy are they
who meet with such good people,” said he, and he lay down on the bed and went asleep.
And next morning when he woke the first thing he got was coffee and a roll.
When he was going the woman gave him a bright dollar piece.
“And thanks, many thanks, for what you have taught me,” she said. “Now I shall live in comfort,
since I have learned how to make broth with a nail.”
“Well it isn’t very difficult, if one only has something good to add to it,” said the man as he went
his way.
The woman stood at the door staring after him.
“Such people don’t grow on every bush,” she said.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 10
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MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS
E06.A-V.4.1.1
1. Read the sentence from “Nail Soup.”
“ ‘No, you’ll have to look for quarters elsewhere,’ she said.”
Which meaning of the word quarters is used in the sentence?
A. living spaces
B. four parts
C. small sections
D. silver coins
The student is asked to use context clues to infer the correct meaning of a multiple-meaning word. OptionA
is the correct answer. In the passage, the words “shelter,” “home,” “ place,” and “inn” all suggest that “quarters”
relates to “living spaces.” Options B, C, and D are not supported by context clues in the passage.
E06.A-V.4.1.2
2. Read the sentence from “Nail Soup.”
“The man began putting the flour into the broth and went on stirring, while the woman sat
staring now at him and then at the pot until her eyes nearly burst their sockets.”
What does the hyperbole “until her eyes nearly burst their sockets” suggest?
A. The woman was watching very closely and for a long time.
B. The woman was having a difficult time seeing such a long distance away.
C. The woman’s eyes were very sore and painful.
D. The woman’s eyes were tired from her lack of sleep.
The student is asked to interpret the meaning of a phrase from the passage that contains figurative language.
Option A is the correct answer since the phrase “burst their sockets” suggests that the woman is staring
intently and for a long time. Option B is incorrect since there is no indication in the passage that the woman is
located a long distance from the pot. Option C is incorrect since it is a literal interpretation of the hyperbole.
Option D is not supported by context.
*
*
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E06.A-C.2.1.3
3. Read the sentence from “Nail Soup.”
“ ‘Such people don’t grow on every bush,’ she said.”
How does the author use figurative language in the sentence?
A. to show that the woman wants the man to find his own shelter
B. to reveal that the woman hopes the man will return to cook more soup
C. to suggest that the woman believes the man is unusually kind
D. to indicate that the woman thinks the man should use better food for the soup
The student is asked to determine how the author uses figurative language in a given sentence. Option C is
the correct answer since “such people” refers to the fact that the woman believes that the man is “unusually
kind.” Option A is not supported by information in the passage since the man already has found shelter at the
woman’s house. Option B is incorrect since the man is continuing his journey. Option D is incorrect since it is
not supported by information in the passage.
E06.A-C.2.1.1
4. How does the author develop the man’s point of view about the events in “Nail Soup”?
A. by describing the man’s experiences before making his nail soup
B. by revealing the man’s beliefs about the woman’s stinginess
C. by sharing the woman’s experiences with cooking nail soup
D. by explaining the woman’s beliefs about the man’s request for shelter
The student is asked to determine how the author develops the man’s point of view about the events in the
passage. Option B is the correct answer since the man expresses his thoughts about the woman’s stinginess.
Option A is incorrect since the man does not share his experiences before making the soup. Options C and D
are incorrect since the woman’s experiences do not provide insight into the man’s point of view.
*
*
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EVIDENCE-BASED SELECTED-RESPONSE QUESTION
E06.A-K.1.1.1
5. This question has two parts. Answer Part One and then answer Part Two.
Part One
Which generalization can best be made from “Nail Soup”?
A. People who have friends to help them are the happiest.
B. It is best to find lodging on a trip before nighttime.
C. People who are persistent are more likely to reach their goals.
D. It is best to communicate openly so that issues can be resolved effectively.
Part Two
Which sentence from “Nail Soup” best supports the answer in Part One? Choose one
answer.
A. “But the man did not consider himself beaten at the first rebuff.”
B. “He did not need much pressing.”
C. “The woman stared with all her might.”
D. “She was quite awestruck at the man and his grand connections.”
The student is asked to determine a generalization that can best be made based on information in the
passage and then to select a sentence from the passage that best supports the generalization.
Part One: Option C is the correct answer since the man is able to obtain a place to sleep through persistence;
he repeatedly asks the woman for a place to sleep. In addition, he is able to make a satisfying soup by
suggesting additional ingredients. Option A is incorrect since the woman is not the man’s friend. Option B
may be a factual statement but is too specific to be a generalization. Option D is incorrect since the man is
able to resolve his issue through indirect communication.
Part Two: Option A is the correct answer since it supports the generalization that the man is persistent in
reaching his goal. Options B, C, and D do not relate to the correct generalization in Part One.
*
*
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 13
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Read the poem and answer questions 6–11.
The Poem of Stone Soup
by Ilya Ben Goldberg
They came into town battered and torn,
The soldiers hungry and worn,
Door to door looking for food,
All they got was firewood,
So a clever plan was born.
To the creek the men marched out,
“Soup from a stone” the town heard a shout,
Fire, water, and a polished stone,
It boiled, it crackled empty alone,
O’ then the stone was thrown,
Soup from a stone they said with doubt,
A fella said, “Would be better with herb,”
This little bit will make the soup superb!
A lady shouted what no meat?
Here have some that can’t be beat!
Carrots, onions would all repeat,
Soup roared in the square undisturbed.
The aroma of soup filled the town square,
As many held hands completely unaware,
Soldiers smiled in silence,
A battle won with kindness.
And greed a distant blindness,
The stone was removed without despair,
So a good bye, a gallop in a swoop
Practices taught in the most righteous scoop,
A virtue of caring,
The act of sharing,
The villagers glaring,
The lesson passed in a stone soup.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 14
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MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS
E06.A-C.2.1.2
6. Read the line from “The Poem of Stone Soup.”
“So a clever plan was born.”
How does the line contribute to the development of the poem?
A. It describes the setting for the events.
B. It reveals the theme of the poem.
C. It details the events that are part of the conflict.
D. It describes the characters’ response to a problem.
The student is asked to determine how the given line contributes to the development of the poem. OptionD
is the correct answer since it describes how the soldiers respond to their problem of being hungry. OptionA
is incorrect since the line does not relate to the setting. Option B is incorrect since the line does not relate
to the development of the poem but rather the theme. Option C is incorrect since the line does not specify
events related to the conflict.
E06.A-V.4.1.2
7. In “The Poem of Stone Soup,” which word is a synonym for superb?
A. original
B. excellent
C. preserved
D. inspiring
The student is asked to determine the synonym for the word “superb.” Option B is the correct answer since
“excellent” means the same as “superb.” Options A, C, and D are not synonyms for “superb.”
*
*
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 15
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.A-K.1.1.3
8. How do the soldiers in “The Poem of Stone Soup” respond to the way the villagers treat
them?
A. They make a soup without needing any help from the villagers.
B. They make a plea to the villagers for a place to sleep.
C. They come up with an idea that will trick the villagers.
D. They come up with an idea to take food from villagers in the next town.
The student is asked to determine how the soldiers in the poem respond to the way the villagers treat them.
Option C is the correct answer since the soldiers come up with a plan to make stone soup and trick the
villagers into giving them food to add to the soup. Options A, B, and D are not supported by information in
the poem.
*
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 16
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
EVIDENCE-BASED SELECTED-RESPONSE QUESTION
E06.A-K.1.1.2
9. This question has two parts. Answer Part One and then answer Part Two.
Part One
Which sentence best describes a central idea of “The Poem of Stone Soup”?
A. Things are not always as they seem.
B. People who trick others are usually punished.
C. Wisdom comes through great sacrifice.
D. People can be lonely even when with others.
Part Two
Which lines from the poem support the answer in Part One? Choose two answers.
A. “All they got was firewood,”
B. “As many held hands completely unaware,”
C. “Soldiers smiled in silence,”
D. “So a good bye, a gallop in a swoop”
The student is asked to identify the central idea of the poem and to select lines from the poem that support
the central idea.
Part One: Option A is the correct answer since the villagers are unaware that they are being manipulated into
helping the soldiers. Option B is incorrect since no one is punished in the poem. Option C is incorrect since
the villagers do not know they have sacrificed; therefore, they are not made wiser. Option D is incorrect since
neither the soldiers nor the villagers feel lonely.
Part Two: Options B and C are the correct answers since they support the central idea that “things are not
always as they seem.” The villagers being “completely unaware” and the soldiers smiling “in silence” both
suggest that the soldiers have achieved something without the villagers’ knowledge. Options A and D do not
support the correct central idea from Part One.
*
*
*
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 17
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTION
E06.A-C.3.1.1
10. How do both the author and the poet develop the plots using character actions?
A. The main characters find ways to buy the supplies they need.
B. The main characters make decisions that result in their own downfall.
C. The characters are unsure how they can help but find a way to work together.
D. The characters are willing to share something that they had not offered before.
The student is asked to determine how the author and the poet develop the plots using character actions.
Option D is the correct answer. In “Nail Soup,” the woman offers different items for the soup. Similarly, in “The
Poem of Stone Soup,” the villagers offer different items for the soup. Options A and B are not supported by
either the passage or by the poem. Option C is only supported by the poem.
*
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 18
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TEXT-DEPENDENT ANALYSIS QUESTION
E06.E.1.1
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
Writer’s Checklist for the
Text-Dependent Analysis Question
PLAN before you write
• Make sure you read the question carefully.
• Make sure you have read the entire passage carefully.
• Think about how the question relates to the passage.
• Organize your ideas on scratch paper. Use a thought map, outline, or other
graphic organizer to plan your essay.
FOCUS while you write
• Analyze the information from the passage as you write your essay.
• Make sure you use evidence from the passage to support your response.
• Use precise language, a variety of sentence types, and transitions in your essay.
• Organize your paper with an introduction, body, and conclusion.
PROOFREAD after you write
I wrote my final essay in the answer booklet.
I stayed focused on answering the question.
I used evidence from the passage to support my response.
I corrected errors in capitalization, spelling, sentence formation, punctuation,
and word choice.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 19
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 20
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 21
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 22
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TEXT-DEPENDENT ANALYSIS QUESTION SCORING GUIDELINE
Item #11
Assessment Anchor:
E06.E.1—Evidence-Based Analysis of Text
Specific Assessment Anchor Descriptor addressed by this item:
E06.E.1.1—Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reection, and research.
Score
Point
Description
4
• Effectively addresses all parts of the task demonstrating in-depth analytic understanding of
the text(s)
• Effective introduction, development, and conclusion identifying an opinion, topic, or
controlling idea related to the text(s)
• Strong organizational structure that effectively supports the focus and ideas
• Thorough analysis of explicit and implicit meanings from text(s) to effectively support
claims, opinions, ideas, and inferences
• Substantial, accurate, and direct reference to the text(s) using relevant key details, examples,
quotes, facts, and/or definitions
• Substantial reference to the main idea(s) and relevant key details of the text(s) to support the
writer’s purpose
• Skillful use of transitions to link ideas
• Effective use of precise language and domain-specific vocabulary drawn from the text(s) to
explain the topic and/or to convey experiences/events
• Few errors, if any, are present in sentence formation, grammar, usage, spelling, capitalization,
and punctuation; errors present do not interfere with meaning
3
• Adequately addresses all parts of the task demonstrating sufficient analytic understanding
of the text(s)
• Clear introduction, development, and conclusion identifying an opinion, topic, or controlling
idea related to the text(s)
• Appropriate organizational structure that adequately supports the focus and ideas
• Clear analysis of explicit and implicit meanings from text(s) to support claims, opinions,
ideas, and inferences
• Sufficient, accurate, and direct reference to the text(s) using relevant details, examples,
quotes, facts, and/or definitions
• Sufficient reference to the main idea(s) and relevant key details of the text(s) to support the
writer’s purpose
• Appropriate use of transitions to link ideas
• Appropriate use of precise language and domain-specific vocabulary drawn from the text(s)
to explain the topic and/or to convey experiences/events
• Some errors may be present in sentence formation, grammar, usage, spelling, capitalization,
and punctuation; errors present seldom interfere with meaning
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 23
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Score
Point
Description
2
• Inconsistently addresses some parts of the task demonstrating partial analytic
understanding of the text(s)
• Weak introduction, development, and/or conclusion identifying an opinion, topic, or
controlling idea somewhat related to the text(s)
• Weak organizational structure that inconsistently supports the focus and ideas
• Weak or inconsistent analysis of explicit and/or implicit meanings from text(s) that
somewhat supports claims, opinions, ideas, and inferences
• Vague reference to the text(s) using some details, examples, quotes, facts, and/or definitions
• Weak reference to the main idea(s) and relevant details of the text(s) to support the writer’s
purpose
• Inconsistent use of transitions to link ideas
• Inconsistent use of precise language and domain-specific vocabulary drawn from the text(s)
to explain the topic and/or to convey experiences/events
• Errors may be present in sentence formation, grammar, usage, spelling, capitalization, and
punctuation; errors present may interfere with meaning
1
• Minimally addresses part(s) of the task demonstrating inadequate analytic understanding of
the text(s)
• Minimal evidence of an introduction, development, and/or conclusion
• Minimal evidence of an organizational structure
• Insufficient or no analysis of the text(s); may or may not support claims, opinions, ideas, and
inferences
• Insufficient reference to the text(s) using few details, examples, quotes, facts, and/or
definitions
• Minimal reference to the main idea(s) and/or relevant details of the text(s)
• Few, if any, transitions to link ideas
• Little or no use of precise language or domain-specific vocabulary drawn from the text(s)
• Many errors may be present in sentence formation, grammar, usage, spelling, capitalization,
and punctuation; errors present often interfere with meaning
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 24
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
TEXT-DEPENDENT ANALYSIS QUESTION STUDENT RESPONSES
E06.E.1.1
Response Score: 4
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
“Kill ‘em with kindness” is a common phrase and a theme that is illustrated in both
the folktale “Nail Soup” and “The Poem of Stone Soup.” It is a phrase often used
when you want to get people to do things they don’t want to do, you don’t act like
them, you act the opposite.
In each passage, the hungry travelers do not want to come right out and beg for
food. In Nail Soup, the woman the man meets is very miserly and mean. She lies
and tries to hide from him that she has food. So, the man used reverse psychology
on her and got her to give him food by fooling her with his “nail broth”. By
suggesting things that would make it better and better and telling her how the king
likes his nail soup, the man is actually getting what he wanted without coming right
out and asking for it. In both passages the hungry ones act as if the meager soup
they are making will be enough for them, and using that they are able to play on the
egoes of the people by giving them a chance to make the meager soup even better.
In each passage, the traveler’s fascinate the people by proposing such a wild idea
as broth made from a nail or stone is delicious on it’s own but can be made even
better by adding things to it, when really all they are trying to do is get the meat and
potatoes in the first place so that they can eat.
In each passage, the people are fooled into thinking that it is the nail or the stone
that is giving the soup its wonderful flavor when in fact it is all of the meat and
vegetables that the hungry travelers are able to get the reluctant people to offer that
makes the soup better. I think it is also very clever to say that it is very good by itself
but the adding to it would make it even better.
The clever part of what the man and the soldiers do is they turn the tables on the
people and offer them part of their soup even though it is only made with a nail or a
stone. By making it appear that they are generous with what little they have the
people realize they are being selfish and they can have even better soup if they put
better things in it.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 25
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They are using a ruse, because even though they are hungry, they make it seem like
they are not or that their hunger can be satisfied by something as simple as a nail or
stone boiled in water. By making the other people want what they are having they
are easy to trick into believing that the soup would be fine on it’s own, but when
ways are suggested to make it even better, they finally begin to see they are being
greedy and admit things like, “I think I have a scrap of flour somewhere” (the old
woman) or “A lady shouted what no meat? Here have some that can’t be beat!” By
making it appear that the people are missing out on this great soup, they are able to
make them give them food to put in it, because the people are always thinking up
ways to make it even better.
In the end, because the man and the soldiers “killed them with kindness” they got
what they wanted: a nice hot meal. And the townspeople who at first were mean
ended up with a nice meal too.
Annotation: In this response, the student effectively addresses all parts of the task demonstrating
in-depth analytic understanding of the text. The organizational structure is strong and effectively
supports the focus and ideas. There is an effective introduction, development, and conclusion
that support the response’s controlling idea (the idea that the man and the soldiers used clever
psychological tricks to get free food from stingy people). There are numerous examples of thorough
analysis of explicit and implicit meanings from the texts (“the man used reverse psychology on her and
got her to give him food by fooling her with his ‘nail broth’, ” “ the man is actually getting what he wanted
without coming right out and asking for it,” “In both passages the hungry ones act as if the meager soup
they are making will be enough for them, and using that they are able to play on the egoes of the people
by giving them a chance to make the meager soup even better,” and “By making it appear that they are
generous with what little they have the people realize they are being selfish and they can have even better
soup if they put better things in it”). There is also substantial, accurate, and direct reference to the texts,
including main ideas and relevant key details (“She lies and tries to hide from him that she has food” and
“‘I think I have a scrap of flour somewhere’ (the old woman) or ‘A lady shouted what no meat? Here have
some that can’t be beat!’”). Transition use is sometimes skillful (“The clever part…” and “By making…”),
sometimes adequate (“In each passage,” and “In the end”). Precise and domain-specific language from
the text is used (“telling her how the king likes his nail soup,” “ hungry travelers,” and “something as simple
as a nail or stone boiled in water”). There are a few grammatical errors and an occasional spelling error;
however, these do not interfere with meaning.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 26
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 4
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 27
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 28
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Annotation: In this response, the student demonstrates in-depth analytic understanding of the text
by effectively addressing all parts of the task. The organizational structure is strong and effectively
supports the focus and ideas. There is an effective introduction and the content and ideas are
developed toward an effective conclusion which supports the response’s controlling idea (“Be
thoughtful in how you approach all situations. It’s important to understand the mood of the people
around you and then make up a plan to get what you want”). There is thorough analysis of explicit and
implicit meanings from the text (“the travelers were able to build it up as an amazing opportunity for
everyone,” “ the soldiers understood that the people of the town might be more helpful if they thought they
were gaining something,” “ They each created a smart plan to get their way,” and “the soldiers also realized
that the townspeople would not want to share unless they felt they were part of something unique such as
sharing in a warm bowl of stone soup in a festive atmosphere with their neighbors”), as well as substantial,
accurate, and direct reference to the main ideas and relevant key details of the text (“The woman was
in such a good and merry humor after she learned what seemed to be a cheap way of making broth,” “the
man…understood that the stingy and greedy woman would not want to share,” and “…contributing
things, such as meat or carrots and onions to the soup”). Transitions employed effectively link ideas.
