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MCAS (MA) Grades 9 & 10 Practice – with Information Extended Response Writing
This collection features reading and writing practice aligned to the MCAS Assessment for Grades 9 & 10. Each practice assessment includes a reading selection or text set followed by questions featuring a mix of multiple choice questions and other item types as well as a Short Constructed Response prompt. The practice assessments also include an Extended Constructed Response question in the Information genre. Student-friendly answer feedback is provided for each question as well as optional AI-generated feedback. Use the assessments in this collection for formative reading and writing practice on a variety of skills aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework.
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MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 1 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 1 — Information
This assignment, based on the reading “Wheels for the Dragon,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 9 & 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (14):Analyze Literary Elements (LR), Cite Evidence from Text (LR), Determine Theme, Make Inferences (LR), Identify Main Idea and Details (LR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (LR), Determine Word Meaning (LR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9.4, RL.9.4, W.9.2.b, W.9.2.a, RL.9.1, RL.9.3, W.9.5, W.9.2.d, RL.9.2FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Literary Elements (LR)
- Cite Evidence from Text (LR)
- Determine Theme
- Make Inferences (LR)
- Identify Main Idea and Details (LR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (LR)
- Determine Word Meaning (LR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
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Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9.4
- RL.9.4
- W.9.2.b
- W.9.2.a
- RL.9.1
- RL.9.3
- W.9.5
- W.9.2.d
- RL.9.2
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MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 2 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 2 — Information
This assignment, based on the reading “Family Reunion,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 9 & 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (14):Analyze Literary Elements (LR), Determine Theme, Identify Genres (IR), Identify Genres (LR), Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR), Analyze Text Features & Structures (LR), Determine Word Meaning (LR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:RL.9.5, W.9.4, RL.9.4, RL.9.7, W.9.2.b, W.9.2.a, W.9.5, RL.9.3, W.9.2.d, RI.9.5, RL.9.2FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Literary Elements (LR)
- Determine Theme
- Identify Genres (IR)
- Identify Genres (LR)
- Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR)
- Analyze Text Features & Structures (LR)
- Determine Word Meaning (LR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
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Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- RL.9.5
- W.9.4
- RL.9.4
- RL.9.7
- W.9.2.b
- W.9.2.a
- W.9.5
- RL.9.3
- W.9.2.d
- RI.9.5
- RL.9.2
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MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 3 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 3 — Information
This assignment, based on the readings “from the Old Greek Folk Stories Told Anew: “Arachne” and “Arachne,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 9 & 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (13):Analyze Author's Craft (LR), Analyze Purpose & Point of View, Demonstrate Comprehension (LR), Make Connections (LR), Synthesize (LR), Determine Word Meaning (LR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:RL.9.5, W.9.4, RL.9.4, W.9.2.b, RL.9.9, W.9.2.a, RL.9.6, W.9.5, W.9.2.dFORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Author's Craft (LR)
- Analyze Purpose & Point of View
- Demonstrate Comprehension (LR)
- Make Connections (LR)
- Synthesize (LR)
- Determine Word Meaning (LR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
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Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- RL.9.5
- W.9.4
- RL.9.4
- W.9.2.b
- RL.9.9
- W.9.2.a
- RL.9.6
- W.9.5
- W.9.2.d
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MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 4 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 4 — Information
This assignment, based on the reading “Rigoberta Menchú,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 9 & 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (14):Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR), Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Determine/Explain Topic, Make Inferences (IR), Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR), Determine Word Meaning (IR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9.4, W.9.2.b, W.9.2.a, RI.9.2, W.9.5, W.9.2.d, RI.9.3, RI.9.1, RI.9.4FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
- Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
- Determine/Explain Topic
- Make Inferences (IR)
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
- Determine Word Meaning (IR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
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Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9.4
- W.9.2.b
- W.9.2.a
- RI.9.2
- W.9.5
- W.9.2.d
- RI.9.3
- RI.9.1
- RI.9.4
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MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 5 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 5 — Information
This assignment, based on the reading “Looking for Superheroes,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 9 & 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (12):Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR), Analyze Author's Craft (IR), Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective, Determine/Explain Topic, Determine Word Meaning (IR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9.4, W.9.2.b, RI.9.2, W.9.2.a, W.9.5, W.9.2.d, RI.9.3, RI.9.4, RI.9.6FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
- Analyze Author's Craft (IR)
- Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective
- Determine/Explain Topic
- Determine Word Meaning (IR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
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Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9.4
- W.9.2.b
- RI.9.2
- W.9.2.a
- W.9.5
- W.9.2.d
- RI.9.3
- RI.9.4
- RI.9.6
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MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 6 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 6 — Information
