Directions
You will have 5 minutes to plan and 10 minutes to write each response. Make sure your response is clear, organized, and includes examples.
Task 1: Opinion / Independent Writing
Prompt:
Do you agree or disagree: Schools should require students to take art and music classes. Use details and examples to support your answer.
Sample Response:
I strongly agree that schools should require students to take art and music classes. These subjects help students develop creativity and critical thinking, which are essential skills for problem-solving in any field. For example, learning music improves concentration and discipline, while art encourages imagination and visual thinking. Additionally, exposure to arts enhances cultural understanding and emotional intelligence. Even students focused on science or math can benefit from arts classes because they develop skills such as patience, observation, and innovation. Without these classes, students may miss the opportunity to grow as well-rounded individuals. Therefore, art and music should be a required part of every student’s education.
Task 2: Integrated Writing – Reading & Listening
Reading Excerpt:
“Many cities plan to build bike lanes to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. Cycling is an inexpensive, environmentally friendly mode of transportation.”
Listening Excerpt:
Instructor: “Some residents worry about safety on bike lanes and the cost of construction. They also mention that not everyone can use a bike, such as elderly people or those with disabilities.”
Prompt:
Summarize how the listening passage challenges or supports the reading passage.
Sample Response:
The reading passage argues that bike lanes reduce traffic and pollution and provide an affordable transportation option. The listening passage challenges this idea by highlighting safety concerns and accessibility issues. Some residents worry that bike lanes may not be safe and that building them is expensive. Others point out that not all people, like the elderly or disabled, can use bikes. Together, these passages show that while bike lanes have environmental and cost benefits, city planners must address safety and inclusivity to make them effective.
Task 3: Opinion / Independent Writing
Prompt:
Do you think technology has improved communication between people? Explain your answer.
Sample Response:
I believe technology has greatly improved communication. With smartphones, video calls, and instant messaging, people can stay in touch across long distances. For example, families living in different countries can have face-to-face conversations daily. Technology also allows collaboration in education and business, enabling students and employees to share ideas and work together efficiently. However, some argue that technology reduces face-to-face interaction and may weaken personal relationships. Despite these concerns, the overall benefits of faster, more accessible communication outweigh the drawbacks. Technology has made it easier than ever to connect with others.