2019 MCAS
Grade 8 English Language Arts
Question 8

The essay reveals moderate organization and a general central idea highlighting how the tennis shoes "were good looking and comfortable for both" Douglas and Mr. Sanderson. The writer digresses briefly to ponder whether "Douglas should have told [his dad] what he thought about the shoes so he could persuade him to let him purchase the sneakers," but overall, the selection and explanation of details are appropriate in demonstrating the significance of the shoes. Organization is fairly formulaic and repetitive, but the details chosen from the story support the overall point that "both [these] characters loved the tennis shoes." The conclusion relies to some degree on summarizing the story but implies that that the two characters "worked out a good deal" because of their relationship with each other as well as with the shoes. The essay demonstrates sufficient awareness of the task and writing mode.

The essay's length and correct demonstration of a variety of mechanics are sufficient to show consistent control of Standard English conventions for the grade level. Although there are some minor errors, such as missed capitalization in "douglas" and comma errors, sentence structures are largely varied and correct: "The shoes were also significant to Mr. Sanderson for many reasons. One reason is because when Douglas told him to try them on, he tried them on and they felt amazing on his feet."