Information about

In-Class Essays and In-Class Essay Exams

1.) "Timed Writing"

• These "exams" are used to assess a writer's "fluency"

• The topic is usually not known ahead of time

• A "full-length" essay -- introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion -- is usually expected or required

• You need to do the best you can do in one shot

• You should still use the writing "process" -- for example:

  • 10 minutes = read the writing prompt and plan your essay

  • 30 minutes = write your essay

  • 10 minutes = reread, revise, edit, and proofread your essay

2.) Exams

• These are used to assess your knowledge / understanding / comprehension of the course material

• Additionally, you might also be asked to demonstrate your ability to:

  • respond to the material

  • apply the material

  • analyze the material

  • synthesize different parts of the material

  • evaluate the material

a.) Standard Exams (more "objective"?)

• True / False

• Matching

• Multiple Choice

• Short Answer (1-2 sentences)

• Identification

• Terminology

• Definitions

• Examples

 

b.) Essay Exams (more "subjective"?)

• Short Essays
  • Possibly 3-5 in a 50-minute class period
  • Usually 1-2 paragraphs in length
  • Usually "body paragraphs" only -- no introduction or conclusion paragraphs
  • Types -- to provide short responses, definitions, examples, etc.
     
• Full-length Essays
  • Possibly 1-2 in a 50-minute class period
  • Usually 3-6 paragraphs in length
  • Usually very brief (1-2 sentence) introductions and conclusions
  • Spend the most time on developing good body paragraphs
  • Grading does take into account that you are writing "under pressure" -- click here for a sample grading system