This assignment, based on the readings “The American Promise” from President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Special Message to Congress and “All Together Now,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 9 & 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (14):Analyze Author's Craft (IR), Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective, Identify Genres (IR), Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR), Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR), Determine Word Meaning (IR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9.4, W.9.2.b, RI.9.7, W.9.2.a, W.9.5, W.9.2.d, RI.9.5, RI.9.6, RI.9.4FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Author's Craft (IR)
- Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective
- Identify Genres (IR)
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
- Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR)
- Determine Word Meaning (IR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
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Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9.4
- W.9.2.b
- RI.9.7
- W.9.2.a
- W.9.5
- W.9.2.d
- RI.9.5
- RI.9.6
- RI.9.4
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MCAS (MA) Grades 9 & 10 Practice – with Narrative Extended Response Writing
This collection features reading and writing practice aligned to the MCAS Assessment for Grades 9 & 10. Each practice assessment includes a reading selection or text set followed by questions featuring a mix of multiple choice questions and other item types as well as a Short Constructed Response prompt. The practice assessments also include an Extended Constructed Response question in the Narrative genre. Student-friendly answer feedback is provided for each question as well as optional AI-generated feedback. Use the assessments in this collection for formative reading and writing practice on a variety of skills aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework.
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MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 1 — Narrative
MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 1 — Narrative
This assignment, based on the reading “Wheels for the Dragon,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 9 & 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (16):Analyze Literary Elements (LR), Cite Evidence from Text (LR), Determine Theme, Make Inferences (LR), Identify Main Idea and Details (LR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (LR), Determine Word Meaning (LR), Demonstrate Understanding, Vary Sentence Structure, Organize, Develop a Narrative, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Introduce the Story, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9.3.d, W.9.3.b, W.9.4, RL.9.4, RL.9.3, W.9.5, RL.9.1, W.9.9, W.9.3.a, RL.9.2FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Literary Elements (LR)
- Cite Evidence from Text (LR)
- Determine Theme
- Make Inferences (LR)
- Identify Main Idea and Details (LR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (LR)
- Determine Word Meaning (LR)
- Demonstrate Understanding
- Organize
- Develop a Narrative
- Write to Task & Purpose
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Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Introduce the Story
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9.3.d
- W.9.3.b
- W.9.4
- RL.9.4
- RL.9.3
- W.9.5
- RL.9.1
- W.9.9
- W.9.3.a
- RL.9.2
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MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 2 — Narrative
MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 2 — Narrative
This assignment, based on the reading, “Family Reunion,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 9 & 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (16):Analyze Literary Elements (LR), Determine Theme, Identify Genres (IR), Identify Genres (LR), Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR), Analyze Text Features & Structures (LR), Determine Word Meaning (LR), Demonstrate Understanding, Vary Sentence Structure, Organize, Develop a Narrative, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Introduce the Story, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9.3.d, RL.9.5, W.9.3.b, W.9.4, RL.9.7, RL.9.4, W.9.5, RL.9.3, W.9.9, RI.9.5, W.9.3.a, RL.9.2FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Literary Elements (LR)
- Determine Theme
- Identify Genres (IR)
- Identify Genres (LR)
- Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR)
- Analyze Text Features & Structures (LR)
- Determine Word Meaning (LR)
- Demonstrate Understanding
- Organize
- Develop a Narrative
- Write to Task & Purpose
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Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Introduce the Story
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9.3.d
- RL.9.5
- W.9.3.b
- W.9.4
- RL.9.7
- RL.9.4
- W.9.5
- RL.9.3
- W.9.9
- RI.9.5
- W.9.3.a
- RL.9.2
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MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 3 — Narrative
MCAS Practice: Grades 9 & 10 Assignment 3 — Narrative
This assignment, based on the reading “Rigoberta Menchú,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 9 & 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (16):Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR), Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Determine/Explain Topic, Make Inferences (IR), Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR), Determine Word Meaning (IR), Demonstrate Understanding, Vary Sentence Structure, Organize, Develop a Narrative, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Introduce the Story, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9.3.d, W.9.3.b, W.9.4, RI.9.2, W.9.5, W.9.9, W.9.3.a, RI.9.3, RI.9.1, RI.9.4FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Argument / Informational Text (IR)
- Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
- Determine/Explain Topic
- Make Inferences (IR)
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
- Determine Word Meaning (IR)
- Demonstrate Understanding
- Organize
- Develop a Narrative
- Write to Task & Purpose
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Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Introduce the Story
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9.3.d
- W.9.3.b
- W.9.4
- RI.9.2
- W.9.5
- W.9.9
- W.9.3.a
- RI.9.3
- RI.9.1
- RI.9.4
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MCAS (Massachusetts) Grade 9 Practice - Extended Response Text Sets
This Massachusetts Text Set Collection features writing practice aligned to the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System for Grade 9. Each practice assessment includes Text Sets followed by an Extended Constructed Response question in the Information genre. Student-friendly feedback is included and teachers can also choose to use AI-assisted feedback for Extended Response questions. Use the assessments in this collection for formative practice aligned to Massachusetts MCAS standards.
