The English Language Arts (ELA) exam is a statewide standardized test in the state of New York that assesses students’ skills in reading comprehension, textual analysis, and argument-based writing. This handout is designed to help you prepare for the exam and maximize your success.
The Regents Exams are statewide standardized tests in core high school subjects. The English Language Arts (ELA) exam tests students on the key skills of reading comprehension, textual analysis, and argument-based writing in order to assess their readiness for college and a professional career. The exam is required of all students enrolled in high schools in the state of New York.
Key Tips for English Regents Exam Preparation:
1. Develop strong reading comprehension skills: Practice reading a variety of texts, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama. Focus on understanding main ideas, identifying supporting details, and analyzing the author’s purpose.
2. Enhance your textual analysis skills: Practice analyzing and interpreting literary and informational texts. Pay attention to literary devices, themes, and the author’s use of language to convey a message.
3. Master argument-based writing: Work on crafting well-structured and persuasive essays. Practice formulating clear thesis statements, providing relevant evidence, and using effective transitions to connect ideas.
4. Familiarize yourself with past exam questions: Review and practice with past Regents exam questions to become familiar with the format and types of questions you may encounter.
5. Seek feedback and guidance: Ask your English teachers for feedback on your writing and seek their guidance on improving your skills in reading comprehension and textual analysis.
6. Manage your time effectively: Practice completing practice tests within the allocated time to ensure you can complete the exam within the given time constraints.
7. Utilize study resources: Take advantage of review books, online resources, and practice tests to reinforce your understanding of ELA concepts and hone your test-taking skills.
Remember, preparation is key to success on the English Regents Exam. By focusing on these essential skills and strategies, you can feel more confident and prepared to excel on test day.
What is the English Language Arts Regents Exam?
The English Language Arts (ELA) Exam is a statewide standardized test in the state of New York that assesses high school students’ skills in reading comprehension, textual analysis, and argument-based writing. It is part of the Regents Exams, which are required for all students enrolled in high schools in the state of New York. The ELA Exam aims to evaluate students’ readiness for college and a professional career by measuring their proficiency in key language arts skills.
How Long Is the English Regents?
The ELA exam is three hours long. The test is broken down into three sections of varying lengths.
English Language Art Regents Exam Structure
The ELA exam is broken down into three sections:
1. Reading Comprehension (suggested time: 60 mins)
Students will be presented with three different texts: one literature text, one poem, and one informational text. After reading the texts, students will be asked to answer 24 multiple-choice questions.
2. Writing from Source: Argument (suggested time: 90 mins)
Students will be presented with four informational texts. After reading the texts, students will be asked to write an evidence-based argument using the four texts as their sources.
3. Text Analysis: Exposition (suggested time: 30 mins)
Students will be presented with one text: either a literature text or an informational text. After reading the text, students will be asked to write a two- to three-paragraph expository essay that identifies and explains the central idea of the text, and identifies one of the key writing strategies that the author of the text uses to convey that idea.
Is the ELA Regents Hard?
Many high school students find the ELA exam difficult. The texts that students are asked to read and analyze on the test can be long and filled with complicated grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. The ideas in the texts that students are asked to analyze are often conceptually challenging, too. The language on the test may also pose particular challenges to English-language learners.
How Is the English Regents Graded?
The exam will be graded according to four different areas of criteria: Content and Analysis; Command of Evidence; Coherence, Organization, and Style; and Control of Conventions.
Each of the exam’s three parts is given a raw score that is weighted, giving students the chance to obtain a higher maximum score for each section.
How to Pass the English Regents?
A passing score on the ELA exam is 65 or above. Students may take the exam up to three times in order to obtain a passing score; if a student does not pass after three attempts, they will have to submit an official appeal to graduate from their high school.
How to Get a Good Score on the English Regents?
For the reading comprehension sections, read the questions first—then read the passage with the questions in mind. As you read, underline key information.
For multiple-choice questions, cross out the answers that you know to be incorrect in order to focus on the choices remaining to you. This is known as “process of elimination.”
For the writing section, make an outline of your essay before writing. The outline should include the main topic of your essay, the main ideas of each of your five paragraphs, and the supporting evidence that you will use in each paragraph.
The best way to get a good score on the ELA Regents exam is to study with the help of an expert in test preparation.
English Regents Exam Day Rules
- Students will be prohibited from bringing cell phones and certain other electronic devices into the test room. Leave your cell phone at home if you can; otherwise, the test proctor will collect it and hold it for you. (Remember to shut your phone off when it is collected!)
- During the test itself, you will be required to use a #2 pencil and fill out a scantron. Bring as many pencils with you as possible!
- You can have water—but only clear water bottles are allowed! Otherwise no food will be allowed in the testing room.
- Every student will be required to sign a pledge confirming that they have not receive outside help during the taking of the exam itself.
How to Study for English Regents?
Studying for the English Regents Exam requires a strategic and consistent approach. Here are some tips to help you prepare effectively:
1. Take practice exams: Utilize past tests available on the New York State Regents website for practice. Simulate test day conditions by setting a timer, minimizing distractions, and self-scoring using the official grading rubric.
2. Study consistently: Dedicate at least thirty minutes of study time to ELA exam preparation every day, starting at least two months before the exam. Consistent review and practice are key to success.
3. Self-care is important: Get adequate rest the night before the exam, eat a nutritious breakfast on the exam day, and wear comfortable clothing. Taking care of yourself physically and mentally is crucial for optimal performance. 4. Develop test-taking strategies: Great preparation for the ELA exam involves learning strategies to efficiently solve problems, identify correct choices, and manage time effectively during the exam.
By incorporating these study tips into your preparation routine, you can enhance your readiness for the English Regents Exam and approach test day with confidence.
