sample ssat essay responses

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The SSAT Writing Sample: What You Need to Know

The ssat writing sample  .

Bonus Material:  30 Free SSAT Writing Sample Prompts

The first section of the SSAT is the writing sample. While this 25-minute section is unscored, admissions officers do review student responses!

In this post, we discuss how to approach the SSAT writing sample and offer 16 easy tips for producing a high-quality response .

You’ll also get access to 30 free SSAT writing sample prompts , which you can grab below right now.

Download 30 SSAT Writing Sample Prompts

Here’s what we cover:

The SSAT Writing Sample in a Nutshell

• 16 Tips for Writing an Impressive Response
• Bonus : 30 SSAT Writing Sample Prompts  

There are a few essential things to keep in mind with the SSAT writing sample:

• The writing sample is unscored but is sent to admissions departments with your SSAT scores
• The writing sample is a 25-minute free response
• Students have two pages to write their answer

SSAT writing sample prompts vary depending on whether you’re taking the Upper-Level SSAT or Middle-Level SSAT:

• Upper Level: you have the choice to write a persuasive essay or a creative story. 
• Middle Level: both prompt choices are creative essays.

The test will begin the SSAT Writing Sample section by offering you a choice:

Please choose the idea you find most interesting and write a story using the idea as your first sentence. Please fill in the circle next to the one you choose.

Students do not need any outside content knowledge to respond to an SSAT writing prompt. In fact, the prompts are intentionally broad to enable a wide variety of responses.

The SSAT actually states that the writing sample gives admissions departments a chance to learn more about applicants:

Schools would like to get to know you better through a story you tell using one of the ideas below. 

Keep this in mind as you generate your response!

16 Tips for Writing an Impressive SSAT Writing Sample Response

Which prompt should i choose.

Students taking the Upper-Level SSAT will have to choose between a persuasive and a creative writing prompt. Middle-Level SSAT test-takers must choose between 2 different creative essay prompts.

Some students agonize over which prompt to choose on the Upper-Level or Middle-Level SSAT. Will one look “better” to admissions officers over another, for example?

It’s important to note that admissions officers will not give preference to students who choose one prompt over another ! 

Officers only review your writing sample response for its individual merits and writing proficiency. They might also review samples through the lens of what we like to call “institutional priorities”–standards that are specific to that private school itself.

Tips For Prompt Selection

We do encourage students to select the prompt that adheres to one or more of the following qualities. 

We suggest students choose the Writing Sample prompt that

• is most relevant given a student’s life experiences and perspectives
• inspires the most ideas during the brainstorming process
• excites, intrigues, or compels them
• and/or showcases a student’s specific abilities.

For example, let’s say that MacKenzie excels in debate; she loves crafting an argument and supporting her points with specific, concrete evidence. As a debater, MacKenzie might be uniquely suited to respond to the persuasive Writing Sample prompt on the Upper-Level SSAT, especially if she is talented in developing a complex, high-level argument.

On the other hand, Akshay may find that as he’s considering the two prompts on the Middle-Level SSAT, the second creative prompt reminds him about his relationship with his grandmother and the time they’ve spent playing pickleball together. In the brainstorming process, he feels that he has more to say about this personal experience, and feels excited by the prospect.

Some students like to plan the prompt they’ll choose on Test Day: i.e., they know they’ll always stick with the creative prompt over the persuasive one.

However, many of our SSAT students find that the prompts can be very distinct, and one will often “stick out” over the other one.

That’s why we recommend practicing with sample SSAT writing prompts, so that you can be prepared to craft a stellar response for whichever prompt you select. You can do this right now by downloading 30 free sample prompts below.

5 General Tips for the SSAT Writing Sample

Whether you choose a creative or persuasive essay prompt, it’s important to follow these general tips.

Doing so won’t result in a high SSAT score (because this section is unscored!). But it will guarantee a response likely to impress admissions departments.

• Write legibly : If admissions departments can’t read your response, they’ll never know how amazing your essay is!
• Budget your time: This includes a few minutes for planning/outlining at the beginning, and another few minutes for a proof-read for grammar, spelling, and punctuation at the end.
• Fill your booklet: We’re not advocating quantity over quality. But, in general, aim for more rather than less . If you only write one paragraph, it won’t give admissions committees much to assess.
• Keep tense and point of view consistent : Don’t switch from past to present verb tense or “I” to “he/she/it” halfway through your essay.
• Stick to a clear structure : This refers quite simply to a framework of beginning, middle, and end . This can mean slightly different things for persuasive and creative essays.

3 Tips for Responding to Persuasive SSAT Writing Sample Prompts (Upper-Level)

For the Upper-Level SSAT persuasive writing sample, students should focus on logically and convincingly building an argument . A logical, persuasive argument generally includes a cohesive structure, clear line of reasoning, and solid evidence. 

There are a couple of tools we can use to accomplish this goal.

1. Include an introduction, thesis, and conclusion. 

Essay reviewers will like to see several distinct argument building blocks in your essay, especially an introduction, a thesis statement, and a conclusion. Most SSAT test-takers will have worked on these components of the 5-paragraph essay in class.

Given the Writing Sample’s time limit (25 minutes), the introduction and conclusion of your response can be fairly brief; feel free to write just a sentence or two for both.

The thesis statement typically comes at the end of the introduction, and concisely states the core argument that you are about to prove. 

Here’s an example thesis statement:

While there are many qualities that make a good leader, the three most important ones are integrity, commitment to a cause, and ability to inspire others.

2. Choose and maintain a clear thesis statement. 

It’s easier to pick one side of an argument and commit to it than to try to argue both sides of the fence. In fact, your thesis statement should be as clear as possible in its perspective.

That doesn’t mean your essay can’t include an evaluation of a counterargument , in which you bring up an opposing argument and show why your own is stronger. In fact, the counterargument can be a powerful device in persuasive essays! 

Here’s an example of a counterargument:

It is true that success can help show you what you are doing right, but you will always be limited by what you believe you can achieve; whereas if you are not afraid to fail, you may realize you are capable of more than you had imagined.