Precise, domain-specific language from the text is used throughout the response. There are few, if any,
convention errors.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 29
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THIS PAGE IS
INTENTIONALLY BLANK.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 30
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E06.E.1.1
Response Score: 4
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
Clever deception is not always a bad thing, especially when it benefits everyone.
The passage and poem develop a theme of “trickery to get what you want isn’t bad
if it helps others.” In a way, those who tricked the villagers into adding to the nail
soup, tricked them into not being selfish and helping others who may be in need or
hungry.
In Nail Soup, the man countered the woman’s greediness by appealing to her vanity
when he told her that the result would be fit for a king or queen. The man knew that
she would not be able to resist when he kept name dropping the king to get more
ingredients added to the soup. For example, “If one had only a little barley and a
drop of milk, we could ask the king himself to have some.” This worked, because
the woman “went to fetch both the one and the other.” In fact, the man even got the
woman to add a sandwich to his meal. The woman remained convinced it all came
from one nail, but by the time he had fooled her into adding many more things to the
broth, both of them were able to enjoy a feast.
The soldiers in The Poem of Stone Soup also demonstrate this lesson. When they
were not able to get the villagers to give them food, they began to appeal to the
townspeople by creating a mystique around this “Soup from a stone.” The villagers
were incredulous that soup could be good to eat if only made from a stone; they
began to add their own ideas to improve it. One “fella” said it, “would be better with
herb” and a lady offered up some meat. Soon carrots and onions were also being
added and the soup was taking shape. By the time it was done, everyone was able
to enjoy the soup together.
Both the passage and the poem use deception as a way to feed not only
themselves, but also the villagers who help them out. The villagers ended up helping
themselves and others without even knowing that they were being unnselfish and
helping those who were hungry, as well.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 31
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Annotation: In this response, the student effectively addresses all parts of the task demonstrating
in-depth analytic understanding of the text. The organizational structure is strong and effectively
supports the focus and ideas. There is an effective introduction, development, and conclusion, all of
which support the response’s controlling idea (“clever deception isn’t always a bad thing”). There are
numerous examples of thorough analysis of explicit and implicit meanings from the texts (“the man
countered the woman’s greediness by appealing to her vanity,” “he kept name dropping the king to get
more ingredients added,” “they began to appeal to the townspeople by creating a mystique around this
‘Soup from a stone,’ ” and “The villagers ended up helping themselves and others without even knowing
that they were being unselfish and helping those who were hungry, as well”). There is also substantial,
accurate, and direct reference to the texts, including main ideas and relevant key details (“If one had
only a little barley and a drop of milk, we could ask the king himself to have some” and “Soon carrots
and onions were also being added”). Transition use is sometimes skillful (“by the time” and “not only
themselves, but also”), sometimes adequate (“In a way” and “In fact,”). Precise and domain-specific
language from the text is used throughout (“One ‘fella’ said it ‘would be better with herb’ ” and “the
villagers were incredulous”). There are occasional, minor grammatical and spelling errors; however,
these do not interfere with meaning.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 32
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E06.E.1.1
Response Score: 3
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
In both the passage and the poem the theme is “be enthusiastic” to get others to
help you out.
The man in the passage is enthusiastic about the soup, telling the woman that the
king would love it. The woman started out lying saying, “I haven’t tasted a morsel
myself.” The man says that she must be starving too and should also get some
soup. By being enthusiastic, even though he didn’t believe her, the man gets her to
put potatoes, barley and milk in the soup. By the end of the story, The man’s
enthusiasm has totally won her over and they both “drank and ate”.
In the poem, some soldiers use enthusiasm to convince townspeople to add to their
soup. They begin by shouting loudly about how good the soup is going to be
(enthusiasm). this gets the town interested, but really they are fooling the people into
giving them food: meat “that can’t be beat” and “Carrots and Onions all would
repeat.”
The people in the passage and the poem use enthusiasm to get people to help
them with their hunger. In the end, they get what they were after all along: food.
Their enthusiasm got the people to not be so mean and to help out with the soup.
Annotation: In this response, the student adequately addresses all parts of the task demonstrating
sufficient analytic understanding of the text. Though succinct, there is a clear introduction,
development, and conclusion identifying a controlling idea (being enthusiastic can gain others’
help). The organizational structure adequately supports the response’s focus and ideas. There is
clear analysis of explicit and implicit meanings from the text (“By being enthusiastic, even though he
didn’t believe her, the man gets her to put potatoes, barley and milk in the soup,” “The man’s enthusiasm
has totally won her over…,” and “really they are fooling the people into giving them food”). There are
sufficient, direct references to the text (“ ‘I haven’t tasted a morsel myself,’ ” “meat ‘that can’t be beat’, ”
and “ ‘Carrots and Onions all would repeat’ ”) that support the writer’s purpose. Few errors are present in
conventions (e.g., capitalization issues), and those present do not interfere with meaning.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 33
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 3
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 34
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 35
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Annotation: In this response, the student adequately addresses all parts of the task demonstrating
sufficient analytic understanding of the text. There is a clear introduction, development, and
conclusion identifying a controlling idea (“if you don’t get something by…asking for it, you can get it
by making it seem that what you have is so awesome that other people will want it too and then give you
what they have”). The organizational structure adequately supports the focus, addressing both the
passage and the poem and tying them together in the conclusion. There is clear analysis of explicit
and implicit meanings from the text (“the man keeps getting the woman to add more real food to the
nail soup because he appeels to her ego and her curiosity,” “By saying these things, he tricks her into slowly
giving him things for the soup even though she denied having anything from the start,”“ By doing this, the
people are actually doing what the soldiers want,” and “It’s kinda like you can get what you want without
really asking for it and the people will do what you want on their own if you know how to make them do
it”). There are sufficient, direct references to the text (“eventually she does admit that she has ‘perhaps a
spare bit of flour’” and “One person offers to give herbs for the soup and another person gives meat to put
in it”) that support the writer’s purpose. Transitions appropriately link ideas (“In the story from Sweden,”
“For example,” and “But eventually”) and there is appropriate use of precise language from the text
(“greedy and stingy woman”). There are a few grammatical errors present as well as some awkward
sentence formation; however, these do not interfere with meaning.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 36
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.E.1.1
Response Score: 3
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
Both passages deal with the main characters being hungry. They are afraid that if
they admit their hunger there is a chance that they might lose the chance to be fed
so they trick the people into giving them food. So the theme might be that if you
want something that someone doesn’t want to give you that you may have to fool
them into helping you.
In the story Nail Soup when the man realizes that the woman is greedy and stingy
he quickly decides to make it seem like he is helping her when really she is helping
him. He makes her this strange nail soup which she is very intrigued by and
because he makes it seem very good she believes him. “This will be grand enough
for the best in the land,” he said. By the time the soup is done, including the
vegetables, meat, and potatoes she has added, she thinks that the man was
wonderful to have taught her to make such a special soup with only a nail.
The same thing happens in The Poem of Stone Soup. The soldiers realize that the
villagers aren’t going to feed them unless they fool them into wanting to help. So
they do. Just like in Nail Soup, they make stone soup sound really good and the
people want to share in its goodness. “Soup from a stone” they shout, which
makes everyone curious about how you could make soup from a stone. And the
more curious they are the more they want to help. They were fooled into helping,
just like the woman was fooled into helping the man in Nail Soup.
Now you know how the passage and the poem address a similar theme.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 37
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Annotation: In this response, the student adequately addresses all parts of the task demonstrating
sufficient analytic understanding of the text. There is a clear introduction, development, and
conclusion identifying a controlling idea (“They are afraid that if they admit their hunger there is a
chance that they might lose the chance to be fed so they trick the people into giving them food.”). The
organizational structure adequately supports the response’s focus and ideas. There is clear analysis
of explicit and implicit meanings from the text (“he quickly decides to make it seem like he is helping
her when really she is helping him,”“ she thinks that the man was wonderful to have taught her to make
such a special soup with only a nail,” and “The soldiers realize that the villagers aren’t going to feed them
unless they fool them into wanting to help”). There are sufficient, direct references to the text (“This will
be grand enough for the best in the land” and “‘Soup from a stone’ they shout”) that support the writer’s
purpose. Few errors are present in conventions (there are some missing commas), and those present
do not interfere with meaning.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 38
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E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 2
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 39
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Annotation: In this response, the student inconsistently addresses the task demonstrating partial
analytic understanding of the text (“The theme in both passages is Never Give Up”). There is evidence
of a weak organizational structure that only inconsistently supports the focus and ideas. There is
some inconsistent analysis of explicit and implicit meanings from the text (“The man with the nail
keeps rhyming things to get the woman to give him more food” and “I think the soup is better without the
people realising they were doing it and because they never gave up offering more things they got what
they wanted”) in the form of weak inferences. These inferences go beyond a strictly literal reading of
the text. References to the text are generally vague/awkward (“… the guy said it would be better with
an herb in it and then a lady said she had good meet for it”). Transition use is inconsistent (“even though”)
and development is weak. Errors are present in punctuation (“dont” for don’t), usage (“meet” for meat),
spelling (“realising” for realizing), and sentence structure; errors sometimes interfere with meaning.
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E06.E.1.1
Response Score: 2
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
The theme is man verse man because the hungry man and the hungry soldiers have
to trick the hungry town people for food. Both stories are about people making
other people do something they don’t want to do. In nail soup the woman gives the
man food and lets him sleep in a bed. “Such a grand person must have a bed to lie
in.” In the poem of Stone Soup the people who live in the town end up giving the
hungry soldiers food. They add to the soup. A lady shouted no meat? There is a
happy ending to both stories. The soldiers smiled in silence. The woman said. “Such
people don’t grow on every bush.” They all get food in the end.
Annotation: In this response, the student inconsistently addresses the task demonstrating partial
analytic understanding of the text (“Both stories are about people making other people do something
they don’t want to do.”). There is some evidence of an organizational structure, featuring weak
transitions and development related to the text, all of which only inconsistently supports the focus
and ideas. There is some inconsistent analysis of explicit and implicit meanings from the text (“The
theme is man verse man because the hungry man and the hungry soldiers have trick the hungry town
people for food” and “There is a happy ending to both stories”) that goes beyond a literal reading of
the text. References to the text are general (“the people who live in the town end up giving the hungry
soldiers food” and “In nail soup the woman gives the man food and lets him sleep in a bed”). Errors are
present in punctuation, capitalization, and usage (“verse” for versus); however, these generally do not
interfere with meaning.
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E06.E.1.1
Response Score: 1
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
The theme they share is both are in little villages in the olden days. In the poem the
soldiers are hungry but no one wood give them food so they desided to make stone
soup to eat. The people thot it sounded so good that they offerred to add more
things to it, and the soldiers got to eat. And the man in the story making nail soup
get more things for his soup from the mean old woman.
Annotation: In this response, the student minimally addresses part of the task demonstrating an
inadequate analytic understanding of the text. The student’s attempt at analyzing how the passage
and the poem develop a similar theme (“The theme they share is both are in little villages in the olden
days”) is both erroneous and simplistic. There is minimal evidence of an organizational structure and
minimal reference to main ideas or relevant details of the text. There is no analysis of, and insufficient
reference to, the text (“The people thot it sounded so good” and “the soldiers got to eat”). There is little
use of precise language drawn from the text. The response includes usage errors (“wood” for would
and “get” for got) and misspellings (“desided” for decided, “offerred” for offered, and “thot” for thought).
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E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 1
11. The passage and the poem address a similar theme. Write an essay analyzing how the
passage and the poem develop this theme. Use evidence from both the passage and the
poem to support your response.
Annotation: In this response, the student minimally addresses part of the task demonstrating
inadequate analytic understanding of the texts. There is minimal evidence of an organizational
structure and minimal reference to main ideas or relevant details of the text (“The man is hungry and
wants the woman to feed him” and “The soldiers are also very hungry and want the village people to feed
them”). There is no analysis of, and only insufficient reference to, the texts (“But she does have food in
the house because in the story she has oatmeal and flower and potatoes and beef and barley and milk
and cheese and butter and tea and veel”). The response includes usage errors (“cause” for because and
“flower” for flour), a misspelling (“veel” for veal), and the use of the word “and” versus using commas in
a series.
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THIS PAGE IS
INTENTIONALLY BLANK.
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PASSAGE 2
Read the following editorial and letter to the editor about skateboarding. Then answer
questions 12–20.
Children Under 12 Banned from Skateboarding
Editorial
The Government Editorial Board of Tullyville, North Dakota, voted last night to not allow
children under 12 years old to skateboard. This ruling came after Josie Bellview, age 10, fell on a
cement sidewalk in Rutherford Park, breaking her arm. Miss Bellview was not wearing a helmet at
the time of the accident. Thankfully, we finally have a government that is eager to address an issue
that has been ignored for too long.
Mayor Thomas Q. Smith said that this is not the first time this type of accident happened in
Rutherford Park. “For the last 3 years, Tullyville has been seeing an increase in these types of
accidents involving young children. If parents will not take the responsibility for making sure that
their children are safe from these sorts of mishaps, our government will.” When asked if it was
best to pass a helmet-wearing law, Mayor Smith said, “Tullyville tried that a number of years ago
and parents and children ignored the ordinance. We are being forced to do more in this area
since the problem does not seem to be going away and instead seems to be worsening.” This
newspaper stands firmly behind Mayor Smith’s stance. The parents were given the opportunity
a while ago to address this issue. They caught the ball, but ultimately fumbled it. It is now our
government’s turn to try and fix this serious situation.
Mayor Smith was referring to the serious accident that occurred on July 4th of this year. Two
children, ages 9 and 10, collided on skateboards and were injured. Tullyville will no longer tolerate
these occurrences. This newspaper is eager to see something done immediately. We will no longer
tolerate these recurring accidents that can be prevented. We demand that something be done
immediately and Mayor Smith seems to be doing it.
Our popular mayor believes that the government should step in when it appears that parents
have failed in their duties to protect their children. This newspaper firmly supports the mayor’s
right to ensure the safety of all of Tullyville’s citizens. Governments have traditionally acted in
place of parents when they have failed to act. It is totally correct of Mayor Smith to do something
to stop the high rate of accidents in the park. It must not be forgotten that it will ultimately be the
responsibility of the town of Tullyville for paying money for these frequent accidents. Mayor Smith
is not only protecting the children of Tullyville, but also the money of its citizens.
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Letter to the Editor
Dear Editor,
I read your editorial published on October 13th. As an eleven-year-old skateboarder, I want
to say I think the mayor is wrong. Kids should be allowed to skateboard in Rutherford Park. Just
because one girl did not follow the rules, why should the rest of us be punished?
I have been a skateboarder since I was eight years old. I do most of my skateboarding at the
park or at the Southerland Middle School. I skateboard with my friends and we all wear helmets.
Our parents do not have to remind us to put our helmets on. We have been skateboarding for
three years and have not had an accident. If we did collide, we are not only wearing helmets, but
also knee and elbow pads. We do everything right to make sure that we and others are safe.
Just because some kids did not follow the rules, does not mean that all of us should not be
allowed to skateboard. There is not a lot to do in Tullyville. Skateboarding keeps us busy and
healthy. We are not sitting around watching television and eating junk food. The U.S. Government
said that overweight children are a big health problem for this country. We eleven-year-olds in
Tullyville are doing something to solve this problem. We are exercising in a safe way.
We should be allowed to keep skateboarding. If the mayor is really concerned, he should raise
the fine for not wearing a helmet. Then maybe the parents will pay attention.
Sincerely,
Sara Jones,
6th grader at Southerland Middle School
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MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS
E06.B-C.3.1.1
12. Read the sentences from the Editorial.
“This ruling came after Josie Bellview, age 10, fell on a cement sidewalk in Rutherford Park,
breaking her arm. Miss Bellview was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.”
Which statement is the best evaluation of the author’s argument?
A. The author is making a strong argument by using relevant statistics such as the age of
the person that was injured.
B. The author is making a weak argument by implying that wearing a helmet could have
prevented the injury.
C. The author is making a strong argument by providing specific details about the location
of the accident.
D. The author is making a weak argument by suggesting that the sidewalk was the cause of
the accident.
The student is asked to determine the best evaluation of the author’s argument in the editorial. Option B is
the correct answer since the given sentences provide a weak argument; wearing a helmet would not have
necessarily prevented the child from breaking her arm. Option A is incorrect since there are no statistics
included. Option C is incorrect since the argument is not strong. Option D is incorrect since the sentences are
not implying that the sidewalk is the cause for the accident.
*
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E06.B-V.4.1.1
13. Read the sentence from the Editorial.
“When asked if it was best to pass a helmet-wearing law, Mayor Smith said, ‘Tullyville tried
that a number of years ago and parents and children ignored the ordinance.’ ”
What does the word ordinance mean as it is used in the passage?
