<p>Just wondering what they look for in the essay; what you need to get a high score in the essay section.
<p>-If you have a relevant example to back up your thesis that involves a famous play/novel, and another relevant example that’s a personal experience, I think that the famous play/novel is stronger. Others may disagree. I have seen essays with ONLY personal examples get 12s. However, I think that of all 12 essays, those based only on personal examples are probably in the minority.
-Introduction paragraph, then two or three supporting example paragraphs (two more fleshed out, or three, but those three still have to each be detailed enough to pass muster), and then a conclusion. Conclusion can be short, but best to make it at least two sentences. Intro usually a bit longer than the conclusion, and often including a thesis.
-Insightful conclusions. But what do you mean “use of techniques”? Like literary techniques?
-Best to take whatever vocabulary you have, and use it. I have seen too many kids insert BIIIG JUIIICY sat vocab words into their essays, but use them completely out of context - it makes them look silly! You can know what a word means, but have no idea how to properly use it. Only use big words if you have seen them in context (SAT vocab lists doesn’t count!) before. Otherwise, keep it eloquent, but straightforward. Graders are English teachers and generally voracious readers, and most probably will not be fooled by advanced words if the underlying ideas are weak, or if the words themselves are used incorrectly.</p>
<p>In experience the top scores go to people who show off. Use big words when a small one would suffice. fill in the two pages completely even if you have to use fluff. Also I learned that you can use an impressive title, and use your creative license to make the theme of the book you are citing fit the point you are trying to prove. Like you can say Macbeth is a story about racism and still do well.</p>
<p>Dlesk, what were your essay scores? <em>curious</em> I think what you say may be true… but not everyone can ‘show off’ successfully. Did you follow your own advice and earn a 12?</p>
<p>I disagree with the “fluff” earning 12’s - it might be possible, I suppose, but I don’t think it’s the core part of a 12 essay.</p>
<p>I’ve known several people who wrote 8-9 essays, filling in 2 pages completely.</p>
<p>the main thing is to HAVE A CLEAR POINT - to argue effectively what your point is.</p>
<p>Fill up both pages, use big words, use examples and facts to back those examples up, and you will get at least a 10.</p>