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Table of Contents

[2007 NYS ELA Info] [Book 1: Reading & Multiple Choice]  [Book 2: Listening & Writing]  [Book 3: Reading & Writing] [Multiple Choice]  [Listening & Note-taking] [Short Answer Response: SAR]  [Extended Response]  [Test Taking Tips]  [Parent Resources]  [Student Activities] [Teacher Resources]

Overview

The New York State English Language Arts test is given in January to all students in grades 3-8.  The test is used to assess student development in reading, writing, and listening.  The test is taken over a three day period.   It is a tool used to measure students' English Language Arts skills.  Every student in grade 6 must take this test;  It is required by the New York State Education Department.  The good news is that the best way to prepare for a test of this type is to read, read, and read some more.  There is a list of online reading materials for you at the bottom of this web page.

 

 

2007 NYS English Language Arts Test Information

In the event that you misplaced your parent letter (click here), I have provided another copy for you to print off.  The NYS Education Department has provided sample tests that you are welcome to review and use as a study guide with your child.  The dates and times of the test are provided below:

Date

Time

Task

Tuesday, January 16

Periods 1-2 (55 min.)

Book 1: Reading & Multiple Choice

Wednesday, January 17

Periods 7-8 (45 min.)

Book 2: Listening and Writing

Thursday, January 18

Periods 1-2 (60 min.)

Book 3: Reading and Writing

The dates of the review classes are listed below:

  • Thursday, January 4

  • Tuesday, January 9

  • Thursday, January 11

Supplies your child will need:

  • 2-3 #2 pencils

  • highlighters

Tips that research proves is highly beneficial to academic success:

  • Eat a high protein breakfast

  • Get plenty of rest

 

 

Book 1: Reading and Multiple choice (55')

In book one, you will read different types of text passages:  fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.  In this part of the test, you can read the questions before reading the passages.  It is a good idea to do that.  After reading each passage, you will go back and answer the multiple choice questions.  Apply your SQ4R and QARs skills and you will be successful. 

 

Book 2: Listening & Writing (45')

In book two, you will listen to a passage.  The teacher will read the passage two times.  You will not be able to read the questions ahead of time.  However, you can take notes to help you respond to the questions.  You will write 3 short answer responses (one is usually a graphic organizer) and 1 extended response.  Usually, the details in the short answer response are very helpful in writing the extended response.  You will be successful if you select specific details from the listening passage to answer the questions. 

 

Book 3: Reading and Writing (60')

In book three, you will read two passages.  You will be able to read all the questions before reading, which will help you to pick out the key ideas.  After, you will answer 3 short answer responses (one is usually a graphic organizer) and an extended response.  Usually, the details in the short answer response are very helpful in writing the extended response.  You will be successful if you select specific details from the listening passage to answer the questions.

 

 

Multiple Choice (SQ4R)

  • Survey: Survey the text before reading

  • Questions: Read your questions before reading & use your QARs skills.  Identify what type of question you are answering: Right There, Here and There, Author & You, or HOT-On Your Own

  • Read: Read the text and underline key words or ideas you remember from the questions

  • Reread: Reread the questions and see if you can answer any of the questions before reading the choices.  If you answer is one of the choices, select it.

  • Reread: Reread the text, if you are not 100% sure of your answer.   Skim the text for key words in the question to find and confirm your answer.

  • Respond:  Answer the question using details or clues from the text.

 

Listening Passage Note-Taking

  • Identify the genre: folktale, biography, fiction, etc.

  • Decide on an organization pattern that best fits the passage: chronological order, compare and contrast, sequence of events, cause and effect, plot summary, etc.

  • You can listen to the passage the first time without taking notes. The second time it is read you can take notes.  You have the option of taking notes during both readings if you choose.  You must take notes during during the last reading. 

  • Use your favorite note-taking method: hotdog, hamburg, webbing, plot diagram.

  • Note-taking strategies: Hotdog, Character Organizer, Plot Diagram

 

Short Answer Responses (1-2 paragraphs)

  • Identify ALL the tasks in the question and circle them.

  • ECHO the question. 

  • Use specific details (at least 2-3) in your short answer. 

  • Reread the question to be sure you responded to all the tasks in the question.  If you need to insert information, you can use a * and add it to your answer.

  • Reread and edit your answer.  You must write in complete sentences.

 

Extended Answer Responses (4 paragraphs)

  • Identify ALL the tasks in the question and circle them.

  • Determine how you are going to organize your paragraphs: (compare & contrast, cause & effect, chronological, benefits & disadvantages, etc.)

  • Create a graphic organizer that best helps you to answer the question. 

  • Select details from the passage(s) that support the main idea of each body paragraph.  NOTE: Book 3 requires that you use details from 2 PASSAGES. Often details from the short answer responses are useful in supporting your ideas in the extended response. 

  • ECHO the question and make a statement that responds to the question.

  • Write your response.  Use specific details (at least 2 from each passage). 

  • Reread the question to be sure you responded to all the tasks in the question. 

  • Reread and edit your answer. If you need to insert information, you can use a * and add it to your answer.  You must write in complete sentences.

Test Taking Tips

  • Watch your time and pace yourself.

  • Read the directions carefully and circle all the tasks.

  • Read or listen to passages carefully

  • Unless you are 100% sure a multiple-choice answer is wrong, do NOT change it.

  • Use specific details to support your writing.

  • When you are done, go back and make sure you answered all the questions.

  • VERY IMPORTANT: Go to bed early, so your brain doesn't shut down. 

  • Eat a high-protein breakfast.

  • Relax.  You know everything you need to be successful.

  • If you feel yourself experiencing test anxiety, take a deep breath and remind yourself to relax because you have done this before.

 

Student Activities

All ELA Skills

 

Listening

 

Multiple Choice

 

Poetry

 

Writing: Grammar, Conventions

 

Parent Resources

 

 

Teacher Internet Resources

 

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Last Updated: January 02, 2007

If you have any question or concerns, please feel free to contact me:

mblow@lacs.moric.org