A. regulation
B. program
C. registration
D. bargain
The student is asked to determine the meaning of the word “ordinance.” Option A is the correct answer
since the word “law” provides the context for the meaning of “ordinance.” Options B, C, and D are incorrect
meanings of the word “ordinance” and do not make sense in the context of the sentence.
E06.B-V.4.1.2
14. Read the sentences from the Editorial.
“The parents were given the opportunity a while ago to address this issue. They caught the
ball, but ultimately fumbled it.”
What does the metaphor in the second sentence suggest?
A. The parents refused to discuss ways to solve the problem.
B. The parents misunderstood the purpose of the helmet laws.
C. The parents failed to do their part to solve the problem.
D. The parents disagreed with the requirements of the helmet laws.
The student is asked to infer the meaning of a given metaphor. Option C is the correct answer since the
metaphor of fumbling a ball implies that the parents failed in their responsibility. Options A, B, and D are not
supported by information in the editorial.
*
*
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E06.B-K.1.1.3
15. Read the sentence from the Editorial.
“Our popular mayor believes that the government should step in when it appears that parents
have failed in their duties to protect their children.”
How does this sentence elaborate on how the mayor is presented in the letter?
A. It reminds citizens that they often agree with the mayor.
B. It shows citizens the need for more money for the mayor to fix the problem.
C. It emphasizes that citizens should obey laws made by the mayor.
D. It suggests to citizens that the mayor will discuss the issue with others.
The student is asked to determine how a given sentence from the editorial elaborates on how the mayor is
presented in the letter. Option A is the correct answer since the word “popular” implies that citizens often
agree with the mayor. Options B, C, and D are not supported by information in the editorial.
E06.B-C.2.1.3
16. Read the sentence from the Letter to the Editor.
“We are not sitting around watching television and eating junk food.”
Why does the author use the phrase “junk food” in the letter?
A. to illustrate what can happen with too little free time
B. to suggest hobbies that go along with skateboarding
C. to highlight typical activities that kids engage in
D. to contrast skateboarding with unhealthy habits
The student is asked to determine why the author uses the phrase “junk food” in the letter. Option D is the
correct answer since the author wishes to contrast the healthy activity of skateboarding with unhealthy
activities that other kids engage in. The purpose is to make skateboarding seem like a more commendable
activity. Since the sentence prior to the given sentence is “Skateboarding keeps us busy and healthy,” OptionA
is incorrect. Option B reflects a misinterpretation of details in the text. Option C is incorrect since the purpose
of the sentence is to imply that skateboarding is a favorable way for kids to spend their time.
*
*
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E06.B-C.2.1.2
17. Read the sentences from the Letter to the Editor.
“If the mayor is really concerned, he should raise the fine for not wearing a helmet. Then
maybe the parents will pay attention.”
What is the main way that the sentences contribute to the development of ideas in the letter?
A. by questioning the purpose of an existing law
B. by repeating a point that has already been made
C. by presenting an alternate solution to the problem
D. by criticizing another group of people for the situation
The student is asked to determine the main way that the given sentences contribute to the development
of ideas in the letter. Option C is the correct answer since it presents an alternative solution to the problem
of children becoming injured while skateboarding. Options A, B, and D are not supported by information in
the letter.
E06.B-C.3.1.1
18. Which sentence from the Editorial best supports the author’s claim that the mayor has the
right to protect the citizens of Tullyville?
A. “Miss Bellview was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.”
B. “This newspaper is eager to see something done immediately.”
C. “We will no longer tolerate these recurring accidents that can be prevented.”
D. “Governments have traditionally acted in place of parents when they have failed to act.”
The student is asked to identify the sentence from the editorial that supports the given claim that the
mayor has the right to protect the citizens of Tullyville. Option D is the correct answer since it provides an
established truth that governments have historically acted as parents to protect citizens. Options A, B, and C
do not support the given claim.
*
*
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E06.B-C.2.1.1
19. Which statement states the point of view of the Letter to the Editor?
A. It is told by a middle school student who is a skateboarder.
B. It is told by the mayor of the town where the skateboard accident occurred.
C. It is told by a parent of children who skateboard at the local park.
D. It is told by one citizen who lives near the park where the skateboarding accident
occurred.
The student is asked to determine the point of view of the letter. Option A is the correct answer since it is
written by a sixth grade student who is a skateboarder. Options B, C, and D are not supported by information
in the letter.
*
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EVIDENCE-BASED SELECTED-RESPONSE QUESTION
E06.B-K.1.1.1
20. This question has two parts. Answer Part One and then answer Part Two.
Part One
Based on the Editorial, which generalization can best be made about the actions of others?
A. Government actions must be approved by all.
B. Individual actions have far-reaching consequences.
C. Dangerous actions will often be tolerated.
D. Unfair actions result from citizen involvement.
Part Two
Which sentence from the passage supports the answer in Part One? Choose one answer.
A. “This newspaper stands firmly behind Mayor Smith’s stance.”
B. “ ‘We are being forced to do more in this area since the problem does not seem to be
going away and instead seems to be worsening.’ ”
C. “We demand that something be done immediately and Mayor Smith seems to be doing
it.”
D. “It must not be forgotten that it will ultimately be the responsibility of the Town of Tullyville
for paying money for these frequent accidents.”
The student is asked to determine a generalization based on information from the editorial and then to select
a sentence from the editorial that best supports the generalization.
Part One: Option B is the correct answer since the actions of individual children and parents have resulted in
such consequences as the town having to pay money for the accidents. Option A is incorrect since the mayor
is not making this decision on his own. Option C is not supported by information in the editorial. Option D is
incorrect since it is the fact that citizens have not gotten involved that has resulted in the proposed law.
Part Two: Option D is the correct answer since it shows how individual actions have far-reaching
consequences. Options A, B, and C do not relate to the correct generalization in Part One.
*
*
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PASSAGE 3
Read the following passage about the brain and sleep. Then answer questions 21–29.
The Body’s Clock
by Trudee Romanek
Ever wondered what makes you sleepy at bedtime? Is it just that you’re tired out from a long
day? That may be part of it, but you also get tired because your brain tells you to. A tiny part of
each person’s brain controls at what time of the day you’ll feel wide awake and what time you’ll
feel sleepy.
People call this part of the brain the biological clock or the body clock. Of course, it’s
not really a clock. It’s actually two tiny clumps of nerve cells—about the size of two pinheads—
inside your brain. The real name of these clumps of cells is the suprachiasmatic nuclei
(SOO-pra-ki-az-MAT-ik NOO-klee-i), or the SCN for short. They help your brain produce the
right chemicals, called neurotransmitters and hormones, to make you feel sleepy as bedtime
gets nearer and ready to rise as morning approaches.
Putting the Brain to Sleep
During the day, your biological clock triggers your body to produce chemicals that stimulate
your brain and keep it alert. While it’s alert, a part of your brain stem—the lower part of your brain
that looks after breathing and other basic life functions—is hard at work. It passes information
nonstop from your senses to your cerebral cortex—the upper part of your brain that sorts out
information from your senses and controls speech and all your other muscle movements.
Later, your biological clock signals your body that bedtime is approaching. When the daylight
begins to fade, your pineal gland churns out more melatonin, a hormone that lets your organs
know it’s time for sleep. Your brain starts producing less of the stimulating, wake-up chemicals.
Eventually, another part of the brain stem (the pontine nuclei) takes over, allowing you to sleep.
Once this part is in charge, very little sensory information is passed to your cerebral cortex and
you are no longer as aware of things around you.
The brain stem itself doesn’t seem to need sleep. It may be the part of your brain that stays
alert during sleep, waiting for important signals.
Right On Time
People are creatures of habit, thanks in part to their biological clocks. Scientists have
discovered that over the course of each day, human beings (and other animals, too) have a distinct
pattern of times when they are sleepy and times when they are alert. Most people feel energetic in
the morning, then start to feel sleepy after lunch. They perk up in late afternoon, feel wide awake
right after supper and then get tired at bedtime. This sleep/wake cycle is part of a larger, 24-hour
pattern called the circadian rhythm.
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Some other events in your day are part of your circadian rhythm as well. For example, your
body temperature rises just before you wake up and falls during the night. And your stomach
produces digestive juices according to a schedule, so that at meal times it’s ready to break down
the food you eat.
Gathering Evidence
Your biological clock uses a number of different clues to make sure it’s keeping your circadian
rhythm on schedule. Eating and exercising at regular times, even brushing your teeth and putting
on your pajamas before bed can signal your brain that everything is happening when it’s supposed
to. But the most important time clue for your biological clock is daylight.
When your eyes sense light, optical fibers carry the message to your brain and your SCN. As
long as your eyes are sensing bright light during the day and no light at night, your biological clock
knows that it’s waking you up, making you sleepy, and triggering all those other events at the
correct times.
Turning Day into Night
Many animals, including humans, are diurnal—awake and active during the day. These days,
though, many businesses are open 24 hours. Employees on the night shift have to sleep during
the day instead. This can cause big problems.
If you switched night for day and day for night long enough, your body might get used to the
change. The problem is that most shift workers don’t stick to the new schedule for long, so their
bodies don’t have time to adjust. As a result shift workers often feel sleepy at work, but lie awake
in bed when they’re supposed to be sleeping.
Getting Off Schedule
Flying from one time zone to another can throw your body into a tailspin. Suddenly the hours
between sunrise and sunset don’t add up to a complete day. The more time zones you cross, the
more out of whack your biological clock gets. Your brain may produce chemicals that keep you
wide awake when everyone else is asleep. It can take a week before daylight resets your clock
and gets all the systems of your circadian rhythm back to normal.
In space, astronauts sometimes face their most difficult tasks when they would normally be
sleeping back on Earth. So, before a mission, NASA shines bright lights on the astronauts in the
middle of the night to reset their biological clocks.
Many teenagers have a problem called teenage phase shift. Even though their bodies are
growing a lot, they don’t produce more melatonin—the chemical that signals it’s time for bed. So
the melatonin signal is weaker, and they don’t feel sleepy until well after midnight. Getting up is a
nightmare, and they drag themselves around exhausted for the rest of the day. By evening, they’re
wide awake again and can’t get to sleep. To deal with the problem of sleepy teens, some U.S. high
schools are starting classes later in the morning so that students can get the sleep they need.
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Stages of Sleep
In 1952, American researcher Nathaniel Kleitman began studying the eyes of sleepers. He
knew that our eyes roll around slowly just as we’re falling asleep. But he didn’t know if this
happened at other times during the night as well.
Kleitman asked a research student, Eugene Aserinsky, to stay awake all night and watch a
sleeping person’s eyes. Aserinsky was astonished by what he saw. Although the sleeper’s eyeballs
didn’t roll, from time to time they darted very quickly back and forth under closed eyelids. What
Kleitman and Aserinsky had discovered was a special stage of sleep. They named it Rapid Eye
Movement (REM) sleep and soon found that it’s during REM sleep that sleepers have their most
elaborate dreams.
Sleep researchers everywhere began to monitor brainwaves throughout the whole night. What
they found was that the brainwaves changed during the night, not just once, but many times. They
divided the different types of brainwaves into five stages of sleep that people go through each
night—REM sleep and stages 1, 2, 3, and 4 of non-REM sleep.
Non-REM Sleep
Stage 1 sleep is so close to being awake that if you were woken from it you’d probably say you
weren’t even asleep. After several minutes in Stage 1, you sink into Stage 2 sleep. The brainwaves
during this stage are a little larger and slower than at Stage 1. From there you sink into the deeper
sleep of Stages 3 and 4. Your body is very relaxed and it is difficult to wake you. During Stage 4,
your body produces the largest amount of some of the chemicals that help you grow.
Stages 1 and 2 are often called light sleep. Stages 3 and 4 are called deep sleep, or Slow-
Wave Sleep (SWS), because your brainwaves are larger and slower in those stages.
The Sleep Cycle
Throughout the night you make your way through the five stages of sleep on a very regular
schedule. After falling asleep, you drift down through light sleep (Stages 1 and 2) and then into
deep SWS sleep (Stages 3 and 4). You stay in Stage 4 sleep for about 20 minutes, your longest
chunk of it for the night. Then, you begin to drift back up through Stage 3 and into the lighter sleep
of Stage 2. But instead of passing into Stage 1 and then waking up, you enter your first period of
REM (rapid eye movement) sleep.
For the rest of the night you pass up and down through the stages of sleep in cycles that last
a little more than an hour. You spend less time in deep SWS and more time in REM sleep as the
night passes. In fact, most people have no deep sleep at all after about 2
a.m.
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A Good Night’s Sleep
When is the last time you complained about your bedtime? Last night? It just never seems fair
that kids have to go to sleep while adults stay up later. Unfortunately for kids, the grown-ups have
scientific research backing them up. Generally, the younger you are the more sleep you need to
keep your growing body and your developing brain working well. If you don’t get enough sleep,
you’ll feel cranky and unhappy, be more likely to get sick, and have a much harder time learning
new things.
As people get older, their need for sleep drops. But there’s one big exception. For reasons
doctors and scientists don’t completely understand yet, many teenagers seem to need more
sleep than they did at age 11—perhaps because of the major changes their bodies go through at
puberty.
How much sleep is enough?
Age
Hours of sleep
needed a day
1 week
1 year
5 years
7 years
11 years
Teenager
Adult
16 to 18 hours
12 to 13 hours
10 to 12 hours
9 to 11 hours
8 to 10 hours
9 to 10 hours
7 to 9 hours
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MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS
E06.B-C.2.1.3
21. Read the sentence from the passage.
“When the daylight begins to fade, your pineal gland churns out more melatonin, a hormone
that lets your organs know it’s time for sleep.”
How does the author use technical language in the sentence?
A. to define what the pineal gland is
B. to reveal how the pineal gland affects sleep
C. to describe the appearance of the pineal gland
D. to show where the pineal gland is located
The student is asked to determine how the author uses technical language in a given sentence. Option B
is the correct answer since the sentence explains how the pineal gland produces more melatonin, which
causes sleep. Option A is incorrect since the given sentence does not provide a definition for the pineal
gland. Option C is incorrect since the given sentence does not describe the appearance of the pineal gland.
OptionD is incorrect since the given sentence does not show where the pineal gland is located.
E06.B-C.2.1.2
22. How does the section “Gathering Evidence” mainly function in the passage?
A. It discusses how a teenager can maintain the body’s biological clock.
B. It describes how chemicals work in the body to maintain the circadian rhythm.
C. It gives tips related to maintaining the consistency in the body’s biological clock.
D. It provides support for the idea that the body regulates its circadian rhythm.
The student is asked to determine the function of the given section in the passage. Option D is the correct
answer since the section provides details of how the body’s biological clock ensures it is keeping the circadian
rhythm on schedule. Option A is incorrect since the section does not discuss the biological clock as it relates
to teens. Option B is incorrect since the section does not discuss how chemicals maintain the circadian
rhythm. Option C is incorrect since the section’s function is not designed to give tips for how people can
maintain the body’s biological clock.
*
*
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E06.B-V.4.1.2
23. Read the sentence from the passage.
“The more time zones you cross, the more out of whack your biological clock gets.”
What does the phrase “out of whack” mean?
A. lacking energy
B. lacking awareness
C. not working correctly
D. not moving quickly
The student is asked to determine the meaning of a phrase from the passage that is figurative language.
Option C is the correct answer since “out of whack” means “not working correctly.” Options A and B are not
supported by information in the passage. Option D refers to speed and not to function.
E06.B-V.4.1.2
24. Which word is a synonym for monitor?
A. check
B. pass
C. change
D. stop
The student is asked to identify a synonym for the word “monitor.” Option A is the correct answer. Researchers
began to “monitor” people’s brainwaves during the night. Therefore, researchers were checking the
brainwaves. Options B, C, and D are not synonyms for the given word.
*
*
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E06.B-K.1.1.3
25. How does the section “The Sleep Cycle” illustrate the stages of sleep?
A. It presents the different stages of sleep in the order of importance that they occur.
B. It discusses each stage of sleep in the order in which it occurs during the night.
C. It answers questions that are posed about the stages of sleep.
D. It suggests ways that people can improve sleep within each stage.
The student is asked to determine how the section “The Sleep Cycle” illustrates the stages of sleep. OptionB
is the correct answer since the section outlines each stage of sleep from 1 to 4. Options A, C, and D are not
supported by how the information in the section is structured.
*
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 59
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.B-C.2.1.2
26. How does the information in the chart “How much sleep is enough?” contribute to the
development of ideas in the passage?
A. It supports the idea that changing time zones affects when people sleep.
B. It suggests that schools are starting classes later in the morning so teens can get more
sleep.
C. It supports the idea that younger people generally need more sleep than older people.
D. It suggests that people who do not get enough sleep are more likely to get sick.
The student is asked to determine how the information in the chart contributes to the development of ideas
in the passage. Option C is the correct answer since the chart shows that, overall, younger people need more
sleep than older people. Options A, B, and D are not supported by information in the chart.
*
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 60
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.B-C.2.1.1
27. How is the author’s purpose to inform conveyed throughout the passage?
A. Research interviews are used to communicate tips for sleeping better.
B. Personal opinions are given to persuade people to get more sleep each night.
C. Historical accounts are included to describe sleep problems that people have had in the
past and how they have changed in the present.
D. Scientific facts are used to explain how the human biology of sleeping and waking works
and what can disrupt it.
The student is asked to determine how the author’s purpose to inform is conveyed throughout the passage.
OptionD is the correct answer since scientific facts are used to illustrate how the body regulates sleeping and
waking. Options A, B, and C are incorrect since they are not supported by information in the passage.
*
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 61
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
EVIDENCE-BASED SELECTED-RESPONSE QUESTION
E06.B-K.1.1.2
28. This question has two parts. Answer Part One and then answer Part Two.
Part One
What is a central idea of the passage?