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MCAS Practice: Grade 9 Assignment 1 — Information (Text Set)
MCAS Practice: Grade 9 Assignment 1 — Information (Text Set)
This assignment, based on the four-article text set, Women's Right to Vote, and including the readings, “Women's Right to Vote,” "Deeds not Words," "Journey for Justice," and "Front page of Woman’s Journal and Suffrage News, March 8, 1913" allows students to practice responding to a writing prompt similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts MCAS English Language Arts standards for Grade 9.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (7):Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Develop a Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9.4, W.9.2.b, W.9.2.a, W.9.5, W.9.2.dFORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Develop a Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9.4
- W.9.2.b
- W.9.2.a
- W.9.5
- W.9.2.d
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MCAS Practice: Grade 9 Assignment 2 — Information (Text Set)
MCAS Practice: Grade 9 Assignment 2 — Information (Text Set)
This assignment, based on the four-article text set, Exotic Pets, and including the readings, “Do You Really Want a Baby Tiger?” "Go Figure! Owning Exotic Pets," "No Good Arguments For The Exotic Pet Trade – Just Good Marketing," and "Not a Pet" allows students to practice responding to a writing prompt similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts MCAS English Language Arts standards for Grade 9.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (7):Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Develop a Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.9.4, W.9.2.b, W.9.2.a, W.9.5, W.9.2.dFORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Develop a Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.9.4
- W.9.2.b
- W.9.2.a
- W.9.5
- W.9.2.d
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MCAS (Massachusetts) Grade 10 Practice - Extended Response Text Sets
This Massachusetts Text Set Collection features writing practice aligned to the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System for Grade 10. Each practice assessment includes Text Sets followed by an Extended Constructed Response question in the Information genre. Student-friendly feedback is included and teachers can also choose to use AI-assisted feedback for Extended Response questions. Use the assessments in this collection for formative practice aligned to Massachusetts MCAS standards.
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MCAS Practice: Grade 10 Assignment 1 — Information (Text Set)
MCAS Practice: Grade 10 Assignment 1 — Information (Text Set)
This assignment, based on the four-article text set, Anexation of Hawaii, and including the readings, “The Annexation of Hawaii: A Right and a Duty,” "Why Hawaii Should Not Be Annexed," "Hawaii's Last Queen," and "The Annexation of Hawaii " allows students to practice responding to a writing prompt similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts MCAS English Language Arts standards for Grade 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (7):Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Develop a Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.10.4, W.10.2.b, W.10.2.a, W.10.2.d, W.10.5FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Develop a Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.10.4
- W.10.2.b
- W.10.2.a
- W.10.2.d
- W.10.5
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MCAS Practice: Grade 10 Assignment 2 — Information (Text Set)
MCAS Practice: Grade 10 Assignment 2 — Information (Text Set)
This assignment, based on the four-article text set, Protecting Marine Animals, and including the readings, “A Ride of a Lifetime: Cruising with a Giant Manta Ray,” "The Monk Seal: Nature’s Recluse," "Billions of Pieces of Plastic Spread Disease in Coral Reefs," and "Blues in the Bay" allows students to practice responding to a writing prompt similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts MCAS English Language Arts standards for Grade 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (7):Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Develop a Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.10.4, W.10.2.b, W.10.2.a, W.10.2.d, W.10.5FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Develop a Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.10.4
- W.10.2.b
- W.10.2.a
- W.10.2.d
- W.10.5
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MCAS Practice: Grade 10 – Full Assessment (Text Set)
MCAS Practice: Grade 10 – Full Assessment (Text Set)
This assignment, based on the readings “America the Beautiful: Congressional Hearing on National Parks,” “FDR Radio Address at Two Medicine,” "How Valuable are National Parks? Evidence from a Proposed National Park Expansion in Alaska," and "Should We Allow Development in National Parks?" allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Students respond to reading comprehension questions (Part 1); and write an Argument in response to an extended response prompt (Part 2). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts MCAS Standards for High School.
