Tips on TAKS Writing for Grade 7
The Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) is a standardized test given annually to all Texas public school students beginning in grade three. In seventh grade, students must complete a written composition as part of TAKS. Students are expected to write a composition for a specific purpose and to demonstrate mastery of the five-step writing process as defined by the written expression TEKS, or Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills, for seventh grade.
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Five-step Writing Process
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Seventh-grade students are expected to demonstrate the ability to use the elements of the writing process in their TAKS composition. These elements include planning the composition, writing a draft, revising and editing the draft and publishing a final product. Use the extra space provided in the composition booklet to organize thoughts and to write a first draft. Review the draft, make edits and revisions, and write a final version.
Unique Angle
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Seventh-grade TEKS for writing include standards for writing about literary texts, narratives about their own experiences, persuasive essays, and expository or informational essays. Be prepared to write about any of these topics. No matter what the writing prompt, select a unique angle or perspective from which to write. This adds interest to the essay. Middle school students are expected to include a thesis statement in their introduction and then carry that thesis through the rest of the essay. Try to hook the reader with this statement, as it sets the tone for the rest of the essay.
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Sentence Type and Word Choice
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By seventh grade, students know how to write different types of sentences. Varying the use of simple, compound and complex sentences, and varying sentence length, creates a more readable and interesting composition. Word choice also impacts readability. Use active, not passive, verbs whenever possible, and avoid using common adjectives and adverbs. During the revision process, replace common or repetitive words with more descriptive words that help paint a picture in the reader's mind.
Specific Purpose, Specific Audience
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Remain focused as you write. Tie every paragraph to the thesis statement, which should be a response to the writing prompt provided on the test. The paragraphs in the composition should build on each other, culminating in a strong closing paragraph. Make sure the composition has a beginning, middle and end. Re-read the writing prompt and then your composition to confirm it responds to the prompt. If it does not, or if the focus is unclear, revise the composition.
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