Be sure to maintain your thesis statement throughout your essay, referencing it in every topic sentence of individual paragraphs.

Note: It is all right to use the first-person point of view in these responses, even though most English teachers discourage this in the classroom.

3. Use specific examples to support your argument. 

Strong, specific examples demonstrate that you can point to relevant evidence correlating your argument. History, current events, and experiences from your own life are some great sources from which to draw.

Here’s an example of a statement supported by specific evidence:

Abraham Lincoln was only president for four years, but his commitment to his cause of American union makes him consistently one of the most popular presidents in history. Similarly, in my personal life, my favorite teachers and coaches have always been the ones who were passionate about their subjects or the act of teaching itself.

3 Tips for Responding to Creative SSAT Writing Sample Prompts

Students taking the Middle-Level SSAT will have to choose between 2 creative essay prompts. Upper-Level SSAT test-takers must choose between a creative prompt and a persuasive one.

If you select the creative SSAT writing sample prompt on either test, your primary goal is to show that you can tell an engaging, well-structured story . 

It may be a true story from your own life or one completely based on imagination. All that matters is that you tell it in a compelling fashion and demonstrate proficiency in basic creative writing techniques, such as dialogue, setting, plot development, description, and narrative arc.

Below are some tips to help with this.

1. In the opening of your essay, establish the setting. 

Setting or place is a foundational element of basic creative writing. Establishing your response’s setting at the start will demonstrate your attention to this.

A great tool here is vivid descriptive detail that utilizes the senses. Think about what the characters are seeing, touching, hearing, tasting, or smelling as they move around their specific environment.

The same goes for imagery. Fill your prose with rich images to set the scene for the reader and guide them through the narrative. Here’s an example of compelling imagery in action that establishes setting:

Pebbles crunched all around her as she pushed herself faster downhill, and her eyes watered from the red dust that was turning her throat dry.

2. Establish the main character(s) and conflict. 

What does the main character want, and what is stopping them from reaching this goal? Identify this before writing your essay, and be sure to establish it early on in your response.

The classic examples of conflict are character against nature, character against character, and character against self. Here is an example of narrative conflict:

She had to get to the bottom of the trail before the gulch flooded and took her horse downstream with it.

3. Follow the general principles of story structure.

You probably already know these general principles from all the books, movies, and TV shows you have watched in your life: most stories have a beginning, middle, and end. As the character deals with the conflict, the action rises to a climax. As the character overcomes the conflict, action falls toward a conclusion.

We strongly recommend outlining and brainstorming the story structure of your creative response before plunging in, as in the following example:

In the beginning, the main character is racing down the rocky trail to save her horse from an approaching flood. Conflict arises when a boulder is blocking the trail, which she overcomes by taking a shortcut. In the end, she reaches the bottom of the trail and saves her horse just in time. 

4 Additional Tips

Now that you have more of a sense of what the SSAT writing sample entails, here’s what you can do to prepare: 

• Take a practice timed SSAT writing sample . Make sure to budget a couple of minutes at the beginning for planning and a couple of minutes at the end for proofreading!
• Show your practice essay to trusted readers . Ask them to note any errors and provide feedback. Do they feel convinced by your argument or engaged by your story?
• Reflect on the comments on your writing sample. What worked in your initial attempt, and what didn’t? Should you organize your time differently?
• Repeat! Notice how the comments evolve as you keep practicing. Are there words you are consistently misspelling? Elements you keep forgetting to include?

Over time, you will feel yourself becoming more comfortable with the SSAT writing sample. Practice can also help you understand how the writing response can be a space for showcasing your unique ideas and personality!

Download 30 SSAT Writing Sample Prompts for Practice

You can put these 16 tips to practice right now by downloading PrepMaven’s 30 free SSAT writing sample prompts!

With this worksheet, you’ll get:

• 15 Creative SSAT Writing Sample prompts
• 15 Persuasive SSAT Writing Sample prompts
• A valuable long-term resource for your continued SSAT prep

Jess is a Princeton graduate who majored in English and minored in Visual Arts (Film). She has worked as an SAT/ACT/AP/SSAT/ISEE/HSPT tutor as well as a college counselor and loves getting to know students through her work. When not tutoring, she enjoys reading, writing, running, adding to her classic rock music collection, and exploring the West!

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SSAT Essay Writing Sample 1

Home > SSAT Test > SSAT Writing > SSAT Essay Samples

Directions: Choose the essay topic appropriate to your exam and write an essay. Sample responses begin on the next page.

Topic: Some educators suggest that all elementary, middle school, and high school students should be required to wear school uniforms. What do you think?

Essay Sample:

Many people have suggested that all students be required to wear uniforms to school. Some students object to this idea because it takes away their individuality, but I think there are a number of reasons why school uniforms might be a good idea.

Over the past few years, there have been no dress guidelines and no dress codes in our schools. Some students just naturally dress neatly and appropriately, but others are truly sloppy. When people dress in sloppy clothing, they tend to be too relaxed. This leads to sloppy thinking. Pretty soon they lose respect for school and teachers and the whole learning process. School uniforms would remind these students that they are in school for a purpose. I think that if everyone were dressed in the same uniform there would be more school spirit too. Students would all feel as if they were part of something important.

Some students, especially girls, worry too much about their clothes and how they look. They bother their parents to spend too much on clothes, often more than their families can afford, and are always trying to compete. I have heard about boys fighting over "status" clothes. There have been cases of stealing fancy jackets and sneakers and even some knifings. School uniforms might cost more, but each student needs only two or three of them. This would take the pressure off poorer families. If everyone dressed alike, there would be no competition. A special benefit that educators probably haven't thought of is that of extra sleep. With no choice of what to wear, it will be much quicker to dress and get out in the morning.

I think we should try out school uniforms. I expect that discipline, paying attention, and school spirit will go up while squabbles about appearance and fights over clothing will go down. And I think that many students will be happier without the competition, and parents will be happier too.

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Strategies for Acing the SSAT Writing Sample

Introduction

The Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) includes a writing sample as part of its assessment to gauge a student's ability to express ideas clearly and coherently. Acing the SSAT writing sample requires a combination of effective writing strategies and a thorough understanding of the prompt. In this guide, we will explore key strategies to help you excel in the SSAT writing section.

