In this essay I will be talking about why the ELA state exam is given and what test prep means to me.

        We have learned many strategies and skills while doing test prep. One skill that we learned was main idea. Main idea is the most important or central thought of a paragraph or larger section of text,  tells the reader what the text is about. An example of a main idea: Summer is a wonderful time to spend at West Beach. It is a beach with light- colored, soft sand. The coastline goes on for a long way and many people enjoy walking along it. Children like to play in the surf and walk along the rocks that are visible at low tide. This is a fun beach for people of all ages. The Main Idea is that summer is a wonderful time at West Beach. Another skill that we learned was making an inference. An inference is an educated guess which should always be based on information and evidence in a passage. An example of an inference:  When you see that the sky is gray, you can infer that it is likely to rain. One strategy that we learned was how to make a short response. To make a short response you must first make an introduction statement and then you provide details and supporting details with it. Lastly you make a concluding statement. An example of a short response would be: Why do people exercise? People exercise because it is good and healthy for them. One reason would be it builds muscles in your body. Another reason is there is a lower chance of diseases to come to you. Last reason is exercise boosts your energy and controls your weight. This is why exercising is good for you. Another strategy that we learned was the process of elimination. For the process of elimination you first eliminate two multiple choice questions out of the four that are useless and then you choose one out of the two that is the best.

        Before test prep in readiness I felt like I still need more practice for the ELA state exam to get a level 4. On the acuity test we took I got 5 wrong on the multiple choice questions and that means a high 3. I still was aiming for a level 4. Now after test prep and readiness I feel much stronger and that I will get a good grade on the ELA state exam. We went over all the strategies and skills needed for the ELA state exam. Before test prep I wasn’t that ready and know after test prep I feel ready to take the ELA state exam.

        In Conclusion I talked about why the ELA state exam is given and what test prep means to me. Also I gave 2 strategies and 2 skills that I learned that will help me do better in the ELA state exam this year. And also I included how I feel before test prep in readiness and how do I feel know. So next time always makes sure you do test prep or practice for the ELA state exam!