2018 MCAS
Grade 8 English Language Arts
Question 16

In the narrative, the writer develops events from Keo's point of view and maintains this perspective throughout. Keo's understanding of Sonny is expressed in strong description and internal dialogue: "I hope that he could learn to be a little more adventurous because it doesn't do him any good to be frightened of everything." Well-selected details build mood and develop character; however, this level of detail is not sustained throughout, and the narrative ends abruptly: "I felt excited, but also at the same time nervous to have my cousin leave me for the first time in a while." There are places where details from the text could have been included or further expanded upon. Overall, the writer demonstrates full awareness of the writing task and the narrative mode

Sentence forms are varied and controlled. Correctness in sentence structure, grammar, usage, and mechanics supports clear development: "Later that day, I stood at the doorway and waved goodbye before watching them head off, looking content and happy to be with each other." Description is enhanced by control of sentence structure: "They strode into the house, so I decided to follow them, interested in what they were chatting about."