9th/ 10th Grade English Parent Training

MAAP English II Test Overview:​ Passing the state test is a ​graduation requirement
● Session 1: Reading Comprehension
○ 138 minutes (2 hours and 18 minutes) for reading and multiple choice
○ 40% Fiction texts
○ 60% Nonfiction texts
● Session 2: Writing free response
○ 150 minutes for reading and response to a prompt
○ Two ​texts and two separate prompts
● 72 points total—60 reading multiple choice points and 12 essay points

Test Time Management:​ If you are stuck on one question or passage, mark it for review and move on.
● Session 1 (reading): ​Time is of the essence. ​Students have:
○ 23 minutes to complete 1 passage (~1000 words and ten questions)
○ 1 minute to read 43 words
● Session 2 (writing) allows for 150 minutes total. Students have:
○ 75 minutes to read a text, analyze the prompt, and write a complete response
○ The state rubric grades for ​complete ​writing organization; this means students can write only an
introduction, body, and conclusion to achieve full points for organization (if written well).
● Independent reading is the most effective way to grow your child into a faster reader.

Data (growth)
● Score levels, from lowest to highest, are Minimal, Basic, Passing, Proficient, and Advanced.
○ Students must score Passing, Proficient, or Advanced for graduation.
● The state and school have the expectation that every student grows a level from one year to the next.
For example, if your student was Passing in eighth grade, they should be scoring Proficient now.
● Consistent independent reading is the best way to grow your child’s data on all tested skills at once

Test Strategies
● “Bellringer style”
● Negative and positive connotations
● Letter of the day

Tips for Key English Skills:​ Your child should be reading nonfiction texts at home—read the news or
about a personal interest to become more familiar with nonfiction texts. Have your child explain an article
to you. This practices...
● Central idea and key details
● Author’s purpose and rhetoric
● General literacy skills

Resources for Parents

Greek and Latin Word Stems Word Stem Practice Vocabulary Practice

https://bit.ly/2NOd0q3 https://bit.ly/2HRZB1T https://bit.ly/2MPcBnH

The most consistent and low-maintenance way to help your child 

grow is to encourage independent reading!