 1. Understand the Prompt:

1.1 read carefully:.

   - Take the time to read the prompt carefully. Understand the main question or statement, and identify the key components that you need to address in your response.

1.2 Consider Different Perspectives:

   - If the prompt involves a scenario or situation, consider various perspectives before formulating your response. This can help you present a well-rounded argument.

 2. Organize Your Thoughts:

2.1 create an outline:.

   - Before you start writing, create a brief outline to organize your thoughts. Identify the main points you want to address in each paragraph to ensure a logical and structured response.

2.2 Thesis Statement:

   - Clearly articulate your thesis or main idea in the introduction. Your thesis should directly address the prompt and provide a roadmap for the reader.

 3. Be Concise and Clear:

3.1 avoid redundancy:.

   - Keep your writing concise and avoid unnecessary repetition. Ensure that each sentence contributes to the overall coherence of your response.

3.2 Use Clear Language:

   - Aim for clarity in your expression. Use straightforward language and avoid overly complex sentences that may confuse the reader.

 4. Show, Don't Just Tell:

4.1 provide examples:.

   - Support your points with relevant examples. Whether drawing from personal experiences, literature, or historical events, concrete examples add depth to your writing.

4.2 Use Descriptive Language:

   - Employ descriptive language to enhance your writing. Engage the reader by incorporating vivid details that create a more compelling narrative.

 5. Craft a Strong Conclusion:

5.1 summarize key points:.

   - In your conclusion, briefly summarize the key points you've addressed in your response. Reinforce your thesis and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

5.2 Connect to the Introduction:

   - Tie your conclusion back to your introduction. This creates a sense of cohesion and demonstrates a well-structured essay.

 6. Edit and Revise:

6.1 check for grammar and spelling:.

   - Before submitting your final response, carefully proofread your essay for grammar and spelling errors. A polished essay reflects a commitment to quality.

6.2 Review Clarity and Coherence:

   - Ensure that your ideas flow logically from one paragraph to the next. Review sentence structure and transitions to maintain clarity and coherence.

 7. Manage Your Time Wisely:

7.1 allocate time effectively:.

   - Given the time constraints of the SSAT writing sample, allocate your time wisely. Plan to spend a few minutes understanding the prompt, creating an outline, and the majority of your time on writing and revising.

7.2 Practice Time Management:

   - Practice writing timed essays to improve your ability to manage time effectively. This helps build confidence and ensures that you can complete the writing sample within the allotted timeframe.

 8. Review Sample Prompts:

8.1 familiarize yourself:.

   - Familiarize yourself with sample prompts to understand the types of questions that may be asked. Practice responding to a variety of prompts to enhance your versatility.

8.2 Analyze Model Essays:

   - Analyze model essays to identify effective writing strategies. Pay attention to how writers structure their responses, use evidence, and address the prompt.

 9. Seek Feedback:

9.1 peer review:.

   - Exchange essays with peers or seek feedback from teachers. Constructive criticism can provide valuable insights and help you refine your writing skills.

9.2 Reflect on Feedback:

   - Reflect on feedback received and identify areas for improvement. Use feedback as a tool for continuous growth in your writing abilities.

 10. Stay Calm and Focused:

10.1 maintain composure:.

    - Stay calm and focused during the writing sample. Manage any potential stress by taking a few deep breaths before beginning and maintaining a positive mindset.

10.2 Stick to Your Plan:

    - Stick to your pre-established plan and avoid second-guessing yourself. Trust your preparation and respond confidently to the prompt.

 Conclusion:

Acing the SSAT writing sample requires a combination of strategic planning, effective communication, and a confident writing style. By understanding the prompt, organizing your thoughts, using clear and concise language, and practicing time management, you can approach the writing sample with confidence and produce a well-crafted essay that showcases your writing skills to the best of your ability.

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What to Know About SSAT & ISEE Writing Samples

Posted on: March 19, 2019

One aspect that the SSAT and ISEE have in common is the writing sample. Each test asks the student to write a relatively short essay in response to a prompt provided by the test. On the SSAT, students have the choice between different styles of prompts. The ISEE simply offers a single standardized test type of prompt. Both tests give students a page for notes and two lined pages for the actual essay. The SSAT essay is at the beginning of the test, while the ISEE essay is at the end. Naturally, parents are concerned about how to best prepare students for the essays. Here are the major points to keep in mind. Read these with your student to be sure they know what to expect. Your tutor will review the writing as well.

It Doesn’t Count, Except That It Does. (Or It Doesn’t Count, Mostly.)

Neither the SSAT nor the ISEE writing samples are scored. Although students will want to make a good impression, it is important to remember that no score is given to the essay. The writing samples are sent along with the test scores to the recipient schools designated by the families. They provide another piece of information to the admissions team. Instead of spending time and energy wondering how to ace the essay, try spending a little more time clarifying your strategies for the multiple choice sections of the test, which are scored.

The writing sample represents another opportunity for the school to get to know the student. Students get a chance to practice when taking the tests in the PrepMatters office. Additionally, tutors may assign an essay as part of the homework. Here are some suggestions on how to create a piece that is a solid addition to your overall profile.

Plan for Success

Both the ISEE and the SSAT give you space to plan your essay. Use It. In whatever “format” works best, you should take a few moments to jot down thoughts about what you would say in response to the prompt. We use the term “format” loosely here . Bullet points. Formal outline. Thought Bubbles. Words on a page. Also, think about which points are stronger. This planning sheet is not reviewed by the school, so students should format in a way that is quick and clear to them. Brainstorm and get the ideas you will use out of your head and onto the page. Then, as you write, you’ll have a handy checklist to aid in the process. Take just a few minutes – maximum five, for the planning stage.