A. The body clock is made up of 24 hours.
B. People who work at night are often sleepy and do not sleep during the day.
C. The body clock is a complex system that is affected by many factors.
D. People in Stage 3 sleep can wake up easily.
Part Two
Which details from the passage support the answer in Part One? Choose two answers.
A. Daily habits as well as age influence how we sleep and how much sleep we need.
B. Body chemicals and light can regulate when we are awake and when we sleep.
C. A sleeper’s brainwaves differ as a person moves from one stage to another.
D. A sleeper’s eyeballs dart very quickly back and forth under their eyelids.
The student is asked to determine the central idea of the passage and then to select two details from the
passage that support the central idea.
Part One: Option C is the correct answer since it states two key facts about the body clock: it is complex
and is affected by many factors. Options A and B are details in the passage but not central ideas. Option D is
erroneous information.
Part Two: Options A and B are the correct answers since they support the central idea that the body clock
is complex and that it is affected by many factors. “Body chemicals and light” indicate the system is complex;
“Daily habits as well as age” show how the system is affected by many factors. Options C and D do not relate to
the correct central idea in Part One.
*
*
*
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 62
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
TEXT-DEPENDENT ANALYSIS QUESTION
E06.E.1.1
29.
Writer’s Checklist for the
Text-Dependent Analysis Question
PLAN before you write
• Make sure you read the question carefully.
• Make sure you have read the entire passage carefully.
• Think about how the question relates to the passage.
• Organize your ideas on scratch paper. Use a thought map, outline, or other
graphic organizer to plan your essay.
FOCUS while you write
• Analyze the information from the passage as you write your essay.
• Make sure you use evidence from the passage to support your response.
• Use precise language, a variety of sentence types, and transitions in your essay.
• Organize your paper with an introduction, body, and conclusion.
PROOFREAD after you write
I wrote my final essay in the answer booklet.
I stayed focused on answering the question.
I used evidence from the passage to support my response.
I corrected errors in capitalization, spelling, sentence formation, punctuation,
and word choice.
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 63
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.E.1.1
29.
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 64
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 65
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 66
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
TEXT-DEPENDENT ANALYSIS QUESTION SCORING GUIDELINE
Item #29
Assessment Anchor:
E06.E.1—Evidence-Based Analysis of Text
Specific Assessment Anchor Descriptor addressed by this item:
E06.E.1.1—Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reection, and research.
Score
Point
Description
4
• Effectively addresses all parts of the task demonstrating in-depth analytic understanding of
the text(s)
• Effective introduction, development, and conclusion identifying an opinion, topic, or
controlling idea related to the text(s)
• Strong organizational structure that effectively supports the focus and ideas
• Thorough analysis of explicit and implicit meanings from text(s) to effectively support
claims, opinions, ideas, and inferences
• Substantial, accurate, and direct reference to the text(s) using relevant key details, examples,
quotes, facts, and/or definitions
• Substantial reference to the main idea(s) and relevant key details of the text(s) to support the
writer’s purpose
• Skillful use of transitions to link ideas
• Effective use of precise language and domain-specific vocabulary drawn from the text(s) to
explain the topic and/or to convey experiences/events
• Few errors, if any, are present in sentence formation, grammar, usage, spelling, capitalization,
and punctuation; errors present do not interfere with meaning
3
• Adequately addresses all parts of the task demonstrating sufficient analytic understanding
of the text(s)
• Clear introduction, development, and conclusion identifying an opinion, topic, or controlling
idea related to the text(s)
• Appropriate organizational structure that adequately supports the focus and ideas
• Clear analysis of explicit and implicit meanings from text(s) to support claims, opinions,
ideas, and inferences
• Sufficient, accurate, and direct reference to the text(s) using relevant details, examples,
quotes, facts, and/or definitions
• Sufficient reference to the main idea(s) and relevant key details of the text(s) to support the
writer’s purpose
• Appropriate use of transitions to link ideas
• Appropriate use of precise language and domain-specific vocabulary drawn from the text(s)
to explain the topic and/or to convey experiences/events
• Some errors may be present in sentence formation, grammar, usage, spelling, capitalization,
and punctuation; errors present seldom interfere with meaning
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 67
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Score
Point
Description
2
• Inconsistently addresses some parts of the task demonstrating partial analytic
understanding of the text(s)
• Weak introduction, development, and/or conclusion identifying an opinion, topic, or
controlling idea somewhat related to the text(s)
• Weak organizational structure that inconsistently supports the focus and ideas
• Weak or inconsistent analysis of explicit and/or implicit meanings from text(s) that
somewhat supports claims, opinions, ideas, and inferences
• Vague reference to the text(s) using some details, examples, quotes, facts, and/or definitions
• Weak reference to the main idea(s) and relevant details of the text(s) to support the writer’s
purpose
• Inconsistent use of transitions to link ideas
• Inconsistent use of precise language and domain-specific vocabulary drawn from the text(s)
to explain the topic and/or to convey experiences/events
• Errors may be present in sentence formation, grammar, usage, spelling, capitalization, and
punctuation; errors present may interfere with meaning
1
• Minimally addresses part(s) of the task demonstrating inadequate analytic understanding of
the text(s)
• Minimal evidence of an introduction, development, and/or conclusion
• Minimal evidence of an organizational structure
• Insufficient or no analysis of the text(s); may or may not support claims, opinions, ideas, and
inferences
• Insufficient reference to the text(s) using few details, examples, quotes, facts, and/or
definitions
• Minimal reference to the main idea(s) and/or relevant details of the text(s)
• Few, if any, transitions to link ideas
• Little or no use of precise language or domain-specific vocabulary drawn from the text(s)
• Many errors may be present in sentence formation, grammar, usage, spelling, capitalization,
and punctuation; errors present often interfere with meaning
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 68
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
TEXT-DEPENDENT ANALYSIS QUESTION STUDENT RESPONSES
E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 4
29.
The sun rises and sets each day and has since the dawn of time. It’s only natural
that all living creatures on Earth would develop a day/night routine. To help us with
that we have a clock in our bodies. It’s not a real clock like we swallowed a Seth
Thomas, it’s our body’s internal clock and it is important to our everyday lives. It
helps us sleep when we need it and keeps us alert when we are awake.
The body clock does this by sending signals to various parts of our body and tells it
whether to be alert or to rest. By reading the passage you can know that “when
daylight begins to fade, your pineal gland churns out more melatonin, a hormone
that lets your organs know it’s time for sleep.” This is because humans sleep at
night and are active during the day. This makes sense considering we evolved from
hunter/gatherers that would have needed daylight to perform those activities. When
we are awake during the day, our clock stimulates our brain to keep it alert. These
signals help regulate our circadian rhythm. According to the passage, “the sleep
wake/cycle is part of a larger, 24-hour pattern called the circadian rhythm.”
Obviously, these patterns are important to our health. For kids, it helps our
development into healthy adults. If they are not working correctly, we could become
unhealthy and maybe not grow into our full potential. The passage talks about a
problem called “teenage phase shift”. The problem is that our bodies are growing
but don’t make enough Melatonin which the passage says is “the chemical that
signals our brain it’s time for bed.” This makes us stay up later and feel really tired in
the morning when we get up. If we are too tired in school, we might not be able to
get the education we need to get good jobs in the future. The good news is that
“some U.S. high schools are starting classes later in the morning so that students
can get the sleep they need. We can assume that students who start later might do
better on tests than those kids who start early (with a lack of sleep).
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 69
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
There are also things we can do to help our body’s clock. According to the passage,
“exercising at regular times, even brushing our teeth can signal your brain.” Our
biological clock lets us know when to wake up and when to sleep. But there are
things that can throw our clock out of whack. If we fly to another time zone, our
clock can get messed up. This is because “the hours between sunrise and sunset
don’t add up to a complete day.” Our body clock might not know what to do then
because it may be confused about whether it is time to sleep or be awake. The
author points out that astronauts perform tasks in space when they would normally
be sleeping. To fix this, “NASA shines bright lights on the astronauts in the middle of
the night to reset their biological clocks.” At first, it might seem that this issue would
only apply to astronauts or people who fly long distances, but the fundamental issue
of our biological clocks providing us with adequate sleep is something every one of
us will deal with at some point in our lives. In that way, a NASA astronaut on a space
walk and a teenager trying to get out of bed are not that different.
Annotation: The response effectively addresses all parts of the task demonstrating an in-depth
analytic understanding of the text. The student analyzes explicit and implicit meanings from the text
(“This makes sense considering we evolved from hunter/gatherers that would have needed daylight to
perform those activities,” “ If they are not working correctly, we could become unhealthy and maybe not
grow into our full potential,” “ If we are too tired in school, we might not be able to get the education we
need to get good jobs in the future,” “ We can assume that students who start later might do better on tests
than those kids who start early,” and “…a NASA astronaut on a space walk and a teenager trying to get out
of bed are not that different.”), effectively supporting the main idea (the idea that a fully-functioning
internal clock is an important part of everyday human functioning). Substantial, accurate, and direct
reference to the text supports the main idea (“when daylight begins to fade, your pineal gland churns out
more melatonin, a hormone that lets your organs know it’s time for sleep,” “ the sleep wake/cycle is part of
a larger, 24-hour pattern called the circadian rhythm,” “ The passage talks about a problem called ‘teenage
phase shift.’ The problem is that our bodies are growing but don’t make Melatonin which the passage says
is ‘the chemical that signals our brain it’s time for bed,’ “ “ exercising at regular times, even brushing our
teeth can signal your brain,” “ the hours between sunrise and sunset don’t add up to a complete day”). The
student employs a strong organizational structure that effectively supports the writer’s ideas. This
structure includes an effective introduction, transitions, and ideas grouped in a logical order related to
the main idea and purpose. Precise language drawn from the text (“24-hour pattern called the circadian
rhythm,” “ teenage phase shift,”) is effectively used to explain the topic. Few, if any, convention errors are
present in this response. This is a strong 4.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 70
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 4
29.
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 71
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 72
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Annotation: In this response, the student effectively addresses all parts of the task demonstrating
in-depth analytic understanding of the text. The organizational structure is strong and effectively
supports the focus and ideas. There is an effective introduction, development, and conclusion that
support the response’s controlling idea (that without our internal clocks, our lives would become
unmanageable). There is thorough analysis of the text (“Think of how hard your life would be without
any clocks. You would never know when to go to class or your job,” “ if you switch night for day long enough
your body will adjust or reset. This could happen because of different ’clues’ like eating and exercising
at regular times,” and “getting enough sleep must be pretty important if a whole school will change its
schedule just to let teens sleep in longer”) combined with substantial, accurate, and direct reference
to the text, including main ideas and relevant key details (“NASA shines lights on the astronauts to
reset their biological clocks” and “some US High Schools are starting classes later in the morning so that
students can get the sleep they need”). Transition use is sometimes skillful (“Well, your body needs a
clock too”), and sometimes adequate (“Another example” and “The last example”). Precise and domain-
specific language from the text is used throughout (“brushing your teeth and putting on your pajamas
at the same time every day” and “their body clock is ‘set’ by the sun rising and setting”). There are few
grammatical errors, but those that are present do not interfere with meaning.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 73
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
THIS PAGE IS
INTENTIONALLY BLANK.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 74
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 4
29.
Our biological clock tells us when to sleep and when to be alert. This is very
important to people’s everyday lives. Imagine what life would be like without it.
Would my dad go to work at 3 in the morning? Would kids go to school at different
times? Think how weird our world would be if we all slept during the day. It’s a good
thing our body’s clock keeps us on a schedule that works for us.
Our body clock does what it does by “sending signals to various parts of our body”
that tell us to rest or be active. This is called circadian rhythm. According to the
passage, darkness makes our body produce melatonin, a hormone that signals
sleep. This is important because, unlike some animals, humans do most out their
activities during the day like work, go to school and other things. So, our circadian
rhythm supports our lifestyles and work. One problem the author points out is that
kids produce less melatonin than adults, yet kids need more sleep than adults,
according to the chart in the passage. Sometimes, kids do not get enough sleep
and that is not good because it can affect their school work and health.
The good news is that we can control or fool our body’s clocks. The author says
that “even brushing your teeth can signal your brain” for sleep. NASA controls the
sleep patterns of astronauts by shining bright lights on them to reset their clocks so
they can work in space. But if our day doesn’t include a whole 24 hours like it might
for some travelers crossing time zones, our clock can get messed up and thereby
mess up our routines and health. So our body clocks are super sensitive, which cuts
both ways: they can get messed up easily (like by crossing time zones), but they
can also be easily tricked it back into thier normal routine (by timely tooth brushing
or shining bright lights).
Now you know why our biological clock is so, so important to people’s everyday
lives.
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 75
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Annotation: In this response, the student effectively addresses all parts of the task demonstrating
in-depth analytic understanding of the text. The organizational structure is strong and effectively
supports the focus and ideas. There is an effective introduction, development, and conclusion, all
of which support the response’s controlling idea (that our body clocks, though sensitive, keep us to
a workable schedule). There is thorough analysis of the text (“It’s a good thing our body’s clock keeps
us on a schedule that works for us,” “our clock can get messed up and thereby mess up our routines and
health,” and “our body clocks are super sensitive, which cuts both ways…”) combined with substantial,
accurate, and direct reference to the text, including main ideas and relevant key details (“by ‘sending
signals to various parts of our body ’ ” and “NASA controls the sleep patterns of astronauts by shining bright
lights on them to reset their clocks”). Transition use is sometimes skillful (“because, unlike some animals”),
and sometimes adequate (“but” and “so”). Precise and domain specific language from the text is used
throughout (“melatonin, a hormone that signals sleep” and “by timely tooth brushing or shining bright
lights”). There are few grammatical errors, and those that are present do not interfere with meaning.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 76
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 3
29.
Sleep is important to our health and our body clocks play a big role in our sleep. If
our biological clock didn’t work the way it does, we wouldn’t stay healthy and good
for long.
Without sleep the human body does not function well. And teenagers need more
sleep than adults do. The passage says that “teenagers need 9-10 hours of sleep a
night and adults need 7 to 9.” The passage also says that “during the day, your
biological clock…stimulate your brain and keep it alert.” If we don’t get the right
amount of sleep, we will begin to get sick. Since teens need more sleep, they are
probably more likely to get sick.
Being alert is important, but even more importantly, our biological clock tells us
when to sleep. The passage says that people with jet lag can take up to a week
before their biological clocks return to normal because they have crossed time
zones. This could make it rough for someone who travels a lot. Their clock might
sometimes be “out of whack” like the author says.
According to the passage, lack of sleep can make learning hard for kids. Teenagers
do not produce a lot of melatonin which is the chemical signal for bedtime. When
they go to school tired, they can’t pay attention and this can make them be crabby.
A crabby kid who isn’t paying attention to the teacher is not going to do well in
school.
So now you can see why sleep is so important and what an important role our
biological clock plays in keeping us healthy.
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 77
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Annotation: In this response, the student adequately addresses all parts of the task demonstrating
sufficient analytic understanding of the text. There is a clear introduction, development, and
conclusion identifying a controlling idea (that our body clocks control our sleep which is important
to our well-being). The organizational structure adequately supports the response’s focus and ideas.
There is clear analysis of explicit and implicit meanings from the text (“Since teens need more sleep, they
are probably more likely to get sick” and “A crabby kid who isn’t paying attention to the teacher is not going
to do well in school”). There are sufficient, direct references to the text (“teenagers need 9-10 hours of
sleep a night and adults need 7 to 9” and “people with jet lag can take up to a week before their biological
clocks return to normal”) that support the writer’s purpose. Transitions are used appropriately in the
response (“The passage also says,” “According to the passage,” and “So”) and there is appropriate use of
precise language from the text (“melatonin,” “time zones”). There are few grammatical errors present
in the response, and those that are present (e.g., “your biological clock…stimulate your brain”) do not
interfere with meaning.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 78
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 3
29.
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 79
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Annotation: In this response, the student adequately addresses all parts of the task demonstrating
sufficient analytic understanding of the text. There is a clear introduction, development, and
conclusion identifying a controlling idea (that the internal clock helps us to stay in control of our
lives). The organizational structure adequately supports the response’s focus and ideas. There is clear
analysis of explicit and implicit meanings from the text (“that’s how anyone would be if they didn’t sleep
not just teens. So, by looking at teens, we can see how important sleep is to stay alert,” “ This is probably
why many people take a nap after lunch,” and “Your body needs its sleep and food on a schedule so it
found a way to make sure it gets it: the internal clock”). There are sufficient, direct references to the text
(“teenagers experience teenage phase shift…” and “circadian rhythm even tells your stomach to produce
digestive juices at mealtimes”) that support the writer’s purpose. Transitions are used appropriately in
the response (“So” and “Another way”) and there is appropriate use of precise language from the text
(“melatonin,” “digestive juices”). There are few grammatical errors present in the response, and those
that are present do not interfere with meaning (e.g., “it’s” for its).
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 80
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 3
29.
Without our body’s internal clock, our lives would become crazy. We’d never know
when to sleep or when we should be awake. If our body never knew when to sleep,
we would eventually wear out and maybe die, because sleep is really important to
our health. Sleep is equally important for us to function. That’s why NASA makes
sure their astronauts are on a good schedule by blasting light at them at certain
times, so that their bodies can adjust and they can do jobs when they would
normally be sleeping on Earth.
When the sun is out, we are awake and when it is not, we sleep. This is called being
diurnal. In the passage the author says, “During the day, your biological clock
triggers your body to produce chemicals that stimulate your brain and keep it alert”
and “later, your biological clock signals your body that bedtime is approaching.” The
passage also says that “But the most important time clue for your biological clock is
daylight.” This system helps keep us healthy because our bodies need rest after
being active all day.
There are things that can throw your body clock off schedule too. If you fly to a
different time zone you can get jet lag because the passage says that “the more
time zones you cross, the more out of whack your biological clock gets.” According
to the author, it can take a week before your back to normal. This shows me the
importance of our body’s clock because it can be so easily messed up. Being jet
lagged is no fun, it can cause people to not function properly.
