The new month starts this weekend and brings the Writing SOL test closer along with it. All students who are currently taking English 11 or AP English Language and Composition are required to take this exam and get passing scores in order to graduate. The SOL assess all the skills that were learned between 9th and 11th grade like grammar, the writing process, tone, and clarity. Last year, the state is introduced a new integrated format, making it easier for students. The new format meant that the test was taken in three different parts instead of two. This year, however, the third portion was canceled, meaning the test is only two parts. The first part, the writing portion, will take place on March 6th and 7th, and students will be asked to read a prompt and write an essay in response within the allotted time. AP English Language and Composition teacher Brandie DeRusha is helping her students prepare by doing test practices along with review for the AP exam. She believes that preparing for the AP exam can also help her students feel ready for the SOLs because the AP exams are much more demanding. Currently, her students are developing their test taking skills by writing quick-write essays and taking practice reading multiple choice tests.
“Don’t stress about it,” DeRusha said. “Read the prompt thoroughly, and trust your gut instincts.”
