2018 MCAS
Grade 8 English Language Arts
Question 8

Though the response includes relevant details to describe each figure, there is little development of a central idea. Douglass and Lincoln are presented as "very effective leaders," but there is limited selection and explanation of details to support this idea. Douglass is described as "so determined to fight for his people that he met with the president himself to discuss his matters," and Lincoln is characterized as "willing to listen to his citizens." Organization is limited in this relatively brief response, and the expression of ideas is basic. The writer shows only partial awareness of the writing task.

The writing shows mostly consistent control of Standard English conventions. The length and complexity of the text are insufficient to demonstrate consistent control. Awkwardness tends to stand out in simple text, and errors in spelling and punctuation are evident: "He was after all, the president and commander in cheif of the United States."