Brevity and Clarity

When composing our response, we want to remember our readers. As a writer, I want to make it easy for them to understand my point of view and to follow my reasoning. Although you’ll want to have some variety to your sentences, you’ll mostly want them to be clear. Additionally, you’ll want your sentences to be shorter rather than convoluted and possibly hard to follow. Even if you are doing the creative prompt for the SSAT, you will want to choose sentences that are more to the point. Though it can be a chance to show off our growing vocabulary, don’t worry about using all of the hardest words you know. Remember, clarity is worth more than having the most obscure words in our writing.

Evidence and Explanation

We want to make reviewing our essay a pleasant task for the reader. This means we want to tell them where we are going, then take them there. This sample is not as sophisticated as your writing for your English class, but it should still follow some basic rules:

Take a clear position.

Some of the essay prompts can have more than one response. Also, there is no one right answer. You don’t want to take too much time examining alternatives. At most, briefly mention some possibilities, then make a definitive statement about where your essay is going. “Although there have been many great leaders in our nation’s history, I would most like to have dinner with Franklin D. Roosevelt.”

Use paragraph form.

We don’t want our pages covered by a solid block of words. We want clear paragraph breaks to indicate new subjects. By focusing on one aspect of the larger picture, each paragraph helps us organize what we have to say. If I am sharing a story about the time our club held a food drive, I should have separate paragraphs explaining how we got organized, the challenges we faced, and the actual event.

Provide specific evidence.

This is where the planning comes in handy. If you say that leadership is important, be sure to tell the reader about actual leaders you have had, have learned about, or have been. Support for your claims can come from history, books you’ve read, or real life. What personal experiences can you draw on to back up your statements? It is much stronger to say that loyalty is important, then share the time you were loyal to a classmate when they were getting picked on for being different.

Important to Remember

Since this is a standardized test, there are some additional factors we should be considering. We have two pages for our response. Try to use at least one and half pages. Don’t begin your essay on the page for notes: that will not be read. Keep your writing within the lines. The essay is scanned digitally and what is outside may not be legible. Speaking of legibility, be sure to write in your most readable handwriting. Both tests accept either cursive or print. Similarly, try to use correct grammar and punctuation, but don’t stress and eat up precious time debating. Although our goal is, of course, none, one or two errors won’t distract the reader from your message or make it hard for them to understand you. You won’t know your reader. You are writing to an adult, or a group of adults, who don’t know you. It is better to be a little more formal, as you would speak to your school principal. Be honest in your writing, but be respectful. Pretend you are writing to someone from a different background, a different gender, or a different part of your city or country. If you are not using history or literature, use real events from your life. The readers don’t want to read about games, movies, or other popular culture, though these can be used as examples.

One Good Swing

Again, the writing sample is only one, ungraded, part of your SSAT or ISEE. Do your best to follow the tips here, then forget about it. You are either off to conquer the rest of the test or to enjoy the rest of the day and your academic year.

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SSAT Writing Prompts: Conquer the Writing Section

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Are you feeling uneasy about the upcoming SSAT exam? Don’t fret, because we’re about to equip you with the tools you need ⁤to conquer the ⁤writing ​section! Whether you’re ​a student preparing ⁢for the Secondary School Admission Test or a concerned parent searching for ways to support your child’s success, this‍ article is here to ⁢guide you through the ins and outs of ‌SSAT writing prompts. From understanding the requirements to crafting a compelling essay,⁢ we’ll unravel the secrets to acing this crucial section. So, get ready to⁢ unleash your inner ⁣wordsmith and discover the ⁤surefire strategies that ​will boost your confidence and propel you towards ⁤writing excellence!

Understanding the Structure and Scoring⁣ of SSAT Writing Prompts

Mastering‌ time management: key to success in ssat writing section, crafting effective introductions: grabbing the examiner’s attention, developing strong‌ body‍ paragraphs: coherent and persuasive arguments, enhancing your writing style:⁢ the secret to impressive ssat essays, effective conclusion strategies: leaving a lasting impression, editing and revising ssat essays: polishing your work ‍for perfection, frequently asked questions, future outlook.

The structure and scoring of SSAT writing prompts play a crucial role in determining a student’s performance⁤ on this section of the test. ‍Understanding these aspects can help you better prepare for‌ the exam and improve your writing skills. Here’s a ⁢breakdown of the key components to keep in mind:

1. ‌**Structure:** SSAT writing prompts typically provide a specific scenario or topic that requires you to⁤ express your thoughts‍ or opinions. Remember ​to address the prompt directly and ‌stay ⁤focused on the given topic. Organize your essay ⁣into three​ main sections: an introduction that ​clearly‍ presents your stance, ⁣body paragraphs that support your argument with evidence or examples, and⁤ a‍ conclusion that summarizes ‌your key​ points.

2. **Scoring:** When scoring‍ your essay, the SSAT considers four main ⁤areas: content, organization,​ sentence structure, and grammar. Content refers to the relevance and clarity of‌ your ideas, while organization‍ evaluates how well ​your essay is outlined‌ and ⁣flows⁢ from one ‍point to another. Focus⁢ on⁣ using‌ well-structured sentences and paragraphs,‍ demonstrating a variety of sentence structures, and utilizing proper ‌grammar and punctuation. Remember to support your arguments with specific ⁣examples⁣ or evidence to ⁤strengthen your​ response.

By , you can effectively approach the essay section with confidence. Practice writing essays using different prompts to​ familiarize yourself ​with both the format and ⁢requirements. Don’t forget to proofread your work ‌before submitting it,​ as clear and error-free writing can significantly enhance your⁣ final score.

Effective time management is crucial for achieving success in the SSAT Writing Section. In this section, students are required to craft a well-structured essay within a strict⁢ time ⁢limit . By‍ mastering time management skills, ​students can optimize their performance⁣ and showcase their writing abilities to the fullest. Here‍ are some essential tips:

• Plan your‍ essay: Before you begin writing, take a few minutes ⁤to brainstorm and ⁢outline your ‍ideas. This will help you stay focused and organized throughout the writing process.
• Allocate time wisely: Divide the available time to ensure​ you have enough ‌for planning, writing, and proofreading. Aim to spend approximately 10% of the‍ total time on planning,​ 70% ‍on writing, and the remaining 20% on editing.
• Stick to the prompt: Ensure that your essay directly addresses the‌ given prompt. ​Straying off-topic can waste ⁤precious time and may result in a lower score.