Duration: 1-2 Class Sessions
SKILLS (12):Analyze Author's Craft (IR), Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective, Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR), Determine Word Meaning (IR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Develop a Topic, Write to Task & Purpose, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.10.4, W.10.2.b, W.10.2.a, W.10.2.d, W.10.5, RI.10.4, RI.10.6, RI.10.7FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Author's Craft (IR)
- Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
- Determine Word Meaning (IR)
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Develop a Topic
- Write to Task & Purpose
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.10.4
- W.10.2.b
- W.10.2.a
- W.10.2.d
- W.10.5
- RI.10.4
- RI.10.6
- RI.10.7
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MCAS (MA) Grades 11 & 12 Practice – with Information Extended Response Writing
This collection features reading and writing practice aligned to the MCAS Assessment for Grades 11 & 12. Each practice assessment includes a reading selection or text set followed by questions featuring a mix of multiple choice questions and other item types as well as a Short Constructed Response prompt. The practice assessments also include an Extended Constructed Response question in the Information genre. Student-friendly answer feedback is provided for each question as well as optional AI-generated feedback. Use the assessments in this collection for formative reading and writing practice on a variety of skills aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework.
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MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 1 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 1 — Information
This assignment, based on the reading “False Start,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 11 & 12.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (12):Analyze Literary Elements (LR), Cite Evidence from Text (LR), Determine Theme, Make Inferences (LR), Determine Word Meaning (LR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.11.4, W.11.2.a, RL.11.3, RL.11.4, RL.11.2, W.11.5, W.11.2.d, W.11.2.b, RL.11.1FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Literary Elements (LR)
- Cite Evidence from Text (LR)
- Determine Theme
- Make Inferences (LR)
- Determine Word Meaning (LR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
-
Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.11.4
- W.11.2.a
- RL.11.3
- RL.11.4
- RL.11.2
- W.11.5
- W.11.2.d
- W.11.2.b
- RL.11.1
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MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 2 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 2 — Information
This assignment, based on the reading “The Last Lesson,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 9 & 10.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (12):Analyze Author's Craft (LR), Analyze Purpose & Point of View, Identify Genres (LR), Analyze Text Features & Structures (LR), Determine Word Meaning (LR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:RL.11.6, RL.11.5, W.11.4, W.11.2.a, RL.11.4, RL.11.7, W.11.5, W.11.2.d, W.11.2.bFORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Author's Craft (LR)
- Analyze Purpose & Point of View
- Identify Genres (LR)
- Analyze Text Features & Structures (LR)
- Determine Word Meaning (LR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
-
Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- RL.11.6
- RL.11.5
- W.11.4
- W.11.2.a
- RL.11.4
- RL.11.7
- W.11.5
- W.11.2.d
- W.11.2.b
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MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 3 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 3 — Information
This assignment, based on the reading “Life in the Treetops,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 11 & 12.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (10):Analyze Author's Craft (IR), Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective, Determine Word Meaning (IR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.11.4, W.11.2.a, RI.11.6, RI.11.4, W.11.5, W.11.2.d, W.11.2.bFORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Author's Craft (IR)
- Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective
- Determine Word Meaning (IR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
-
Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.11.4
- W.11.2.a
- RI.11.6
- RI.11.4
- W.11.5
- W.11.2.d
- W.11.2.b
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MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 4 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 4 — Information
This assignment, based on the reading “Searching for King Arthur,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 11 & 12.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (13):Cite Evidence from Text (IR), Identify Genres (IR), Identify Main Idea and Details (IR), Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR), Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR), Determine Word Meaning (IR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.11.4, W.11.2.a, RI.11.1, RI.11.4, W.11.5, W.11.2.d, RI.11.2, W.11.2.b, RI.11.5FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Cite Evidence from Text (IR)
- Identify Genres (IR)
- Identify Main Idea and Details (IR)
- Summarize/Paraphrase Text (IR)
- Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR)
- Determine Word Meaning (IR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
-
Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.11.4
- W.11.2.a
- RI.11.1
- RI.11.4
- W.11.5
- W.11.2.d
- RI.11.2
- W.11.2.b
- RI.11.5
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MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 5 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 5 — Information
