Apply Reading Standards to Literary Nonfiction Practice Test

W.7.9.b (apply reading standards to literary nonfiction): Students read an excerpt from a personal essay about school start times. In the excerpt, the author argues, “Middle school should start later because teens’ brains are still developing,” and then includes: “A 2019 district report showed tardies dropped 18% after a pilot later start,” plus a quote from a pediatrician.

Jamal’s paragraph: “The author is basically saying school is too early. He talks about teens and being tired and then gives some facts. I agree because I’m tired too. The essay is convincing.”

Which evaluation best matches how well Jamal applies grade 7 reading standards to literary nonfiction (claims vs. evidence and author’s craft)?

W.7.9.b (textual evidence in analysis): Students read a narrative nonfiction article about a wildfire. The author uses a repeated phrase—“the wind kept changing”—at the end of three different paragraphs to show unpredictability.

Maya writes two sentences: “The author’s writing is dramatic. The author uses repetition to make it more intense.”

Which revision best improves Maya’s analysis by adding specific textual evidence and explaining author’s craft?