Moreover, it is⁤ vital to ⁣practice ​time management⁤ techniques before the actual SSAT exam. By setting ‌aside regular study sessions and simulating test-like​ conditions, you can hone your ability to work efficiently under time constraints. ‍Remember, by mastering time management, you’ll enhance your chances of​ achieving a stellar score in the SSAT Writing Section.

Crafting Effective Introductions is a crucial skill that can elevate your writing to new heights. When it comes to ⁢academic or⁤ professional writing, grabbing the examiner’s attention from the very beginning is paramount. So, how ‌can you⁢ ensure that your ⁣introductions are not only captivating but also successful in setting the tone‍ for the rest ‌of your work? Dive in and ⁤discover some valuable tips that will make your introductions shine.

1. ⁢Know‍ your audience: Understanding who will be reading your work is essential. Tailor your introduction to resonate with the examiner’s interests‌ and captivate their⁤ attention right from⁤ the start.

2. Start with a provocative question: A well-crafted question can instantly engage the examiner’s curiosity. It’s an ‍effective technique ⁤to make them⁣ stop and think⁢ about the topic‌ you’re introducing.‍ Be sure to follow ⁣up with thought-provoking ‍points to maintain their interest.

3.​ Begin with an anecdote: Storytelling is a ⁤powerful tool. A thoughtfully chosen anecdote can create an emotional connection ​with‍ the examiner and make ‍your introduction ‍more relatable. Choose a story that aligns with your topic and supports the ⁢main idea of your ‌work.

Developing a strong⁤ body paragraph is essential for constructing coherent and persuasive arguments. By organizing your thoughts and providing solid evidence, you can effectively convince your readers ‌of your standpoint. ‍Here are a few tips ⁤to ⁢help ​you create impactful body paragraphs:

1. Clearly state your main idea: Begin each ⁣body paragraph with a clear topic sentence that highlights ⁣the main⁣ point you ‍are trying to convey. This will guide your readers and ensure that your argument stays focused and coherent.

2.​ Provide supporting‍ evidence: Back up your claims with reliable evidence and⁤ examples. This can include data, statistics, expert⁣ opinions, or anecdotes. Presenting solid evidence not⁣ only adds credibility⁤ to your argument but also persuades your readers ‌to consider your perspective.

3. Use⁤ logical transitions: Ensure that your paragraphs flow smoothly by using ‍logical ​transitions between ideas. ​This helps ⁣your readers⁢ to follow ⁢your‍ thought process effortlessly . Utilize transitional words and ​phrases such as “in addition,” “however,” “moreover,” and “on the ⁣other hand” ⁤to create coherence.

4. Develop counterarguments: Anticipate and address potential counterarguments to strengthen your persuasion. Acknowledging opposing ⁤viewpoints demonstrates ‌that you have considered different sides of the issue and can effectively refute them. By doing⁣ so, you establish credibility and‍ show that ‌you have thoroughly analyzed the topic.

5. Elaborate and explain: Provide detailed explanations and examples to support your argument. Elaborate on your evidence and clearly demonstrate its ⁢relevance to your main idea. This will help your readers understand the importance of your argument⁣ and engage with‌ your writing.

Remember, the key to writing⁣ coherent and persuasive body paragraphs lies in ‍organizing your thoughts, ⁣providing‌ evidence, using logical transitions, addressing counterarguments, and ‌elaborating on your points. By following these guidelines, you can create compelling arguments that ⁤will captivate your audience and leave a lasting impact.

Mastering the art⁢ of essay writing is crucial for success in the SSAT, and a powerful writing style can take your essays to the next level. With a captivating writing style, not only will you impress the graders, but you will also engage your readers and ​make a lasting impact. So, how can you enhance your writing style and make your SSAT essays stand out from the rest?

One key element⁢ to⁢ consider is sentence variety. Instead of​ using the same sentence structure throughout your essay, experiment with different sentence types, ⁤such as compound, complex, and‍ simple sentences. This​ will add depth and rhythm to your writing, making it ⁢more interesting to read. Additionally, avoid starting every sentence with the subject. ‌Instead, vary ​the beginnings ‌of your sentences ‌by⁤ using introductory phrases or clauses. This will make⁣ your writing more⁢ engaging and showcase your⁣ versatility‍ as‌ a writer.

• Utilize vivid vocabulary​ to bring​ your ideas to life and make ‍your ⁢writing more impactful. Use strong adjectives and adverbs that paint ‌a vivid picture⁣ in the reader’s mind. Replace ordinary words with more descriptive alternatives to create‍ a more dynamic and ⁤engaging essay.
• Don’t shy⁣ away from figurative language. Incorporating‌ literary devices such as ‌metaphors, similes, ​and personification can elevate your writing style to a whole new level. They not only add richness and creativity to your essays but ​also make ‍your ⁢ideas more memorable.

Structure your essay effectively by organizing⁣ your thoughts into coherent paragraphs. Each paragraph should ‌have a clear topic sentence⁢ that introduces the main idea. Support your claims ​with well-chosen evidence, examples, or ⁣anecdotes. ⁣Additionally, ⁢ensure smooth transitions between⁤ paragraphs to create a seamless flow of ideas. This ⁢will make your essay more readable and cohesive.

As you wrap up your‌ piece and aim to leave a lasting impression on your readers, it is crucial to employ effective⁢ conclusion strategies. ‍A strong conclusion​ not only reinforces your ​main points but also provides a sense of closure to your audience. ⁣By incorporating the following strategies, you can ensure that⁣ your conclusion leaves a​ memorable impact:

• Summarize your main points: Remind your readers of the key arguments or ideas presented throughout your piece. Summarizing these points concisely helps reinforce your message while refreshing their memory.
• Evoke emotions: Leave ⁣your ⁤audience with a⁤ powerful emotional appeal that resonates with them. Whether it’s ⁣through a poignant ‌story, a thought-provoking question , ⁤or a heartfelt call to action,​ engaging their emotions creates a lasting impact.
• Inject a memorable quote: ‍ When appropriate, incorporating a relevant and impactful quote ‍can leave a strong impression on your readers. Choose ⁢a‍ quote that supports your arguments or conveys a powerful‍ message,⁣ ensuring⁢ it aligns with the ​overall ⁢tone and theme of your piece.