But the most important thing our body clock does is tell us when to sleep. We need
sleep to help us develop into healthy adults. The author tells us that if we don’t get
enough sleep, we’ll be cranky, get sick and have trouble learning. And, as kids we
need more sleep than adults. The passage says that the younger you are the more
sleep you need. This is to help us develop our body and our brain. For example,
babie’s bodies grow at a faster rate than any other age and they are literally learning
how to be a person so it makes sense that babies sleep so much. As you can see,
there are many reasons why our body clock is so important to our everyday lives.
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 81
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Annotation: The response adequately analyzes the importance of the body’s clock to people’s
everyday lives and demonstrates sufficient analytic understanding of the text. The student analyzes
explicit and implicit meanings from the text to support the main idea (“Without our body’s internal
clock, our lives would become crazy,” “That’s why NASA makes sure their astronauts are on a good schedule
by blasting light at them at certain times, so that their bodies can adjust and they can do jobs when they
would normally be sleeping on Earth,“ “our bodies need rest after being active all day,” “ This shows me the
importance of our body’s clock because it can be so easily messed up,” and “…they are literally learning
how to be a person so it makes sense that babies sleep so much”). Sufficient direct reference to the text
is provided (“During the day, your biological clock triggers your body to produce chemicals that stimulate
your brain and keep it alert” and “the passage says that ‘the more time zones you cross, the more out of
whack your biological clock gets’”) in support of the main idea. The student employs an appropriate
organizational structure with a clear introduction, transitions, and a conclusion. Few errors are present
in conventions.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 82
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 2
29.
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 83
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Annotation: The response inconsistently addresses the task demonstrating partial analytic
understanding of the text. There is weak analysis of explicit meanings from the text (“…without it, it
would be very hard for us to live our daily lives because we might get sick or not be able to function well
if we don’t get enough sleep” and “This tells me that sleep is more important to teenagers that adults”)
that goes just beyond a literal interpretation of the text’s information. There are weak references to
the main ideas and relevant details of the text (“…most people have a pattern of when they are sleepy
and when they aren’t” and “The chart on the forth page shows that teenagers need 9 to 10 hours of sleep
but adults only need 7 to 9 hours”). The response has a weak organizational structure with a weak
introduction and a simplistic conclusion. The response does feature transitions (“If we didn’t have that”
and “This tells me”); however, there is little use of precise language and vocabulary drawn from the
text to explain the topic. The response has some convention errors, including usage errors (“I always
be sure to” for I am always sure to, “forth” for fourth, and errors with body’s, bodies, and bodies’) and a
misspelling (”arn’t” for aren’t).
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 84
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 2
29.
The internal clock is important to everyone. Without it we wouldn’t know when to go
to sleep, when to wake up or when to eat food. One way our body regulates our
internal clock is by getting tired right before bedtime. This happens because it gets
dark out and because of eating and excercising at regular times and even because
you brush you’re teeth (remember to brush!) All the things you do on schedule every
night make your brain say “Hey it must be time to go to bed!” One thing that
teenagers do to regulate our internal clocks is we should start school later because
teens have “phase shift” which means they don’t get enough melatonin so they stay
up late and can’t get up early. In conclusion, our internal clock helps us keep on a
schedule. We help our clock stay on schedule by getting enough sleep so we’re not
tired the next day (and by eating at mealtimes). So make sure your internal clock
isn’t going to fast or too slow and better yet make sure it doesn’t stop!
Annotation: In this response, the student inconsistently addresses the task demonstrating partial
analytic understanding of the text (“Without it [the internal clock] we wouldn’t know when to go to sleep
. . .” and “our internal clock helps us keep on a schedule”). There is evidence of a weak organizational
structure, including a weak introduction, development, and conclusion related to the text that
inconsistently supports the focus and ideas. There is some inconsistent analysis of explicit and implicit
meanings from the text (“All the things you do on schedule every night make your brain say ‘Hey it must
be time to go to bed!’”), which goes beyond a literal interpretation of one of the text’s main ideas.
References to the text are generally vague or awkwardly employed (“We help our clock stay on schedule
by getting enough sleep so we’re not tired the next day (and by eating at mealtimes)” and “teens have
‘phase shift’ which means they don’t get enough melatonin so they stay up late and can’t get up early”).
There is some use of transitions (“One way,” “ One thing,” and “In conclusion”). Errors are present in usage
(“you’re teeth” for your teeth) and spelling (“excercising” for exercising); however, they do not interfere
with meaning.
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
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E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 1
29.
What makes you sleepy at bedtime? The body regalates its internal clock and its
important to people’s lives. I will use evidence from the passage to support my
response. Your body’s clock is in your brain, I know this because in the passage it
says “It’s actually two tiny clumps of nerve cells” Youre body also has a sleep cycle.
In the passage the heading says “The Sleep Cycle”
In conclusion, those are my ways that the body regalates its internal clock with
evidence from the passage to support my response.
Annotation: The response minimally addresses the task of analyzing the importance of the body’s
clock to people’s everyday lives, demonstrating inadequate analytic understanding of the text.
Minimal reference to the main ideas is evident, and the response does not demonstrate any analysis of
explicit or implicit meanings from the text. There is a simplistic introduction (“What makes you sleepy
at bedtime?”) and the conclusion is one sentence and only paraphrases the item’s wording. References
to the text are insufficient (“…in the passage it says, ‘It’s actually two tiny clumps of nerve cells’” and “In
the passage the heading says, ‘The Sleep Cycle’”). Minimal evidence of an organizational structure is
present. There is a rhetorical question to begin the essay, and one simplistic transition (“In conclusion”)
is employed near the end. The response contains only minor convention errors including a misspelling
(“regalates” for regulates), a usage error (“Youre” for Your), and a punctuation error (missing period).
There is also one incorrectly formed sentence in the form of a comma splice/run-on.
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
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E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 1
29.
Annotation: In this response, the student minimally addresses part of the task demonstrating an
inadequate analytic understanding of the text. The student explains, in simplistic terms, how the
internal clock helps people (“…if your tird your not going to learn much” and “Without are internrl
clocks we would always be late for stuff”). There is minimal evidence of an organizational structure
and minimal reference to main ideas or relevant details of the text. There is no analysis of, and only
insufficient reference to, the text (“Teenagers need more sleep” and “your brain gives you melltonin”). Few
transitions are present. There is little use of precise language drawn from the text. The many errors
in spelling (“tird,” “ shool,” and “internrl”) and usage (“your not going to learn much” and “And its tiny”)
sometimes interfere with meaning.
PSSA ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
The passage discusses how the body regulates its internal clock. Write an essay
analyzing the importance of the body’s clock to people’s everyday lives. Use evidence
from the passage to support your response.
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PASSAGE 4
Read the following passage about a young person and an encouraging teacher. Then answer
questions 30–39.
School Days
excerpt from Anne of Green Gables
by Lucy Maud Montgomery
It was October again when Anne was ready to go back to school—a glorious October, all red
and gold, with mellow mornings when the valleys were filled with delicate mists as if the spirit of
autumn had poured them in for the sun to drain—amethyst, pearl, silver, rose, and smoke-blue.
The dews were so heavy that the fields glistened like cloth of silver and there were such heaps of
rustling leaves in the hollows of many-stemmed woods to run crisply through. The Birch Path was
a canopy of yellow and the ferns were sear and brown all along it. There was a tang in the very
air that inspired the hearts of small maidens tripping, unlike snails, swiftly and willingly to school;
and it was jolly to be back again at the little brown desk beside Diana, with Ruby Gillis nodding
across the aisle and Carrie Sloane sending up notes. Anne drew a long breath of happiness as
she sharpened her pencil and arranged her picture cards in her desk. Life was certainly very
interesting.
In the new teacher she found another true and helpful friend. Miss Stacy was a bright,
sympathetic young woman with the happy gift of winning and holding the affections of her pupils
and bringing out the best that was in them mentally. Anne expanded like a flower under this
wholesome influence and carried home to the admiring Matthew and the critical Marilla glowing
accounts of schoolwork and aims.
“I love Miss Stacy with my whole heart, Marilla. She is so ladylike and she has such a sweet
voice. When she pronounces my name I feel instinctively that she’s spelling it with an E. We had
recitations this afternoon. I just wish you could have been there to hear me recite ‘Mary, Queen of
Scots.’ Ruby Gillis told me coming home that the way I said the line, ‘Now for my father’s arm,’
she said, ‘my woman’s heart farewell,’ just made her blood run cold.”
“Well now, you might recite it for me some of these days, out in the barn,” suggested Matthew.
“Of course I will,” said Anne meditatively, “but I won’t be able to do it so well, I know. It won’t
be so exciting as it is when you have a whole schoolful before you hanging breathlessly on your
words. I know I won’t be able to make your blood run cold.”
“Mrs. Lynde says it made her blood run cold to see the boys climbing to the very tops of those
big trees on Bell’s hill after crows’ nests last Friday,” said Marilla. “I wonder at Miss Stacy for
encouraging it.”
“But we wanted a crow’s nest for nature study,” explained Anne. “That was on our field
afternoon. Field afternoons are splendid, Marilla. And Miss Stacy explains everything so
beautifully. We have to write compositions on our field afternoons and I write the best ones.”
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“It’s very vain of you to say so then. You’d better let your teacher say it.”
“But she did say it, Marilla. And indeed I’m not vain about it. How can I be, when geometry is
difficult for me? Although I’m really beginning to see through it a little, too. Miss Stacy makes it
so clear. Still, I’ll never be good at it and I assure you it is a humbling reflection. But I love writing
compositions. Mostly Miss Stacy lets us choose our own subjects; but next week we are to write a
composition on some remarkable person. It’s hard to choose among so many remarkable people
who have lived. Mustn’t it be splendid to be remarkable and have compositions written about you
after you’re dead? Oh, I would dearly love to be remarkable. I think when I grow up I’ll be a trained
nurse and go with the Red Crosses to the field of battle as a messenger of mercy. That is, if I don’t
go out as a foreign missionary. That would be very romantic, but one would have to be very good
to be a missionary, and that would be a stumbling block. We have physical culture exercises every
day, too. They make you graceful and promote digestion.”
“Promote fiddlesticks!” said Marilla, who honestly thought it was all nonsense.
But all the field afternoons and recitation Fridays and physical culture contortions paled before
a project which Miss Stacy brought forward in November. This was that the scholars of Avonlea
school should get up a concert and hold it in the hall for the laudable purpose of helping to pay
for a schoolhouse flag. The pupils one and all taking graciously to this plan, the preparations for a
program were begun at once. And of all the excited performers-elect none was so excited as Anne
Shirley, who threw herself into the undertaking, hampered as she was by Marilla’s disapproval.
Marilla thought it all rank foolishness.
“It’s just filling your heads up with nonsense and taking time that ought to be put on your
lessons,” she grumbled. “I don’t approve of children’s getting up concerts and racing about to
practices. It makes them vain and forward and fond of gadding
1
.”
“But think of the worthy object,” pleaded Anne. “A flag will cultivate a spirit of patriotism,
Marilla.”
“There’s precious little patriotism in the thoughts of any of you. All you want is a good time.”
“Well, when you can combine patriotism and fun, isn’t it all right? Of course it’s real nice to
be getting up a concert. We’re going to have six choruses and Diana is to sing a solo. I’m in two
dialogues—‘The Society for the Suppression of Gossip’ and ‘The Fairy Queen.’ The boys are going
to have a dialogue too. And I’m to have two recitations, Marilla. I just tremble when I think of it, but
it’s a nice thrilly kind of tremble. I’m going to practice my recitations in the garret. Don’t be alarmed
if you hear me groaning. I have to groan heartrendingly in one of them, and it’s really hard to get
up a good artistic groan, Marilla. Josie Pye is sulky because she didn’t get the part she wanted in
the dialogue. She wanted to be the fairy queen. Jane Andrews is to be the queen and I am to be
one of her maids of honor. I’m to have a wreath of white roses on my hair and Ruby Gillis is going
to lend me her slippers because I haven’t any of my own. It’s necessary for fairies to have slippers,
you know. You couldn’t imagine a fairy wearing boots, could you? Especially with copper toes?
We are going to decorate the hall with creeping spruce and fir mottoes with pink tissue-paper
roses in them. And we are all to march in two by two after the audience is seated, while Emma
White plays a march on the organ. Oh, Marilla, I know you are not so enthusiastic about it as I am,
but don’t you hope your little Anne will distinguish herself?”
1 gadding—to move restlessly or aimlessly from one place to another
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“All I hope is that you’ll behave yourself. I’ll be heartily glad when all this fuss is over and you’ll
be able to settle down. You are simply good for nothing just now with your head stuffed full of
dialogues and groans. As for your tongue, it’s a marvel it’s not clean worn out.”
Anne sighed and betook herself to the back yard, over which a young new moon was shining
through the leafless poplar boughs from an apple-green western sky, and where Matthew was
splitting wood. Anne perched herself on a block and talked the concert over with him, sure of an
appreciative and sympathetic listener in this instance at least.
“Well now, I reckon it’s going to be a pretty good concert. And I expect you’ll do your part
fine,” he said, smiling down into her eager, vivacious little face. Anne smiled back at him. Those
two were the best of friends and Matthew thanked his stars many a time and oft that he had
nothing to do with bringing her up. That was Marilla’s exclusive duty; if it had been his he would
have been worried over frequent conflicts between inclination and said duty. As it was, he was free
to, “spoil Anne”—Marilla’s phrasing—as much as he liked. But it was not such a bad arrangement
after all; a little “appreciation” sometimes does quite as much good as all the conscientious
“bringing up” in the world.
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MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS
E06.A-C.2.1.3
30. Read the sentence from the passage.
“There was a tang in the very air that inspired the hearts of small maidens tripping, unlike
snails, swiftly and willingly to school . . .”
What effect does the word “very” have on the sentence?
A. It emphasizes the truth of something that may seem doubtful.
B. It emphasizes the importance of something that is usually unremarkable.
C. It emphasizes the components in the environment that combine to create the charm of
the setting.
D. It emphasizes the abundance of the element that is responsible for the happiness of the
girls.
The student is asked to determine the effect that the word “very” has on the given sentence. Option B is the
correct answer. Children going to school in the autumn is a yearly occurrence and not unique. However, the
use of the word “very” emphasizes the importance of the event to the characters in the passage. Option A is
incorrect since there would be no reason for the reader to doubt children going to school. Options C and D
are not supported by information in the passage.
*
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E06.A-V.4.1.2
31. Read the sentence from the passage.
“Anne expanded like a flower under this wholesome influence . . .”
What does the figurative language in the sentence most suggest?
A. Anne began to be more expressive.
B. Anne began to change and mature.
C. Anne began to value physical beauty.
D. Anne began to act natural and relaxed.
The student is asked to interpret the meaning of a sentence from the passage that contains figurative
language. Option B is the correct answer since the simile of flowering suggests changing or growing in
a positive way. Option A is incorrect since Anne was already expressive, and flowering does not suggest
becoming expressive. Option C is incorrect since is it not supported by context. Option D is in incorrect since
it reflects a misinterpretation of the figurative language.
E06.A-V.4.1.2
32. Read the sentence from the passage.
“ ‘Mrs. Lynde says it made her blood run cold to see the boys climbing to the very tops of
those big trees on Bell’s hill after crows’ nests last Friday,’ said Marilla.”
Based on the phrase “made her blood run cold,” how did Mrs. Lynde feel about observing the
children?
A. bewildered
B. frightened
C. offended
D. excited
The student is asked to interpret the meaning of a phrase that contains figurative language from the passage.
Option B is the correct answer since the given phrase suggests a feeling of fear or shock. Options A, C, and D
are incorrect since they are not supported by context.
*
*
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E06.A-K.1.1.1
33. Read the sentence from the passage.
“ ‘It’s just filling your heads up with nonsense and taking time that ought to be put on your
lessons,’ she grumbled.”
Which inference about Marilla is best supported by the sentence?
A. Marilla wants Anne to be more practical.
B. Marilla wants Anne to spend less time at school.
C. Marilla is upset that Anne likes the teacher so much.
D. Marilla is surprised that Anne enjoys life more than Marilla does.
The student is asked to determine an inference about Marilla that can best be made based on the given
sentence from the passage. Option A is the correct answer since the words “filling your heads up with
nonsense” suggest that Marilla wants Anne to focus on more sensible things related to school; this option is
also correct since Marilla is portrayed in the passage as being pragmatic and duty oriented. Option B is not
correct since Marilla states that she wants Anne to focus on her lessons. Options C and D are not supported
by information in the passage.
E06.A-V.4.1.1
34. Which meaning of the word exclusive is used in the last paragraph of the passage?
A. single; only
B. fashionable; stylish
C. limited to a group; private
D. characterized by the expense; costly
The student is asked to use context clues to determine the meaning of a multiple-meaning word. Option A is
the correct answer. The sentence “. . . Matthew thanked his stars many a time and oft that he had nothing to do
with bringing her up” gives context to the use of the word “exclusive.” Since Matthew did not get involved with
raising Anne, that duty fell to Marilla. Options B, C, and D are not supported by context clues in the passage.
*
*
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E06.A-C.2.1.2
35. Which sentence from the passage best develops a theme by revealing the main character’s
attitude toward life?
A. “ ‘Still, I’ll never be good at it and I assure you it is a humbling reflection.’ ”
B. “ ‘That would be very romantic, but one would have to be very good to be a missionary,
and that would be a stumbling block.’ ”
C. “And of all the excited performers-elect none was so excited as Anne Shirley, who threw
herself into the undertaking, hampered as she was by Marilla’s disapproval.”
D. “Anne perched herself on a block and talked the concert over with him, sure of an
appreciative and sympathetic listener in this instance at least.”
