2019 MCAS
Grade 4 English Language Arts
Question 8

The essay is clear and fully develops the central idea that Jean-François was a "seeker of knowledge." Details from the article are effectively chosen in support of the central idea, such as how Jean-François "yearned to understand hieroglyphics" and how the "fire burning in his eyes" showed his enthusiasm. The essay also explains that Jean-François was not driven by glory or fame but by his dream, which supports the central idea: he "truly was a seeker of knowledge and would not give up until he reached his lifelong goal of decoding the hieroglyphs." Ideas are clearly expressed and the essay effectively organized, which demonstrates a full awareness of the purpose for writing.

The essay contains a variety of sentence structures that show a consistent control of grammar, usage, and mechanics. While there are minor errors and missing punctuation, they do not interfere with the overall understanding of the essay. Given its length and complexity, the essay demonstrates consistent control of Standard English conventions for this grade level.