In addition to these strategies, ⁤remember to keep your ⁣conclusion concise and to the⁢ point. Avoid introducing new ideas ‌or ⁢arguments, as this may confuse or overwhelm your readers. Instead, focus on reinforcing your main message and leaving your audience with a⁢ sense of fulfillment and appreciation for the journey they have ⁣taken with you.

When it comes to writing an impressive SSAT essay, ​the journey doesn’t end after‌ the last sentence has been typed. In fact, it is during the editing and revising stage where your essay‍ truly comes ⁢to life. ⁤This crucial step allows you to refine your ideas, enhance clarity, and ensure your work is flawless. So, grab your virtual red pen and let’s dive into the art of editing!

1. Review for⁢ structure and organization:

• Check if your introduction sets​ the stage by capturing⁣ the reader’s ‍attention. Is it engaging?
• Ensure that each ​paragraph focuses on a single idea⁢ and flows logically from⁢ one to the next.
• Examine the conclusion: ‍Does it​ effectively summarize your ⁢main points and leave ⁤a lasting impression?

2. Polish your language and style:

• Scan for grammatical errors, misspelled ​words, and ⁢punctuation mistakes. Make sure‌ your language is clear and concise.
• Use vivid adjectives and strong‍ verbs to make your writing more engaging and⁤ descriptive.
• Differentiate your ‍sentence structure⁤ by incorporating both‍ short and long sentences⁤ to create rhythm.

Q: What is the SSAT Writing section? A: The SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) Writing⁢ section ‌is a timed, 25-minute​ test that evaluates a student’s ability to organize and express their thoughts effectively through writing.

Q: How is the Writing section​ scored on the ⁤SSAT? A: The Writing section⁢ is scored on a scale of 0-6 by two different evaluators. These scores are then combined ​to determine the final score, ranging from 0-12.

Q: What types of prompts‌ can I expect in the Writing section? A: The writing prompts in ‍the SSAT can vary, ‍but‌ they generally require students to express their ⁢opinions, defend a viewpoint, or analyze a ⁣given‍ situation. Be prepared to write a persuasive essay or ⁢engage in critical thinking.

Q: How can I prepare for the SSAT Writing section? A: To⁤ prepare for the Writing section, practice brainstorming ideas, outlining your arguments, and structuring your essays. Focus on developing a clear thesis statement, using evidence to support your claims, and writing​ coherent ⁤paragraphs.

Q: Are there any specific strategies I should use during the exam? A: Yes, during the exam, spend a couple ⁣of minutes planning​ your essay before you start writing. This will provide a strong foundation for⁣ your response. Make ⁣sure to stay focused on the prompt, use relevant examples, and ⁣check ⁤for ​any spelling or grammatical errors before submitting ⁤your essay.

Q: Is handwriting important in the SSAT Writing ‌section? A: Yes, legible handwriting is crucial in the SSAT Writing section. Although ‌content matters most, an essay that is difficult to read can affect the evaluator’s understanding of your response.

Q: How much time should I spend ‍on each part of the Writing section? A:⁣ It is suggested to spend ⁤approximately 5 minutes on planning ⁣and organizing your thoughts, ‌around 15 ‌minutes on writing your essay, and the remaining few minutes on reviewing and⁤ editing your⁢ work.

Q: Can I use ​personal experiences in my response? A: Yes, incorporating personal experiences can add depth to your essay and make it more compelling.‌ However, ensure that your personal anecdotes directly relate to the prompt and support⁢ your ⁣argument.

Q: Are there any ⁣resources available to help me improve my writing skills for the SSAT? A: Absolutely! Many online platforms offer⁢ sample prompts, essay guides, and practice tests specifically designed ​for the⁢ SSAT Writing‍ section. ‍These resources can help you become familiar with the format, develop your writing skills, and increase your overall confidence.

Q: How important is the SSAT Writing section in⁢ the overall ⁢SSAT score? A: While the Writing section is just one component of the overall SSAT score, it ⁤is still crucial.⁤ Excellent writing skills demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, analyze information critically, and express‍ your thoughts‍ coherently – all valuable attributes for academic success. ​

In conclusion, by understanding the structure of the⁤ SSAT writing section and practicing with various prompts, you can confidently conquer ⁤this challenging part of the exam.‌

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, sat essay prompts: the complete list.

SAT Writing , SAT Essay

On every SAT Essay, you'll have to read an argument meant to persuade a broad audience and discuss how well the author argues his or her point. The passage you'll have to read will change from test to test, but you'll always need to analyze the author's argument and write a coherent and organized essay explaining this analysis.

In this article, we've compiled a list of the 14 real SAT essay prompts that the College Board has released (either in The Official SAT Study Guide or separately online) for the new SAT. This is the most comprehensive set of new SAT essay prompts online today.

At the end of this article, we'll also guide you through how to get the most out of these prompts and link to our expert resources on acing the SAT essay. I'll discuss how the SAT essay prompts are valuable not just because they give you a chance to write a practice essay, but because of what they reveal about the essay task itself.

UPDATE: SAT Essay No Longer Offered

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In January 2021, the College Board announced that after June 2021, it would no longer offer the Essay portion of the SAT (except at schools who opt in during School Day Testing). It is now no longer possible to take the SAT Essay, unless your school is one of the small number who choose to offer it during SAT School Day Testing.

While most colleges had already made SAT Essay scores optional, this move by the College Board means no colleges now require the SAT Essay. It will also likely lead to additional college application changes such not looking at essay scores at all for the SAT or ACT, as well as potentially requiring additional writing samples for placement.

What does the end of the SAT Essay mean for your college applications? Check out our article on the College Board's SAT Essay decision for everything you need to know.

SAT essay prompts always keep to the same basic format. Not only is the prompt format consistent from test to test, but what you're actually asked to do (discuss how an author builds an argument) also remains the same across different test administrations.