The student is asked to determine which sentence from the passage best develops a theme by revealing
the main character’s attitude toward life. Option C is the correct answer since it reveals the importance of
engaging in actions with enthusiasm despite being surrounded by the negativity of others. Options A and
B are incorrect since they reveal self-doubt rather than a positive attitude. Option D is incorrect because it
relates to the reactions of Matthew and not to Anne’s actions.
*
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E06.A-K.1.1.2
36. Which sentence best expresses a main theme of the passage?
A. “The dews were so heavy that the fields glistened like cloth of silver and there were such
heaps of rustling leaves in the hollows of many-stemmed woods to run crisply through.”
B. “The Birch Path was a canopy of yellow and the ferns were sear and brown all along it.”
C. “Miss Stacy was a bright, sympathetic young woman with the happy gift of winning and
holding the affections of her pupils and bringing out the best that was in them mentally.”
D. “ ‘Mostly Miss Stacy lets us choose our own subjects; but next week we are to write a
composition on some remarkable person.’ ”
The student is asked to determine a main theme of the passage. Option C is the correct answer since it reveals
the influence that adults have on the development of a young person. Options A and B are incorrect since
they relate to descriptions of nature, which are not associated with a main theme. Option D is incorrect since
it relates to personal choice, which is not associated with a main theme.
E06.A-C.2.1.1
37. Which statement best explains how the author’s purpose is achieved by the use of a literary
element in the passage?
A. The visual description allows the setting to motivate character actions.
B. The point of view allows for multiple perspectives of the same events.
C. The pace of the plot enables the theme to be revealed gradually.
D. The dialogue reveals the relationship between characters.
The student is asked to determine how the author’s purpose is achieved by the use of a literary element in
the passage. Option D is the correct answer since it is the dialogue between Anne, Marilla, and Matthew that
best achieves the author’s purpose. The dialogue reveals Anne’s desire for Marilla’s support, Marilla’s desire for
Anne to focus on duty, and Matthew’s desire for a friendship with Anne. Option A is incorrect since the setting
has little influence on the motivation of the characters. Option B is incorrect; although the point of view does
switch among the characters, it is the relationship among the characters that the author wishes to emphasize.
Option C is incorrect since the pace has little influence on how the theme is revealed.
*
*
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EVIDENCE-BASED SELECTED-RESPONSE QUESTIONS
E06.A-K.1.1.1
38. This question has two parts. Answer Part One and then answer Part Two.
Part One
Which word best describes Anne?
A. fearless
B. generous
C. careful
D. dramatic
Part Two
Which evidence from the passage best supports the answer in Part One? Choose one
answer.
A. “ ‘I have to groan heartrendingly in one of them, and it’s really hard to get up a good
artistic groan, Marilla.’”
B. “ ‘Jane Andrews is to be the queen and I am to be one of her maids of honor.’”
C. “ ‘I’m to have a wreath of white roses on my hair and Ruby Gillis is going to lend me her
slippers . . .’ ”
D. “ ‘And we are all to march in two by two after the audience is seated . . .’ ”
The student is asked to determine which word best describes Anne and then to select a sentence from the
passage that best supports the inference.
Part One: Option D is the correct and best answer since Anne’s words and actions throughout the passage
are filled with emotions. Option A may be plausible but is not the best answer since Anne indicates her
nervousness at learning her lines. Options B and C are not supported by information in the passage.
Part Two: Option A is the correct answer since Anne’s expression is indicative of her exaggerated reactions.
Options B, C, and D do not support the correct inference in Part One.
*
*
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E06.A-K.1.1.3
39. This question has two parts. Answer Part One and then answer Part Two.
Part One
Which statement best expresses how the resolution of the plot affects Matthew?
A. Matthew is grateful for the relationship with Anne.
B. Matthew is pleased to have company while working.
C. Matthew realizes he has more to learn about raising children.
D. Matthew hopes Anne will perform the recitation in the barn.
Part Two
Which sentences support the answer in Part One? Choose two answers.
A. “ ‘Well, now, I reckon it’s going to be a pretty good concert.’ ”
B. “ ‘And I expect you’ll do your part fine,’ he said . . . ”
C. “Those two were the best of friends and Matthew thanked his stars many a time and
oft . . .”
D. “As it was, he was free to, ‘spoil Anne’—Marilla’s phrasing—as much as he liked.”
The student is asked to determine how the resolution of the plot affects Matthew and to select sentences
from the passage that support this analysis.
Part One: Option A is the correct answer since when Anne visits Matthew in the back yard, Matthew is able
to reflect on how he feels about their optimistic relationship. Option B may be true but does not show the
strongest effect that the resolution has on Matthew. Option C is incorrect since Matthew is not directly
involved in raising Anne. Option D is not supported by information in the passage.
Part Two: Options C and D support Matthew’s gratitude for the close and supportive relationship he has with
Anne. Options A and B do not support the correct answer from Part One.
*
*
*
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
“The Poem of Stone Soup” from www.xsoup4u.com © by Ilya Ben Goldberg. Used with permission from Ilya Ben
Goldberg.
“Children Under 12 Banned from Skateboarding” © 2010 and used with permission of ReadWorks.org.
“The Body’s Clock” material from Zzz . . . : The Most Interesting Book You’ll Ever Read about Sleep written by Trudee
Romanek is used by permission of Kids Can Press Ltd., Toronto. Text © 2002 Trudee Romanek.
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Section 2
Directions: On the following pages are Language questions and the writing prompts.
Directions for Multiple-Choice Questions:
Each question will ask you to select an answer from among four choices.
For the multiple-choice questions:
• Read each question and choose the best answer.
• Only one of the answers provided is correct.
• Record your choice in the answer booklet.
Directions for the Writing Prompt:
• Review the Writer’s Checklist to help you plan and organize your response.
• Read the writing prompt carefully.
• Write your response in the appropriate space in the answer booklet.
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STANDALONE MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS
E06.D.1.1.1
40. Read the paragraph.
(1) This year, the spelling bee finalists were my friend Jason and I. (2) The two of us
advanced to the final round. (3) Jason seemed calmer than me. (4) In the end, though,
Jason and I both won because the officials declared a tie.
Which underlined pronoun should be replaced?
A. I in sentence 1
B. us in sentence 2
C. me in sentence 3
D. I in sentence 4
The student is asked to identify which pronoun is not being used in the proper case. In Option A, the
underlined pronoun is correctly written in the subjective case. In Option B, the underlined pronoun is the
object of the preposition and is correctly written in the objective case. In Option C, the underlined pronoun is
the subject of a clause and should be written in the subjective case as “I,” not the objective case. In Option D,
the underlined pronoun is the subject of the sentence and is correctly written in the subjective case.
*
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E06.D.1.1.1
41. Read the paragraph.
(1) Everyone filed into Philadelphia’s City Hall except Sarah and me. (2) Us two
classmates wanted to look at the building for a while longer. (3) She and me gazed at
the amazing structure. (4) The giant statue of William Penn gazed back at Sarah and I,
reminding us of the history of our state.
Which underlined pronoun is used correctly?
A. me in sentence 1
B. Us in sentence 2
C. me in sentence 3
D. I in sentence 4
The student is asked to identify which underlined pronoun is used correctly. In Option A, the objective case
pronoun “me” is used correctly because it is the object of the preposition “except” and therefore requires the
objective case. In Option B, the objective pronoun “Us” is used incorrectly because it is the subject of the
sentence and therefore requires the subjective case. In Option C, the objective case pronoun “me” is used
incorrectly because it is one of the subjects of the sentence and therefore requires the subjective case. In
Option D, the subjective case pronoun “I” is used incorrectly because it is one of the objects of the preposition
“at” and therefore requires the objective case.
*
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E06.D.1.1.2
42. Read the paragraph.
(1) The science museum itself was holding an exhibition of students’ science work.
(2) The opportunity to attend for free was granted to science teachers themselves.
(3) Before the teachers attended the exhibition, the school secretary herself arranged
for some refreshments to be served. (4) Myself was planning to attend.
Which change should be made to correct the error in the paragraph?
A. Change itself to it in sentence 1.
B. Change themselves to ourselves in sentence 2.
C. Change herself to she in sentence 3.
D. Change Myself to I in sentence 4.
The student is asked to identify which change to the paragraph corrects the error in pronoun usage. In
Option A, “itself” is used correctly to intensify “museum.” In Option B, “themselves” is correctly used to intensify
“teachers.” In Option C, “herself” is used correctly to intensify “secretary.” In Option D, “myself” is incorrect
because it is an intensive pronoun incorrectly functioning as the subject of the sentence and should therefore
be replaced with the subjective pronoun “I.”
*
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E06.D.1.1.3
43. Read the paragraph.
(1) Yesterday we spent a social studies class period learning about flight, and most of us
thought it fascinating to learn about. (2) First we saw a movie about the famous Wright
brothers, Orville and Wilbur, and their early experiments flying airplanes. (3) Then a guest
speaker told us about her job as a jet pilot. (4) After that, we made paper airplanes and
launched it to see whose airplane stayed in the air the longest.
Which change should be made to correct the error in the paragraph?
A. Change it to them in sentence 1.
B. Change their to our in sentence 2.
C. Change us to me in sentence 3.
D. Change it to them in sentence 4.
The student is asked to identify which change to the paragraph corrects the error in pronoun-antecedent
agreement. In Option A, the pronoun “it” is correct because its antecedent is “flight,” which is singular. In
Option B, the pronoun “their” is correct because its antecedent is “Orville and Wilbur,” which is plural, and
therefore the option correctly suggests the possessive plural pronoun “their.” In Option C, the pronoun “us” is
correct because it agrees with the first-person plural “we.” In Option D, the pronoun “it” is incorrect because
its antecedent is “airplanes,” which is plural, and therefore the option correctly suggests the plural pronoun
“them.”
*
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E06.D.1.1.4
44. Read the sentences.
(1) Last year the art club participated in workshops, hosted exhibits, and visited local art
galleries. (2) This made being in art club enjoyable and rewarding.
Which revision best corrects the vague or unclear pronoun in sentence 2?
A. These activities made being in art club enjoyable and rewarding.
B. Which is why being in art club was enjoyable and rewarding.
C. It was what made being in art club enjoyable and rewarding.
D. That made being in art club enjoyable and rewarding.
The student is asked to choose the revision that best corrects the vague or unclear pronoun. Option A begins
with “these activities,” which is a specific subject that clarifies the vague pronoun “this.” Option B begins with
“Which,” which does not clarify the vague pronoun “this.” Option C begins with “It,” which does not clarify the
vague pronoun “this.” Option D begins with “That,” which does not clarify the vague pronoun “this.”
E06.D.1.1.5
45. Read the paragraph.
(1) Last year our teacher assigned us the task of making a class book. (2) We complete
the last few pages a week before the book was due. (3) The only piece that remained
unfinished was the cover. (4) Stephan volunteered to design it, but he never finished it.
Which sentence in the paragraph contains an error in verb tense?
A. sentence 1
B. sentence 2
C. sentence 3
D. sentence 4
The student is asked to identify which sentence contains an incorrect shift in verb tense. In Option A,
the paragraph is established in past tense with the detail “Last year” and the verb “assigned.” In Option B,
“complete” is in present tense and is therefore incorrect. In Option C, the past tense is reestablished with the
verb “remained.” In Option D, the past tense continues with “volunteered” and “finished.”
*
*
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E06.D.1.1.6
46. Read the paragraph.
(1) There is an easy way to improve your ability to remember a person’s name. (2) When
you are introduced to someone, repeat that person’s name. (3) For example, if you have
just met Joy, say to her, “It’s very nice to meet you, Joy.” (4) Now you are more likely to
remember Joy’s name it is a simple but effective trick.
Which sentence is a run-on sentence and should be written as two sentences?
A. sentence 1
B. sentence 2
C. sentence 3
D. sentence 4
The student is asked to identify the run-on sentence. Option A is a grammatically correct simple sentence
and therefore does not contain a run-on sentence. Option B is a grammatically correct complex sentence and
therefore does not contain a run-on sentence. Option C is a grammatically correct complex sentence and
therefore does not contain a run-on sentence. Option D contains two simple sentence sentences written as
one sentence and therefore is a run-on sentence.
E06.D.1.1.7
47. Which underlined word should be changed to correct an error in word usage?
A. Her latest painting earned her a compliment from a famous art critic.
B. With drums beating and cymbals crashing, the marching band passed down the street.
C. The most interesting character in the book was a miner character named Duncan.
D. By reading a newspaper article each day, we gained much insight into current events.
The student is asked to identify an error in word usage. Option A uses the homophone “compliment” correctly
and is therefore not the correct answer. Option B uses the homophone “cymbals” correctly and is therefore
not the correct answer. Option C incorrectly uses the homophone “miner,” which means someone who
mines, instead of “minor,” as in of lesser importance, and is therefore the correct answer. Option D uses the
homophone “insight” correctly and is therefore not the correct answer.
*
*
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E06.D.1.1.8
48. Read the paragraph.
(1) Although robots are used for an increasing number of activities, scientists who
program them says that there are many things they cannot do well. (2) One of those
things is communicating through conversation. (3) Human beings naturally detect
meaning in words that robots do not. (4) Programmers of robots hope to make
advances, but for now, humans are the better communicators.
Which change should be made to the paragraph to correct the error in subject-verb
agreement?
A. Change says to say in sentence 1.
B. Change is to are in sentence 2.
C. Change detect to detects in sentence 3.
D. Change hope to hopes in sentence 4.
The student is asked to identify and correct an error in subject-verb agreement. Option A contains the error
because the plural subject “scientists,” followed by a restrictive adjective clause, does not agree with the
verb “says,” which would agree with a singular subject. A student might think that “things” is the subject of
“is communicating” and choose Option B, but the actual subject is “one,” and the sentence is correct as is. A
student might think that “human” is the subject of “detect” and choose Option C, but the actual subject is
“beings” and the sentence is correct as is. The subject and verb in Option D, “programmers” and “hope,” are in
agreement and therefore correct.
*
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E06.D.1.2.1
49. Read the paragraph.
(1) The Portuguese water dog, a working breed was once a valued companion to people
who fish. (2) In fact, these dogs worked on boats that fished along the coast of Portugal.
(3) The Portuguese water dog, a highly skilled swimmer, herded fish toward fishing nets.
(4) They were also messengers, which meant they delivered news from one boat to
another.
Which revision should be made to the paragraph?
A. Add a comma after breed in sentence 1.
B. Add a comma after boats in sentence 2.
C. Remove the comma after dog in sentence 3.
D. Remove the comma after messengers in sentence 4.
The student is asked to correct an error by adding or removing a comma from a sentence. Option A is correct
because a comma after “breed” is necessary to set off the nonessential appositive. Option B is incorrect
because the relative clause that begins with “that” is essential to the meaning of the sentence and does not
need to be set off by a comma. Option C is incorrect because a comma is necessary to set off the nonessential
appositive. Option D is incorrect because a comma is necessary to set off the nonessential relative clause
following “messengers.”
*
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E06.D.1.2.2
50. Read the sentences.
(1) When asked to summerize his thoughts about his favorite book, Alan explained why
he thought the main character Pip was fascinating. (2) Pip was not only observant but
also courteous to others.
Which change should be made to correct the error in spelling?
A. Change summerize to summarize in sentence 1.
B. Change fascinating to fassinating in sentence 1.
C. Change observant to obzervant in sentence 2.
D. Change courteous to curteous in sentence 2.
The student is asked to identify an error in spelling. Option A is the correct answer, since the word “summerize”
is spelled incorrectly. Options B, C, and D all change correctly spelled words to incorrect spellings.
E06.D.1.2.3
51. Which sentence contains a mistake in comma usage?
A. The play about immigrating to the United States was inspiring, educational, and
entertaining.
B. The squirrel leaped from one branch to another, scrambled quickly, down the tree, and
raced across the yard.
C. We walked along the lakeshore, stopped at a small park for lunch, and then went
swimming at a beach.
D. Hiking, biking, and canoeing are some popular outdoor activities in the Pocono
Mountains of Pennsylvania.
The student is asked to identify which sentence incorrectly uses commas to separate items in a series.
OptionA correctly uses commas to separate three adjectives in a series and is therefore not the correct
answer. Option B incorrectly uses commas to separate three verb phrases in a series by adding an
unnecessary comma after “quickly” and is therefore the correct answer. Option C correctly uses commas
to separate three verb phrases in a series and is therefore not the correct answer. Option D correctly uses
commas to separate three nouns in a series and is therefore not the correct answer.
*
*
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E06.D.2.1.1
52. Read the paragraph.
(1) Many plants provide food for us to eat. (2) We may eat the fruit or the leaves of a plant.
(3) Some plant stalks that grow underground have swollen, thickened parts that can be
eaten. (4) These parts of the stalk are called tubers. (5) Other plants produce roots that
can be eaten. (6) A few plants that produce food underground are carrots, beets, and
potatoes.
Which revision that combines sentences 3 and 4 into one sentence best improves the style of
the paragraph?
A. Growing swollen, thickened parts of a stalk underground, the tuber is food for us to eat.
B. Some plant stalks that grow underground have swollen, thickened parts called tubers
that can be eaten.
C. We can eat some plant stalks that grow underground and have swollen, thickened parts,
and these parts are called tubers.
D. Some plant stalks that grow underground have swollen, thickened parts that can be
eaten, and those parts are called tubers.
The student is asked to choose which revision that combines two sentences into one most improves the style
of the paragraph. Although Option A contains important ideas from both sentences, it creates a meaning not
expressed in the two sentences. Option B is correct because it combines sentences 3 and 4 into one sentence
that concisely expresses the ideas of both sentences. Although Option C combines the two sentences into
one grammatically correct sentence, it lacks the conciseness of the correct answer. Although OptionD
combines sentences 3 and 4 into one grammatically correct sentence, it lacks conciseness of the correct
answer.