This assignment, based on the reading “Silk Connects the World,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 11 & 12.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (12):Analyze Author's Craft (IR), Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective, Identify Genres (IR), Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR), Determine Word Meaning (IR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.11.4, W.11.2.a, RI.11.6, RI.11.4, W.11.5, W.11.2.d, W.11.2.b, RI.11.5FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Author's Craft (IR)
- Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective
- Identify Genres (IR)
- Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR)
- Determine Word Meaning (IR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
-
Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.11.4
- W.11.2.a
- RI.11.6
- RI.11.4
- W.11.5
- W.11.2.d
- W.11.2.b
- RI.11.5
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MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 6 — Information
MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 6 — Information
This assignment, based on the readings “America the Beautiful: Congressional Hearing on National Parks” and “FDR Radio Address at Two Medicine,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 11 & 12.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (12):Analyze Author's Craft (IR), Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective, Make Connections (IR), Synthesize (IR), Determine Word Meaning (IR), Vary Sentence Structure, Establish a Main Idea, Organize, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:RI.11.7, W.11.4, W.11.2.a, RI.11.6, RI.11.4, W.11.5, W.11.2.d, W.11.2.bFORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Author's Craft (IR)
- Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective
- Make Connections (IR)
- Synthesize (IR)
- Determine Word Meaning (IR)
- Establish a Main Idea
- Organize
- Write to Task & Purpose
-
Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- RI.11.7
- W.11.4
- W.11.2.a
- RI.11.6
- RI.11.4
- W.11.5
- W.11.2.d
- W.11.2.b
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MCAS (MA) Grades 11 & 12 Practice – with Narrative Extended Response Writing
This collection features reading and writing practice aligned to the MCAS Assessment for Grades 11 & 12. Each practice assessment includes a reading selection or text set followed by questions featuring a mix of multiple choice questions and other item types as well as a Short Constructed Response prompt. The practice assessments also include an Extended Constructed Response question in the Narrative genre. Student-friendly answer feedback is provided for each question as well as optional AI-generated feedback. Use the assessments in this collection for formative reading and writing practice on a variety of skills aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework.
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MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 1 — Narrative
MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 1 — Narrative
This assignment, based on the reading “False Start,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 11 & 12.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (14):Analyze Literary Elements (LR), Cite Evidence from Text (LR), Determine Theme, Make Inferences (LR), Determine Word Meaning (LR), Demonstrate Understanding, Vary Sentence Structure, Organize, Develop a Narrative, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Introduce the Story, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.11.3.d, W.11.4, W.11.3.a, W.11.3.b, RL.11.3, RL.11.4, RL.11.2, W.11.5, W.11.9, RL.11.1FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Literary Elements (LR)
- Cite Evidence from Text (LR)
- Determine Theme
- Make Inferences (LR)
- Determine Word Meaning (LR)
- Demonstrate Understanding
- Organize
- Develop a Narrative
- Write to Task & Purpose
-
Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Introduce the Story
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.11.3.d
- W.11.4
- W.11.3.a
- W.11.3.b
- RL.11.3
- RL.11.4
- RL.11.2
- W.11.5
- W.11.9
- RL.11.1
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MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 2 — Narrative
MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 2 — Narrative
This assignment, based on the reading “Silk Connects the World,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 11 & 12.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (14):Analyze Author's Craft (IR), Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective, Identify Genres (IR), Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR), Determine Word Meaning (IR), Demonstrate Understanding, Vary Sentence Structure, Organize, Develop a Narrative, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Introduce the Story, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:W.11.3.d, W.11.4, W.11.3.a, W.11.3.b, RI.11.6, RI.11.4, W.11.5, RI.11.5, W.11.9FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Author's Craft (IR)
- Analyze Author's Purpose & Perspective
- Identify Genres (IR)
- Analyze Text Features & Structures (IR)
- Determine Word Meaning (IR)
- Demonstrate Understanding
- Organize
- Develop a Narrative
- Write to Task & Purpose
-
Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Introduce the Story
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- W.11.3.d
- W.11.4
- W.11.3.a
- W.11.3.b
- RI.11.6
- RI.11.4
- W.11.5
- RI.11.5
- W.11.9
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MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 3 — Narrative
MCAS Practice: Grades 11 & 12 Assignment 3 — Narrative
