Extended-Response Questions

• Typically difficult for students.

• Each wants specific things from students.

Extended-Response and Short-Answer Questions

To find these requirements, look at the scoring guide…

Patterns of a Four-Point Question

Questions contain keywords and expect an answer for each one:

Ex: Identify, describe, explain, compare, determine, list, draw, graph, give details, etc…

• Special keywords: Describe, explain and compare. Require more depth and detail. Worth two points since there is partial credit.

• When reading the question, mark all keywords. If there are fewer marked keywords than the number of points, the special keywords need extra attention.

For example, instead of a quick description, a full and detailed description is needed.

Test makers do not make all questions in the same way:

• Questions have a mix of keywords, special keywords and subjects.

• The most common combinations are:• Four Keywords• Two Special Keywords for one Subject• Two Keywords on two Subjects

Two Special Keywords for One Subject

Four Keywords

One Special Keyword for Two Subjects

For Reading, Social Studies, Science and Math.

• Read the question carefully and completely.

• Underline each keyword (action words).

• Circle each special keyword.

Extended-Response Recommendations

• Generally, students have a harder time responding to special keywords.

• Think of examples and details for each “describe, explain and compare” question.

Extended-Response Recommendations

Often the difference between a score of 2 and 4 is the lack of details or support for each of these special keywords.

Clue Word Action RequiredCompare Show both the similarities and differences.

Contrast Compare by showing differences.

CriticizeGive your judgment or reasoned opinion of something, illustrating its good and bad points. It is not necessary to attack it.

DefineGive the formal meaning by distinguishing it from related terms. This is often a matter of giving a memorized definition.

DescribeWrite a detailed account or verbal picture in a logical sequence or story form.

DiscussDescribe giving the details and explaining the pros and cons of the subject.

Explain Give reasons for.

List Produce a list of words, sentences, or comments.

8 Most Often Used Keywords

• A two-point question has two brief tasks or one detailed task

• Have the same keywords and special keywords as constructed response. It asks:

Two keywords, or tasks.

One keyword for two subjects.

One special keyword about one subject.

Short-Answer Strategies