M-STEP Writing & Composition

Question 1

Which type of writing task on the M-STEP requires students to support a claim with evidence from provided source texts?

Accepted Answer

Argumentative/opinion writing

Answer

Narrative writing

Answer

Descriptive writing

Answer

Personal recount writing

Question 2

When a student writes a research simulation task on the M-STEP, what is the primary expectation regarding sources?

Accepted Answer

Students must integrate information from multiple provided texts

Answer

Students may use personal experience instead of sources

Answer

Students are expected to write from memory without references

Answer

Students should use only one text to keep the response focused

Question 3

Which element is most important for a strong introductory paragraph in an M-STEP argumentative essay?

Accepted Answer

A clear thesis statement that identifies the writer's claim

Answer

A list of every point that will be discussed

Answer

An apology for any opinions the writer might express

Answer

A detailed summary of all source texts provided

Question 4

On the M-STEP, a student writes: 'Many scientists agree that climate change is real. According to Source 1, temperatures have risen steadily.' What writing skill is the student demonstrating?

Accepted Answer

Citing evidence to support a claim

Answer

Narrative storytelling

Answer

Using figurative language

Answer

Describing a setting in detail

Question 5

Which transition word or phrase best connects two contrasting ideas in an M-STEP informational essay?

Accepted Answer

However

Answer

Furthermore

Answer

In addition

Answer

Similarly

Question 6

A student revising an M-STEP essay wants to vary sentence structure. Which revision best improves the following sentences: 'The dog ran. The dog barked. The dog hid.'?

Accepted Answer

Running and barking, the dog finally hid.

Answer

The dog ran, the dog barked, the dog hid.

Answer

The dog ran and barked and then the dog hid.

Answer

The dog did three things: ran, barked, hid.

Question 7

Which writing trait is most directly evaluated when M-STEP scorers assess whether a student's ideas are focused and fully developed?

Accepted Answer

Ideas and Content

Answer

Voice

Answer

Word Choice

Answer

Conventions