This assignment, based on the reading, “The Last Lesson,” allows students to practice responding to reading comprehension questions and writing prompts similar to those on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Questions are aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework for Grades 11 & 12.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
SKILLS (14):Analyze Author's Craft (LR), Analyze Purpose & Point of View, Identify Genres (LR), Analyze Text Features & Structures (LR), Determine Word Meaning (LR), Demonstrate Understanding, Vary Sentence Structure, Organize, Develop a Narrative, Write to Task & Purpose, Consider Language and Word Choice, Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation, Introduce the Story, Support with Reasons & EvidenceSTANDARDS:RL.11.6, W.11.3.d, RL.11.5, W.11.4, W.11.3.a, W.11.3.b, RL.11.4, RL.11.7, W.11.5, W.11.9FORMAT:AssessmentSkills in this Assignment
- Analyze Author's Craft (LR)
- Analyze Purpose & Point of View
- Identify Genres (LR)
- Analyze Text Features & Structures (LR)
- Determine Word Meaning (LR)
- Demonstrate Understanding
- Organize
- Develop a Narrative
- Write to Task & Purpose
-
Consider Language and Word Choice
- Vary Sentence Structure
- Use Correct Grammar/Spelling/Punctuation
- Introduce the Story
- Support with Reasons & Evidence
Standards in this Assignment
- RL.11.6
- W.11.3.d
- RL.11.5
- W.11.4
- W.11.3.a
- W.11.3.b
- RL.11.4
- RL.11.7
- W.11.5
- W.11.9
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MCAS (MA) Grades 9 & 10 Practice – with Information Extended Response Writing
This collection features reading and writing practice aligned to the MCAS Assessment for Grades 9 & 10. Each practice assessment includes a reading selection or text set followed by questions featuring a mix of multiple choice questions and other item types as well as a Short Constructed Response prompt. The practice assessments also include an Extended Constructed Response question in the Information genre. Student-friendly answer feedback is provided for each question as well as optional AI-generated feedback. Use the assessments in this collection for formative reading and writing practice on a variety of skills aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework.
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MCAS (MA) Grades 9 & 10 Practice – with Narrative Extended Response Writing
This collection features reading and writing practice aligned to the MCAS Assessment for Grades 9 & 10. Each practice assessment includes a reading selection or text set followed by questions featuring a mix of multiple choice questions and other item types as well as a Short Constructed Response prompt. The practice assessments also include an Extended Constructed Response question in the Narrative genre. Student-friendly answer feedback is provided for each question as well as optional AI-generated feedback. Use the assessments in this collection for formative reading and writing practice on a variety of skills aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework.
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MCAS (Massachusetts) Grade 9 Practice - Extended Response Text Sets
This Massachusetts Text Set Collection features writing practice aligned to the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System for Grade 9. Each practice assessment includes Text Sets followed by an Extended Constructed Response question in the Information genre. Student-friendly feedback is included and teachers can also choose to use AI-assisted feedback for Extended Response questions. Use the assessments in this collection for formative practice aligned to Massachusetts MCAS standards.
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MCAS (Massachusetts) Grade 10 Practice - Extended Response Text Sets
This Massachusetts Text Set Collection features writing practice aligned to the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System for Grade 10. Each practice assessment includes Text Sets followed by an Extended Constructed Response question in the Information genre. Student-friendly feedback is included and teachers can also choose to use AI-assisted feedback for Extended Response questions. Use the assessments in this collection for formative practice aligned to Massachusetts MCAS standards.
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MCAS (MA) Grades 11 & 12 Practice – with Information Extended Response Writing
This collection features reading and writing practice aligned to the MCAS Assessment for Grades 11 & 12. Each practice assessment includes a reading selection or text set followed by questions featuring a mix of multiple choice questions and other item types as well as a Short Constructed Response prompt. The practice assessments also include an Extended Constructed Response question in the Information genre. Student-friendly answer feedback is provided for each question as well as optional AI-generated feedback. Use the assessments in this collection for formative reading and writing practice on a variety of skills aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework.
-
MCAS (MA) Grades 11 & 12 Practice – with Narrative Extended Response Writing
This collection features reading and writing practice aligned to the MCAS Assessment for Grades 11 & 12. Each practice assessment includes a reading selection or text set followed by questions featuring a mix of multiple choice questions and other item types as well as a Short Constructed Response prompt. The practice assessments also include an Extended Constructed Response question in the Narrative genre. Student-friendly answer feedback is provided for each question as well as optional AI-generated feedback. Use the assessments in this collection for formative reading and writing practice on a variety of skills aligned to the Massachusetts English Language Arts & Literacy Framework.