*
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E06.D.2.1.2
53. Read the paragraph.
The painted turtle is a common reptile in North America. This reptile can most often be
found in water. With its webbed feet, the painted turtle is an effective swimmer.
Which sentence could be added to best fit the style of the paragraph?
A. A painted turtle can eat lots of plants and stuff.
B. It’s totally easy to spot a painted turtle on a rock.
C. A painted turtle will lie in the sun to warm itself.
D. This critter gets to be only about 10 inches long.
The student is asked to add a sentence that maintains the style of the paragraph. Option A is incorrect
because it presents informal diction that is inconsistent with the formal style of the paragraph. Option B is
incorrect because it presents informal diction that is inconsistent with the formal style of the paragraph.
Option C is correct because it maintains the formal style of the paragraph. Option D is incorrect because it
presents informal diction that is inconsistent with the formal style of the paragraph.
*
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E06.D.2.1.3
54. Read the sentences.
As a leader of the study group, Jennifer’s first task was to go over the instructions to
the assignment. Once the other group members indicated that they understood the
instructions, Jennifer would signal for the work to begin.
To be more precise, which word best replaces the underlined words in the sentences?
A. explain
B. recall
C. recite
D. state
The student is asked to choose a more precise word to replace the underlined phrase. Option A is correct
because “explain” more precisely represents Jennifer’s action within the context of the sentences. Although
Option B might be an attractive choice, it fails to suggest that Jennifer communicated the instructions in such
a way as to ensure that the group members understood. Although Option C might be an attractive choice,
it fails to suggest that Jennifer communicated the instructions in such a way as to ensure that the group
members understood. Although Option D suggests that Jennifer communicated the instructions, it fails to
suggest that she did so to ensure that the group members understood.
*
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E06.D.2.1.3
55. Read the paragraph.
(1) Grandpa grew up in Chicago, and on Saturday mornings he walked to the bakery
with his mother. (2) The baker greeted them each with a small sample when they arrived.
(3) As a child, Grandpa’s favorite sample was the bakery’s dessert.
For the paragraph to be more precise, which group of words best replaces the underlined
word in sentence 3?
A. special treats
B. delicious goods
C. sweet items
D. raspberry cupcakes
The student is asked to identify which revision of a word is most precise. Option A lacks precision in its use of
the vague adjective “special” and the categorical word “treats.” Option B uses the adjective “delicious,” but the
word “goods” is vague, and therefore the revision is not precise. Option C uses the adjective “sweet,” but the
word “items” lacks specificity. Option D is correct because it precisely identifies the flavor, “raspberry,” and type
of dessert, “cupcakes.”
*
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E06.D.2.1.4
56. Read the sentences from a story.
(1) “The paint is dry,” Mary said. “We can start the second coat whenever you’re ready.”
(2) “I’ll get the paint and brush,” Albert replied.
(3) “And I’ll get the ladder,” Mary added.
(4) “I think blue will be a nice color,” Albert remarked.
(5) Mary quickly replied, “You’re going to use blue.”
(6) “Yes, that was the color we agreed to use,” Albert said.
(7) “But yellow will be so much brighter,” Mary pleaded.
Which sentence needs a question mark to indicate that it is spoken as a question and not a
statement?
A. sentence 2
B. sentence 4
C. sentence 5
D. sentence 7
The student is asked to identify which sentence of dialogue requires a question mark because it is being
spoken as a question, not a statement. Option A is incorrect because it states Albert’s intention. Option B
is incorrect because it states Albert’s thoughts about the color “blue.” Option C is correct because Mary is
not making a statement but asking a question about the color “blue.” Option D is incorrect because Mary is
making a statement about the color “yellow.”
*
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E06.D.2.1.5
57. Read the sentences from a story.
(1) After playing in the snow for most of the afternoon, Jonathan was shivering. (2) He
walked into the house and took off his coat and boots. (3) The fireplace looked good,
so he went closer.
Choose the most descriptive way to revise sentence 3.
A. The fireplace was making everything warm, so he went to the fire and sat down.
B. The fireplace sent a warm welcome, so he knelt down before the glowing fire.
C. The fireplace really put out some heat, so that is why he went where he did.
D. The fireplace seemed very nice to be around, so he got right next to the fire.
The student is asked to identify the most descriptive way to revise a sentence. Option A contains vague
wording—“making everything,” “went,” “sat”—and is therefore incorrect. Option B uses descriptive language
(“sent a warm welcome,” “glowing fire”) as well as a strong verb (“knelt”) and is therefore the correct answer.
Option C lacks specific descriptive detail (“really put out some heat” and “that is why he went where he did”) and
is therefore incorrect. Option D lacks specific descriptive detail (“seemed very nice to be around” and “got right
next to”) and is therefore incorrect.
*
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Section 3
Directions: On the following pages are the Argumentative, Informative/Explanatory, and Narrative
Prompts
E06.C.1.1
Writer’s Checklist for the
Argumentative Writing Prompt
PLAN before you write
• Make sure you understand what the prompt is asking you to do.
• Think about your task and your audience.
• Think about the topic and the claim you want to support for that topic.
• Organize your ideas on scratch paper. Use a thought map, outline, or other
graphic organizer to plan your essay.
FOCUS while you write
• State your claim about the topic.
• Support your claim with reasons and evidence.
• Organize your paper with an introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Use transitions to connect your ideas.
PROOFREAD after you write
I stayed focused on the topic.
I used reasons and evidence to support my claim.
I corrected any errors in capitalization, spelling, sentence formation, punctuation,
and word choice.
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Argumentative Writing Prompt
You will have at least 30 minutes to plan, write, and proofread your response to
this prompt:
Think about the time of day that is best for you or someone else to complete a
demanding task. It could be early morning, afternoon, evening, or any other
time of day. Think about what the task might be. What time of day is the best
for completing this task and why?
Write an argumentative essay for your teacher supporting your claim about
which time of day is best for completing the demanding task you have selected.
Be sure to use reasons and evidence to develop your argument.
Turn the page to begin writing your response.
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PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 119
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PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 120
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ARGUMENTATIVE WRITING PROMPT—4-POINT MODE-SPECIFIC SCORING GUIDELINE
Assessment Anchor:
E06.C.1 Text Types and Purposes
Specific Eligible Content addressed by this prompt:
E06.C.1.1—Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
Argumentative Scoring Guidelines:
Score
Point
Description
4
• Sharp, distinct claim made convincing through a thoughtful and substantiated argument
with evident awareness of task, purpose, and audience
• Effective organizational strategies and structures that logically support reasons and
evidence
• Substantial, specific, and relevant content that demonstrates a clear understanding of the
purpose
• Thorough elaboration that includes a clear position that is consistently supported with
precise and relevant evidence
• Effective transitions that connect and clarify ideas and concepts
• Established and consistently maintained formal style with effective control of language,
domain-specific vocabulary, stylistic techniques, and sentence variety
• Consistent control of sentence formation
• Few errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present do
not interfere with meaning
3
• Clear claim made convincing through a credible and substantiated argument with general
awareness of task, purpose, and audience
• Adequate organizational strategies and structures that support reasons and evidence
• Adequate and relevant content that demonstrates an understanding of the purpose
• Sufficient elaboration that includes a clear position that is supported with relevant evidence
• Appropriate transitions that connect and clarify ideas and concepts
• Established and maintained formal style with appropriate control of language,
domain-specific vocabulary, stylistic techniques, and sentence variety
• Adequate control of sentence formation
• Some errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present
seldom interfere with meaning
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Score
Point
Description
2
• Claim may lack a credible and/or substantiated argument; limited awareness of task,
purpose, and audience
• Inadequate organizational strategies and structures that ineffectively support reasons and
evidence
• Inadequate, vague content that demonstrates a weak understanding of the purpose
• Insufficient elaboration that includes an underdeveloped position supported with little
relevant evidence
• Inconsistent transitions that somewhat connect ideas and concepts
• Inconsistently maintained formal style with limited control of language, domain-specific
vocabulary, stylistic techniques, and sentence variety
• Inconsistent control of sentence formation
• Errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present may
interfere with meaning
1
• Minimal evidence of a claim that lacks a credible and/or substantiated argument with little
awareness of task, purpose, and audience
• Minimal organizational strategies and structures
• Minimal content that demonstrates little or no understanding of the purpose
• Undeveloped position with little support; may be a bare list
• Minimal transitions that may or may not connect ideas and concepts
• Ineffective formal style with little control of language
• Minimal control of sentence formation
• Many errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present
often interfere with meaning
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ARGUMENTATIVE WRITING PROMPT STUDENT RESPONSES
E06.C.1.1 Response Score: 4
Think about the time of day that is best for you or someone else to complete a
demanding task. It could be early morning, afternoon, evening, or any other
time of day. Think about what the task might be. What time of day is the best
for completing this task and why?
Write an argumentative essay for your teacher supporting your claim about
which time of day is best for completing the demanding task you have selected.
Be sure to use reasons and evidence to develop your argument.
I have just been given a very difficult assignment to complete for my history teacher.
The task is to write a 10-page paper on the causes of the Civil War. Having only two
weeks to accomplish this, I should plan my time so that I can achieve my goal.
First, I should think about what time of the day is the most productive for me and
schedule my writing sessions during those times.
Some people are more alert in the early morning hours and then fade as the day
moves on. Other people have to start slowly, gearing up for the tasks ahead just like
a runner warms up before a race. I fall into the second group, so early morning
would not be the best time for me to work on my assignment.
The evening, after dinner, is not the best time of the day for me to take on a difficult
task. I find that my brain is starting to wind down around 8:00. That may be the best
time of the day for a less mental task such as drawing a picture or listening to
music..
Another option may be to work on the project during the afternoon, right after
school. It is not always easy to do more work once I arrive home after a long school
day. However, I could schedule at least a short break before I concentrate on writing
a paper.
Considering all the times of the day, the best time for me to accomplish a difficult
task would be in the afternoon, after school. With a short break and healthy snack
after school, my mind will still be alert and able to finish projects that require a lot
offocus and organizational skills. With the right scheduling on my part, I believe I will
accomplish this project on time.
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Annotation: This response provides a distinct and convincing claim through a substantiated
argument for the best time of day to perform a difficult task (“the best time for me to accomplish a
difficult task would be in the afternoon, after school”). The organizational structure is effective with the
first paragraph posing the problem, subsequent paragraphs giving substantial possible options, and
finishing with a viable solution. Elaboration is thorough and includes a clear position with relevant
details (“only two weeks to accomplish this,” “alert in the morning hours,” “fade as the day moves on,”
“starting to wind down around 8:00”). Effective transitions connect and clarify ideas (“First,” “some,”
“other,” “another,” “after”). There is a consistently maintained formal style with domain-specific
vocabulary, stylistic techniques (“schedule a break before concentrating on”), and sentence variety. Few
errors in grammar and spelling do not interfere with meaning.
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E06.C.1.1 Response Score: 4
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Annotation: A distinct claim is effectively introduced (“If you had to choose . . . which one would you
choose?”). The writer uses an effective organizational structure by eliminating less desirable choices
through the use of counterarguments. Each reason is logically supported with substantial evidence
(“need a shower and breakfast,” “people start getting tired and lazy,” “you can see what you are doing”).
Stylistic techniques (“only one is the clear winner,” “Who doesn’t like to be out in the warm sun . . .?”) are
strong and appropriately used. There is consistent control of a variety of sentence structures, and
few errors are present in grammar, usage, spelling, or punctuation.
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E06.C.1.1 Response Score: 3
Think about the time of day that is best for you or someone else to complete a
demanding task. It could be early morning, afternoon, evening, or any other
time of day. Think about what the task might be. What time of day is the best
for completing this task and why?
Write an argumentative essay for your teacher supporting your claim about
which time of day is best for completing the demanding task you have selected.
Be sure to use reasons and evidence to develop your argument.
“RRRRRIIIIINNNNGGGG!!!!!” went the last bell of the school year. My days of
freedom were about to begin! Or so I thought. As I walked through the front door of
my home, my dad announced that I will be responsible for all of the mowing for the
season. Maybe it won’t be so bad. At least I will get paid for my hard work. I just
have to figure out what time of day to cut the grass so that I still have enough time
for the things I really want to do.
Summer mornings are usually cooler, which would make the job more pleasant.
However, my dad says that cutting grass when it is wet with dew is not good for the
grass.
Afternoons during the summer months can be really hot. It makes me start to sweat
just thinking about it. That rules out afternoons.
During the evenings it will start to cool down, but our yard is almost an acre large. It
may get dark before I can finish mowing. Cutting grass when it is dark will make it
difficult to the job the way my dad expects it to be done.
Looking at all of my options, I believe that midmorning will be the best time to
perform this difficult job. The sun will have dried the grass but won’t be high enough
in the sky to dry me out. I will have completed my responsibility and still have most
of the day left to enjoy my vacation time.
Annotation: This response makes a convincing claim through a credible argument that mid-morning
is the best time to perform a difficult task. The organizational structure adequately states the problem,
considers all options in subsequent paragraphs, and concludes with a solution. The use of times of
the day as an organizational technique works to move the essay along. The elaboration sufficiently
includes a clear position supported with evidence (“dew is not good for the grass,” “start to sweat just
thinking about it,” “Cutting grass when it is dark will make it difficult”). Appropriate transitions are used
(“after all,” “however,” “during,” “considering”). A formal writing style is maintained throughout and
domain-specific vocabulary and stylistic techniques are used. Sentence formation is adequately
controlled and the few grammar and punctuation errors do not interfere with meaning.
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THIS PAGE IS
INTENTIONALLY BLANK.
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E06.C.1.1 Response Score: 3
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Annotation: A clear claim is introduced and developed demonstrating a general awareness of
task, purpose, and audience. The writer provides adequate and relevant content (“wake up in a
good mood,” “wake up with lots of energy,” “get it out of the way”) demonstrating an understanding
of purpose. Elaboration is adequate and provides evidence supporting the claim. Basic transitions
provide an organizational structure for the response. The writer concludes with a summary
statement (“Those are the reasons why doing tasks in the morning is better than afternoon,
evening or any other time of the day.”). Adequate control of sentence formation and mechanics is
demonstrated.
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E06.C.1.1 Response Score: 2
Annotation: The response begins with a weak claim (“If I had to pick”) organized with simplistic
transitions (“First,” “Second,” “Last”). There is inadequate content demonstrating an insufficient
understanding of the task. Limited sentence variety creates a list-like essay. Errors are present in
spelling, capitalization, and punctuation (“yestrday,” “ wednesday,” “Thats”).
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E06.E.1.1 Response Score: 1
Annotation: There is evidence of a claim in the first sentence (“Afternoon is the best time to do
something cause im to tired in the morning.”) showing that the author is aware of the task, but this
response has minimal supporting content. Transitions are lacking, and the limited response shows
minimal organization. Errors in usage, capitalization, punctuation, and contractions are present
(“to,” “im,” “Thats”).
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E06.C.1.2
Writer’s Checklist for the
Informative/Explanatory Writing Prompt
PLAN before you write
• Make sure you understand what the prompt is asking you to do.
• Think about your task and your audience.
• Think about the topic and what you want to write about it.
• Organize your ideas on scratch paper. Use a thought map, outline, or other
graphic organizer to plan your essay.
FOCUS while you write
• Stay focused on the topic.
• Support your ideas with specific details and examples.
• Use a variety of sentence types.
• Organize your paper with an introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Use transitions to connect your ideas.
PROOFREAD after you write
I stayed focused on the topic.
I used specific details to support my ideas.
I corrected any errors in capitalization, spelling, sentence formation,
punctuation, and word choice.
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Informative/Explanatory Writing Prompt
You will have at least 30 minutes to plan, write, and proofread your response to
this prompt:
Think of your favorite place to spend time. It could be a place in your school, in
your community, or anywhere else. Think about what you do there and why it is
your favorite place to spend time.
Write an essay for your teacher that describes your favorite place to spend time
and explains why. Be sure to use details and examples to support your ideas.
Turn the page to begin writing your response.
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INFORMATIVE/EXPLANATORY WRITING PROMPT—4-POINT MODE-SPECIFIC SCORING
GUIDELINE
Assessment Anchor:
E06.C.1 Text Types and Purposes
Specific Eligible Content addressed by this prompt:
E06.C.1.2—Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and
information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.
Informative/Explanatory Scoring Guidelines:
Score
Point
Description
4
• Sharp, distinct topic introduced, developed, and concluded with evident awareness of task,
purpose, and audience
• Effective organizational strategies and structures that develop a topic
• Substantive, specific, and relevant content that demonstrates a clear understanding of the
purpose
• Thorough elaboration with clearly presented information that is consistently supported with
well-chosen facts, examples, and concrete details
• Effective transitions that connect and clarify ideas and concepts
• Established and consistently maintained formal style with effective control of language,
domain-specific vocabulary, stylistic techniques, and sentence variety
• Consistent control of sentence formation
• Few errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present do
not interfere with meaning
3
• Clear topic introduced, developed, and concluded with general awareness of task, purpose,
and audience
• Adequate organizational strategies and structures that develop a topic
• Adequate and relevant content that demonstrates an understanding of the purpose
• Sufficient elaboration with clearly presented information that is supported with well-chosen
facts, examples, and concrete details
• Appropriate transitions that connect and clarify ideas and concepts
• Established and maintained formal style with appropriate control of language,
domain-specific vocabulary, stylistic techniques, and sentence variety
• Adequate control of sentence formation
• Some errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present
seldom interfere with meaning
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Score
Point
Description
2
• Incomplete topic introduced, developed, and concluded with limited awareness of task,
purpose, and audience
• Inadequate organizational strategies and structures that somewhat develop a topic
• Inadequate, vague content that demonstrates a weak understanding of the purpose
• Underdeveloped and/or repetitive elaboration that is inconsistently supported with facts,
examples, and details
• Inconsistent/limited transitions that somewhat connect ideas and concepts
• Inconsistently maintained formal style with limited control of language, domain-specific
vocabulary, stylistic techniques, and sentence variety
• Inconsistent control of sentence formation
• Errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present may
interfere with meaning
1
• Minimal topic introduced, developed, and concluded with little awareness of task, purpose,
and audience
• Minimal organizational strategies and structures
• Minimal content that demonstrates little or no understanding of the purpose
• Undeveloped writing with little support; may be a bare list
• Minimal transitions that may or may not connect ideas and concepts
• Ineffective formal style with little control of language
• Minimal control of sentence formation
• Many errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present
often interfere with meaning
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INFORMATIVE/EXPLANATORY WRITING PROMPT STUDENT RESPONSES
E06.C.1.2 Response Score: 4
Think of your favorite place to spend time. It could be a place in your school, in
your community, or anywhere else. Think about what you do there and why it is
your favorite place to spend time.
