Writing
Writing Lessons
The CAEC Writing test is a single persuasive writing task, scored out of 9 across three equal dimensions: Position & Support, Voice & Presentation, and Conventions/Mechanics/Syntax. There is no separate multiple-choice grammar section, conventions are scored inside your own essay.
1 persuasive essay · 75 min · scored out of 9
Understanding the Writing Task and Rubric
CoreLearn how the single 75-minute task is scored out of 9 across three equal dimensions, so you know what markers reward.
Read lesson →Summarizing and Paraphrasing the Source
FoundationalRead the prompt scenario, find the key parts, and restate them in your own words to use as evidence.
Read lesson →Planning and Outlining Under Time
FoundationalBrainstorm a position, choose arguments and evidence, and outline intro/body/conclusion to fit 75 minutes.
Read lesson →Revising and Editing Your Own Writing
CoreRe-read to confirm arguments are supported and fix grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence errors before submitting.
Read lesson →Taking a Clear Position and Writing a Thesis
CoreTake a defensible position on the issue and package it as a clear thesis statement.
Read lesson →Building Persuasive Arguments
CorePresent persuasive arguments that are clear, adequate, and relevant to your position.
Read lesson →Supporting Arguments with Evidence
CoreSupport claims with appropriate evidence, avoiding contradictory, overgeneralized, or off-topic support.
Read lesson →Audience Awareness and Appropriate Tone
CoreMaintain a tone appropriate to the audience, typically formal for a letter or email.
Read lesson →Diction and Voice
CoreUse word choice and stylistic choices to create a clear, distinct voice.
Read lesson →Organizing the Persuasive Piece
CoreArrange the discussion in a logical order with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Read lesson →Word Choice and Task-Appropriate Expressions
CoreApply words and expressions related to the task and use them appropriately.
Read lesson →Grammar, Usage, and Subject-Verb Agreement
CoreControl grammar and usage, including subject-verb agreement, which the rubric names as a graded error type.
Read lesson →Spelling and Punctuation
CoreRespect conventions and mechanics; spelling and punctuation errors lower the score.
Read lesson →Sentence Structure, Variety, and Flow
CoreControl sentence structures and flow with variety, avoiding run-ons and fragments.
Read lesson →
Want everything in one place? The CAEC Ready Workbook covers all five subjects.
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