The College Board's predictability with SAT essay helps students focus on preparing for the actual analytical task, rather than having to think up stuff on their feet. Every time, before the passage, you'll see the following:

• evidence, such as facts or examples, to support claims.
• reasoning to develop ideas and to connect claims and evidence.
• stylistic or persuasive elements, such as word choice or appeals to emotion, to add power to the ideas expressed.

And after the passage, you'll see this:

"Write an essay in which you explain how [the author] builds an argument to persuade [her/his] audience that [whatever the author is trying to argue for]. In your essay, analyze how [the author] uses one or more of the features listed in the box above (or features of your own choice) to strengthen the logic and persuasiveness of his argument. Be sure that your analysis focuses on the most relevant features of the passage.

Your essay should not explain whether you agree with [the author]'s claims, but rather explain how [the author] builds an argument to persuade [her/his/their] audience."

Now that you know the format, let's look at the SAT essay prompts list.

14 Official SAT Essay Prompts

The College Board has released a limited number of prompts to help students prep for the essay. We've gathered them for you here, all in one place. We'll be sure to update this article as more prompts are released for practice and/or as more tests are released.

SPOILER ALERT : Since these are the only essay prompts that have been released so far, you may want to be cautious about spoiling them for yourself, particularly if you are planning on taking practice tests under real conditions . This is why I've organized the prompts by the 10 that are in the practice tests (so you can avoid them if need be), the ones that are available online as sample prompts, and the ones that are in the text of the Official SAT Study Guide (Redesigned SAT), all online for free.

Practice Test Prompts

These 10 prompts are taken from the practice tests that the College Board has released.

Practice Test 1 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Jimmy Carter builds an argument to persuade his audience that the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge should not be developed for industry."

Practice Test 2 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Martin Luther King Jr. builds an argument to persuade his audience that American involvement in the Vietnam War is unjust."

Practice Test 3 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Eliana Dockterman builds an argument to persuade her audience that there are benefits to early exposure to technology."

Practice Test 4 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Paul Bogard builds an argument to persuade his audience that natural darkness should be preserved."

Practice Test 5 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Eric Klinenberg builds an argument to persuade his audience that Americans need to greatly reduce their reliance on air-conditioning."

Practice Test 6 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Christopher Hitchens builds an argument to persuade his audience that the original Parthenon sculptures should be returned to Greece."

Practice Test 7 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Zadie Smith builds an argument to persuade her audience that public libraries are important and should remain open"

Practice Test 8 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Bobby Braun builds an argument to persuade his audience that the US government must continue to invest in NASA."

Practice Test 9 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Todd Davidson builds an argument to persuade his audience that the US government must continue to fund national parks."

Practice Test 10 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Richard Schiffman builds an argument to persuade his audience that Americans need to work fewer hours."

Special note: The prompt for Practice Test 4 also appears on the College Board's site with real sample essays written in response. If you've written a practice essay for practice test 4 and want to see what essays of different score levels look like for that particular prompt, you can go there and look at eight real student essays.

Free Online Practice

This prompt comes from the College Board website .

"Write an essay in which you explain how Dana Gioia builds an argument to persuade his audience that the decline of reading in America will have a negative effect on society."

This prompt comes from Khan Academy , where it is listed as an alternate essay prompt to go along with Practice Test 2:

"Write an essay in which you explain how Leo W. Gerard builds an argument to persuade his audience that American colleges and universities should be affordable for all students."

The Official SAT Study Guide 2020

The Official SAT Study Guide (editions published in 2015 and later available online for free) contains all 10 of the previously mentioned practice tests at the end of the book. In the section about the new SAT essay , however, there are two additional sample essay prompts (accompanied by articles to analyze).

Sample Prompt 1:

"Write an essay in which you explain how Peter S. Goodman builds an argument to persuade his audience that news organizations should increase the amount of professional foreign news coverage provided to people in the United States."

Sample Prompt 2:

"Write an essay in which you explain how Adam B. Summers builds an argument to persuade his audience that plastic shopping bags should not be banned."

Ready to go beyond just reading about the SAT? Then you'll love the free five-day trial for our SAT Complete Prep program . Designed and written by PrepScholar SAT experts , our SAT program customizes to your skill level in over 40 subskills so that you can focus your studying on what will get you the biggest score gains.

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How Do You Get the Most Out of These Prompts?

Now that you have all the prompts released by the College Board, it's important to know the best way to use them. Make sure you have a good balance between quality and quantity, and don't burn through all 14 of the real prompts in a row— take the time to learn from your experiences writing the practice essays.

Step By Step Guide on How to Practice Using the Article

#1: Understand how the SAT essay is graded .

#2: Follow along as we write a high-scoring SAT essay, step by step .

#3: Plan a set of features you'll look for in the SAT essay readings and practice writing about them fluidly. This doesn't just mean identifying a technique, like asking a rhetorical question, but explaining why it is persuasive and what effect it has on the reader in the context of a particular topic. We have more information on this step in our article about 6 SAT persuasive devices you can use .

#4: Choose a prompt at random from above, or choose a topic that you think is going to be hard for you to detach from (because you'll want to write about the topic, rather than the argument) set timer to 50 minutes and write the essay. No extra time allowed!

#5: Grade the essay, using the official essay rubric to give yourself a score out of 8 in the reading, analysis, and writing sections.

#6: Repeat steps 4 and 5. Choose the prompts you think will be the hardest for you so that you can so that you're prepared for the worst when the test day comes

#7: If you run out of official prompts to practice with, use the official prompts as models to find examples of other articles you could write about . Start by looking for op-ed articles in online news publications like The New York Times, The Atlantic, LA Times , and so on. For instance, the passage about the plastic bag ban in California (Official SAT Study Guide sample essay prompt 2, above) has a counterpoint here —you could try analyzing and writing about that article as well.