Write an essay for your teacher that describes your favorite place to spend time
and explains why. Be sure to use details and examples to support your ideas.
The sun reflecting off the waves, the salty air, seagulls diving, children playing on the
sand - the seashore is my favorite place to be.
My favorite time of day is early morning, just before the sun peeks over the horizon.
The beach is deserted, except for a few shore birds chasing the waves or a lonely
crab scurrying across the wet sand. I like walking along the beach looking for
treasures dropped by the high tide.
Another very special time of day at the beach is sunset. One time on a very wide
beach along the North Carolina shore, the entire sky was ablaze with orange, yellow,
and purple, like a paint factory that had exploded across the sky. It was such
amazing color in every direction that it took my breath away for a second and I had
to make sure I was not dreaming.
Of course, a day at the shore would not be complete without watching the full moon
rise into the sky. Its reflection on the water is mesmerizing, as the moonlight ripples
in the waves..
Every now and then I would just close my eyes and inhale the smell of the ocean,
and listen to the power of the waves, crushing on the sand.
I always thought I would be happy to live on a beach all year and experience all the
different seasons. It may end up being like so many other wonders of life: if you
experience it every day, it becomes ordinary and fades into the background. I think I
prefer to think of the shore as an extraordinary place, and cherish my visits there,
even though few and far between.
Annotation: This response introduces a sharp, distinct topic (“the seashore is my favorite place”) and
is well developed. The use of organizational strategies (“My favorite time of the day is early morning,”
“Another special time is sunset,” “the full moon rise into the sky.”) and structures develop the topic
effectively. Specific and relevant content (“salty air,” “seagulls diving,” “a lonely crab scurrying,” “sky is
ablaze”) demonstrates a clear understanding of the purpose. Elaboration is thorough, and effective
transitions connect ideas and concepts. The response demonstrates consistent control of sentence
formation, language, vocabulary, and stylistic techniques.
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THIS PAGE IS
INTENTIONALLY BLANK.
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E06.C.1.2 Response Score: 4
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Annotation: A sharp, distinct topic is stated (“My favorite place to spend time is in my treehouse.”)
after an engaging introduction (“Imagine being on top of the world.”). The response is thoroughly
elaborated with substantial and relevant details (“in a big oak tree,” “pillows are soft as clouds,” “like
the top of a castle,” “ cry out like a captured princess”). Transitions connect ideas (“In another corner,”
“another reason”), and there is effective control of language, vocabulary, sentence formation and
type, and stylistic techniques.
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E06.C.1.2 Response Score: 3
Think of your favorite place to spend time. It could be a place in your school, in
your community, or anywhere else. Think about what you do there and why it is
your favorite place to spend time.
Write an essay for your teacher that describes your favorite place to spend time
and explains why. Be sure to use details and examples to support your ideas.
My favorite place on earth is my bedroom. It’s a peaceful place, where I can hide
from the world. It’s where I dream of future adventures and plan my daily activities.
Sometimes my room welcomes friends who fill the room with laughter. All of my
friends love to come over to play games or just to hang out. Sometimes we invent
stories or write silly plays, which always make us laugh.
When my room was redecorated, I got to pick out the colors. The walls are green
with pink stripes in different widths. My bedspread and curtains have light-pink
flowers with deep green leaves. It’s a bright and happy place and it cheers me up as
soon as I walk through the door. I have a nice desk, chair, and lamp (in green, of
course). My desk has lots of nooks to keep items special to me, and one of them is
my journal. I have spent many happy hours recording memorable moments or future
wishes in my special book.
I love my special room where I can retreat, feel at home, and dream of the future. It
will be my favorite place forever, or at least until it becomes too small, as I become
older.
Annotation: This response introduces and develops a clear topic (“My favorite place on earth is my
bedroom.”) with general awareness of task, purpose, and audience. The organizational structure is
adequate; the introduction gives reasons for the room being a favorite place and the succeeding
paragraphs elaborate on the reasons. Elaboration is sufficient with clearly presented information that
is supported with well-chosen facts, examples, and concrete details (“green with pink stripes,” “light-
pink flowers with deep green leaves,” “nooks to keep items special to me”). This response demonstrates
adequate control of sentence formation, language, vocabulary, and sentence variety. Few errors are
present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation.
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THIS PAGE IS
INTENTIONALLY BLANK.
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E06.C.1.2 Response Score: 3
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Annotation: A clear topic is stated (“My favorite place to spend time is the mall.”) with three ideas
(“hang out with my friends, buy new clothes, eat at the food court”) creating an organizational
structure. There is adequate, relevant content for each idea, using facts and details (“looking in
store windows,” “picked out as many clothes as they will let us take in the changing room,” “Jennie’s
mom buys us any lunch we want”). Effective transitions move the reader through the response (“To
start off,” “After we pick our stores,” “Last,” “When we finish”). There is adequate control of sentence
structure and sentence variety, and of grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation.
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E06.C.1.2 Response Score: 2
Annotation: A clear topic is introduced (“The place I like to spend time is the library.”). The response
partially develops the topic with unelaborated details (“I can rent movies for free,” “I can go on
the computer and play games,” “to check out books”). Ideas are connected with simple transitions
(“The first,” “The second,” “The third,” “To conclude”). Few errors are present in conventions; however,
inconsistent control of sentence formation is evident as the writer uses fragments (“Like Animal
Jam,” “Espesially monkeys.”)
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E06.C.1.2 Response Score: 1
Annotation: There is a topic introduced (“The park is my favorit place.”); however, there is little
awareness of task, purpose, and audience. The writer provides minimal content in this brief
response. Transitions and organizational structures are lacking. Only simple sentences are used,
and errors are present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation (“favorit,” “Thats”).
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E06.C.1.3
Writer’s Checklist for the
Narrative Writing Prompt
PLAN before you write
• Make sure you understand what the prompt is asking you to do.
• Think about your task and your audience.
• Think about the subject and the story you want to write.
• Consider story elements, such as character, setting, and plot.
• Organize your ideas on scratch paper. Use a thought map, outline, or other
graphic organizer to plan your story.
FOCUS while you write
• Stay with the same point of view.
• Use descriptive details in your story. Include dialogue, if appropriate.
• Use a variety of sentence types.
• Tell your story so it has a clear beginning, middle, and end.
PROOFREAD after you write
I stayed with the same tone and point of view.
I used descriptive details in my story.
I corrected any errors in capitalization, spelling, sentence formation,
punctuation, and word choice.
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Narrative Writing Prompt
You will have at least 30 minutes to plan, write, and proofread your response to
this prompt:
Think about what it would be like if you or a character from a book discovered a
new place. This place could be somewhere in your community, the world, or even
space. Think about what might happen before, while, and after discovering this
new place.
Write a story for your teacher about you or a character from a book discovering a
new place. Consider story elements (for example, character, setting, and plot) as
you develop your narrative.
Turn the page to begin writing your response.
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NARRATIVE WRITING PROMPT—4-POINT MODE-SPECIFIC SCORING GUIDELINE
Assessment Anchor:
E06.C.1 Text Types and Purposes
Specific Eligible Content addressed by this prompt:
E06.C.1.3—Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using eective techniques,
relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.
Narrative Scoring Guidelines:
Score
Point
Description
4
• Distinctly established context and point of view that effectively orient the reader and
introduce the narrator and/or characters
• Skillful narrative pattern/story line that clearly sequences events and provides a conclusion
• Thorough elaboration that effectively supports the writer’s purpose
• Effective use of narrative techniques to develop characters, experiences, and/or events
• Effective use of a variety of transitional words and phrases
• Precise control of literary devices, sensory language, and sentence structure that clearly
conveys experiences and events
• Consistent control of sentence formation
• Few errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present do
not interfere with meaning
3
• Clearly established context and point of view that orient the reader and introduce the
narrator and/or characters
• Adequate narrative pattern/story line that sequences events; minor interruptions to the
sequence may occur
• Adequate elaboration that supports the writer’s purpose
• Adequate use of narrative techniques to develop characters, experiences, and/or events
• Appropriate use of transitional words and/or phrases
• Appropriate control of literary devices, sensory language, and sentence structure that
conveys experiences and events
• Adequate control of sentence formation
• Some errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present
seldom interfere with meaning
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Score
Point
Description
2
• Weakly established context and point of view that inconsistently orient the reader and
introduce the narrator and/or characters
• Weak narrative pattern/story line that inconsistently sequences events; interruptions to the
sequence may detract from the story
• Weak elaboration that somewhat supports the writer’s purpose
• Inconsistent/limited use of narrative techniques
• Inconsistent/limited use of transitional words and/or phrases
• Limited control of literary devices, sensory language, and sentence structure that
inconsistently conveys experiences and/or events
• Limited control of sentence formation
• Errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present may
interfere with meaning
1
• Minimally established context and/or point of view
• Minimal narrative pattern/story line that may or may not sequence events
• Minimal elaboration that may or may not support the writer’s purpose
• Minimal use of narrative techniques
• Minimal use of transitional words and/or phrases
• Minimal control of literary devices, sensory language, and sentence structure
• Minimal control of sentence formation
• Many errors may be present in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation; errors present
often interfere with meaning
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NARRATIVE WRITING PROMPT STUDENT RESPONSES
E06.C.1.3 Response Score: 4
Think about what it would be like if you or a character from a book discovered a
new place. This place could be somewhere in your community, the world, or even
space. Think about what might happen before, while, and after discovering this
new place.
Write a story for your teacher about you or a character from a book discovering a
new place. Consider story elements (for example, character, setting, and plot) as
you develop your narrative.
My mom loves gardening. She says that digging in the dirt “feeds her soul.” Her
flower beds are filled with daisies, dahlias, and waves of petunias. I have always
avoided it as much as possible. Dirt is not an attractive nail color.
One of my favorite activities is playing games on my iPad, which irritates my mother
a lot. During one particularly hot summer week of indoor inactivity, my mother
strongly suggested that I get some fresh air by weeding her garden. Is she serious?
Discovering that she was indeed serious, threatening to lock away my iPad if I did
not comply, I knew I was in for some hard labor. I fortified my nails with heavy
garden gloves, grabbed some digging tools, and headed for the garden.
It was one of those August days, not a breeze in the air. After a few minutes on the
ground, the sweat began rolling into my eyes and down my neck. I was miserable. I
lifted up one particularly broad leaf to reach the underlying weeds, when something
suddenly darted away. “What was that?” I wondered. It was too big to be a bug. I
carefully peered under other leaves, hoping to get another glimpse of the intruder. I
could hardly believe what I observed, hiding behind a dark green plant. It was a tiny
person! I was immediately transported back to my 5-year old self who believed in
elves and fairies, a belief that I gave up years ago. I blinked and when I looked
again, there was nothing there but a few ants crawling around. I had to do one more
search around the garden bed for that little person, even though logic told me I was
silly. Just before I was about to give up, I noticed the figure waving to me at the
edge of the garden!
I decided not to share the incident with my mother. There’s no need to make her
doubt her daughter’s sanity. Won’t my mom be surprised when I volunteer to weed
in order to come back and explore this place I have newly discovered?
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Annotation: This response provides a distinctly established context (“My mom loves gardening,” “I have
always avoided it as”) that effectively orients the reader and introduces the narrator and characters.
The first-person point of view is effective and is consistently used throughout the narrative. Both
context and point of view help to orient the reader and introduce the characters. The narrative pattern
is skillful and clearly sequences the events in the story (“I fortified my nails,” “and headed for the garden,”
“something suddenly darted away,” “I could hardly believe what I observed,” “I noticed the figure waving
to me,” “I decided not to share the incident”). The response provides an appropriate conclusion (“I knew
I would not be able to stay away from this new place”). Elaboration is thorough and effectively supports
the writer’s purpose. The writer uses vivid details to support the story line (“feeds her soul,” “strongly
suggested,” “darted away,” “a few ants crawling around”). Transitions are effective, and the response
demonstrates consistent control of sentence formation. Few errors are present in grammar, usage,
spelling, and punctuation.
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 156
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E06.C.1.3 Response Score: 4
PSSA Grade 6 ELA Item and Scoring Sampler—September 2015 157
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Annotation: The response provides a distinctly established context that orients the reader. The
introduction is engaging with vivid details (“scary words,” “It was then that I knew I was alone”) as is
the rest of the response (“flashing lights in the night”). There is an effective narrative pattern that
sequences events and uses transitions effectively (“The next thing I knew,” “For the next few weeks,”
“About 3 weeks later,” “As I ran down to the shore”). Thorough elaboration effectively supports the
story line, and there is consistent control of sentence formation, sentence variety, grammar, usage,
spelling, and punctuation.
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E06.C.1.3 Response Score: 3
Think about what it would be like if you or a character from a book discovered a
new place. This place could be somewhere in your community, the world, or even
space. Think about what might happen before, while, and after discovering this
new place.
Write a story for your teacher about you or a character from a book discovering a
new place. Consider story elements (for example, character, setting, and plot) as
you develop your narrative.
It’s a beautiful Saturday morning in May. I had a perfect day all planned. I was going
to visit my friend Sarah to talk about our upcoming birthday party (our birthdays are
on the same day!) My plans vanished when my mother announced that I had to go
with her to her friend’s luncheon party. “Her niece is visiting and wouldn’t it be nice
if you got to know her?” my mom said. I was disappointed, but I had no choice in
the matter.
The house we visited was like none I had ever seen. It looked as if it would have
been more comfortable in the mountains of Colorado, not here in a Pennsylvania. It
was a large log cabin. I met Emily, who seemed just as unsure as I was about the
idea of an afternoon together. However, my mood changed when Emily said, “Would
you like to see my aunts Japanese garden?” I thought “This could be interesting”
and agreed to go with her.
Behind the house, in the middle of a wooded area, was the most magical place I
had ever seen. There was a small creek with a bridge made of stones across. Willow
branches hung to the ground in some places, making everything looking mysterious.
I discovered that Emily and I had a lot in common and we talked for hours as we
explored the garden.
This day’s experience reminded me that sometimes there are unexpected
adventures. I’ll always remember that beautiful garden and my visit with Emily.
Annotation: This response clearly establishes a first person point of view that is maintained
throughout (“I had a perfect day all planned”). The narrative pattern adequately sequences events in
the story (“My plans vanished,” “I had to go with her to her friend’s luncheon party,” “I met Emily”). There
is adequate elaboration that supports the writer’s purpose (“more comfortable in the mountains of
Colorado,” “willow branches hung to the ground”). The writer makes adequate use of descriptive words
and phrases to develop characters and setting (“wooded area,” “everything looking mysterious”).
Transitional words are used appropriately (“but,” “however”). The response demonstrates adequate
control of sentence formation. Errors in grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation are few and do not
interfere with meaning.
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THIS PAGE IS
INTENTIONALLY BLANK.
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E06.C.1.3 Response Score: 3
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Annotation: The writer clearly establishes context and point of view in the first paragraph while
introducing the reader to the narrator and setting (“I love the woods,” “my special place”). An
adequate story line is present, as is effective use of transitions (“As I walked,” “Pretty soon,” “I started
to”). Effective use of sensory language (“trees were getting thicker,” “felt like I walked for miles,” “saw
something shinny in the distance”) helps convey the experience. Elaboration is evident (“ever since
I was a little kid,” “Vans instead of my flip flops,” “pretty white and yellow flowers”) and supports the
writer’s purpose. Sentence formation and variety are adequate. The narrative concludes by cleverly
thanking the bunny and reflecting on the incident. Any errors in grammar, usage, spelling, and
punctuation are minor and do not interfere with meaning.
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E06.C.1.3 Response Score: 2
Annotation: There is a weakly established context that orients the reader and introduces the
narrator. The narrative pattern is brief, and the elaboration that supports the writer’s purpose
is weak. The prevalence of short, choppy sentences detracts from the writer’s ability to convey
experiences and events (“I saw a sign with the name Pikes Pizza on it. They were having a sale on
slices…She said mmmm sounds good.”). Rather than using sensory language, the writer creates
simple sentences to describe experiences (“It was very greasy but decissous”). There is inconsistent
use of transitional words or phrases (“when my mom,” “When I got home”). Adequate control of
sentence formation is demonstrated, and some errors are present in grammar, usage, spelling, and
punctuation.
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E06.C.1.3 Response Score: 1
Annotation: The response has a minimally established context and/or point of view (“I bruke my
leg”). The story line does sequence events but lacks elaboration. The response has minimal use
of narrative techniques and demonstrates little use of transitions or sensory language. Minimal
control of sentence formation is demonstrated, and many convention errors are present.
Copyright © 2015 by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The materials contained in this publication may be
duplicated by Pennsylvania educators for local classroom use. This permission does not extend to the duplication
of materials for commercial use.
PSSA Grade 6 English Language Arts
Item and Scoring Sampler
