The essay portion of the test requires students to read a brief passage in which an argument is made or a position is taken. Students are asked to analyze and explain the ideas presented in the passage, and then take a position that they support by providing reasons and examples from their own experience, observations, or reading. Because the writing assignment requires students to analyze the passage’s ideas in developing their own position on the subject, it integrates the critical reading and expository writing skills that are essential to college-level work. For example, students might first read.