Any additional articles you use for practice on the SAT essay must match the following criteria:

• ideally 650-750 words , although it'll be difficult to find an op-ed piece that's naturally that short. Try to aim for nothing longer than 2000 words, though, or the scope of the article is likely to be wider than anything you'll encounter on the SAT.
• always argumentative/persuasive . The author (or authors) is trying to get readers to agree with a claim or idea being put forward.
• always intended for a wide audience . All the information you need to deconstruct the persuasiveness of the argument is in the passage. This means that articles with a lot of technical jargon that's not explained in the article are not realistic passage to practice with.

What's Next?

We've written a ton of helpful resources on the SAT essay. I f you're just getting started, we recommend beginning with our top SAT essay tips for a quick overview of the essay task and what you need to know.

A little more familiar with the SAT essay but still not quite sure how to write one? Follow along with our step-by-step guide to writing the SAT essay .

Looking to earn a high score? Learn what it takes to get the highest score possible on the SAT essay here .

Plus, if you want a reference linking you to all of our great articles on the SAT essay, be sure to check out our ultimate SAT essay guide .

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points?

Check out our best-in-class online SAT prep program. We guarantee your money back if you don't improve your SAT score by 160 points or more.

Our program is entirely online, and it customizes your prep program to your strengths and weaknesses. We also have expert instructors who can grade every one of your practice SAT essays, giving feedback on how to improve your score.

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Laura graduated magna cum laude from Wellesley College with a BA in Music and Psychology, and earned a Master's degree in Composition from the Longy School of Music of Bard College. She scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and GRE and loves advising students on how to excel in high school.

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What does the Writing Sample include?

The SSAT writing sample section varies based on the test level.

Elementary (Grades 3-4) ‍ The writing sample gives students a chance to express themselves by writing a response to a picture prompt. The student is asked to tell a story about an image that includes a beginning, middle, and end.

Middle (Grades 5-7) Students will write an essay choosing between a creative story starter or a personal question prompt.

‍ Upper (Grades 8-11) Student will write an essay choosing between a personal or general question prompt.

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Ssat essay: here’s everything you need to know.

Posted on December 7th, 2022 by Allison . Posted in SAT Test Prep , SAT tutoring - 0 Comments

Although the  Upper Level SSAT essay is not scored, it is still important to do your very best, as it will be sent to the schools to which you are applying. Practicing ahead of time with some essay prompts is a good idea. The SSAT includes a 25-minute Writing Sample of one to two pages in length. Upper Level SSAT students will be asked to choose between writing a story and writing an essay in response to a question. The essay topics tend to be broad and varied. In some cases, you will be asked to take a side on an issue (in other words, you will be asked to write a persuasive essay). In some cases, you will be asked to offer a description or show cause and effect (in other words, you will be asked to write an informative essay).

Although the Writing Sample will not affect your SSAT score, admissions officers consider your Writing Sample an important component of your application. They will look for a strong writing style free from spelling, punctuation, and grammar mistakes. They will also try to get a sense of who you are as a person. With this in mind, choose subjects you would be comfortable talking about during an interview with a principal or admissions officer. Avoid overly dark, violent, or inappropriate subject matter.

The Upper Level SSAT Essay requires students to write either a short story or an essay in twenty-five minutes. The essay topics tend to be broad and varied. In some cases, you will be asked to take a side on an issue (in other words, you will be asked to write a persuasive essay). In some cases, you will be asked to offer a description or show cause and effect (in other words, you will be asked to write an expository essay). Two sentences will be provided, and students are asked to select the sentence they find most interesting and use it as the basis for an essay or a story.

SSAT Essay General Tips:

Make sure your writing appropriately responds to the topic. Does the essay topic require you to take a position on an issue (persuasive essay)? Does it ask you to show cause and effect (expository essay)? Does the topic ask you describe or characterize some subject or topic (expository essay)? Are you being asked to tell a story (creative writing)? If you are writing an essay, make sure you have a clear introductory paragraph, two or three body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph. If you are writing a story, make sure your short story has a clear beginning, middle, and end. Budget your time! Make sure to save time at the end to edit for spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

Persuasive Essay Tips:

Persuasive writing requires you to argue for or against an idea; to take a side on an issue; to urge the reader to behave a certain way; or to urge the reader to agree to a certain position on an issue. Take a side. Don’t sit on the fence. Use concrete examples from history, literature, current events, or personal experience to support your position. Right before you conclude your essay, consider writing a counterargument: – In a counterargument, you present an opposing view and then show why it is not as strong as the view you have been presenting. – Imagine an intelligent skeptic reading your essay.

Creative Writing Tips:

Decide what point of view you will use and stick to it! Sometimes the point of view is established by the sentence provided: – First person uses “I”: “I couldn’t believe my eyes.” – Third person uses “he”, “she”, “it”, “they”: “He couldn’t believe his eyes.” Decide what tense you will use for your story and stick to it! Sometimes the tense is established by the sentence provided: – Past tense: I saw, I went, I did. – Present tense (rarer and more difficult to maintain): I see, I go, I do. Establish the setting of your story using vivid description involving sight, smell, taste, touch, and sound. In your first paragraph, establish the conflict. – Conflict is the problem, difficulty, or challenge facing the main character. Every story should have a clear beginning, middle, and end (in other words, rising action, climax, falling action, and conclusion).

Expository Writing:

If you are asked to define something, provide your definition or explanation and then support your definition or explanation with details or examples from history, literature, current events, or personal experience. If you are asked to offer a description, think of two or three important qualities that you would like to discuss. – Make sure you choose a subject about which you are familiar. – Be as detailed as possible. When writing to establish cause and effect, establish the cause, define the effects, and offer solutions or explanations for why this is so.

Essay Prompts

You have twenty-five minutes to complete each writing sample. Here’s a list of essay prompts with which to practice:

Schools would like to get to know you better through an essay or story using one of the two topics below. Please select a topic you find most interesting and fill in the circle next to the topic you choose.

Short Essay Topics: Topic: He would have to try again. Topic: It was the biggest challenge she would have to face.

Expository Essay Topics Topic: What three qualities define a good student? Topic: What is the most important issue facing the world today and what would you do to contribute to solving this issue?

Persuasive Essay Topics: Topic: Is it more important to learn from mistakes or successes? Topic: Which are more important, arts and music or sports and athletics?

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