Subject:

Assessment of English Language Learning

Professor:
Lic. Fabricio Ulises Chavarria Arias.

Career:
Bachelor's degree in English language.

Student's name:
Carlos Alfredo Orellana Vasquez.
Fernanda Gisselle Campos Ortiz.
Heysi Francisca Campos Maravilla.

Assignment:
Mid-term Exam

Due Date:
Friday, November 01st, 2024.
 UNIVERSIDAD DE ORIENTE
SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
ACADEMIC WRITING I
WRITING DIAGNOSTIC TEST

STUDENT’S NAME: ____________________________________ DATE: _________

OBJECTIVE: To assess students' understanding of academic writing principles, including

punctuation, connectors, paragraph structure, and essay composition, in order to identify
strengths and areas for improvement in their writing skills.

General Instructions: Please read each section carefully and respond as instructed.
This test consists of multiple-choice questions, exercises about connectors and
punctuation, essay composition, and a section of writing an essay. Use blue pen only.

Section 1: Multiple-choice questions (4 points)

Instructions: Select the correct answer for each question.
1. What is an essay?
A) A brief summary of a book or article
B) A type of poem that expresses personal feelings
C) A collection of unrelated articles or stories
D) A written composition on one subject that expresses the views of the writer.

2. What are the three basic parts of a well-structured essay?

A) Introduction, body, and conclusion
B) Title, summary, and reference
C) Thesis statement, argument, and summary
D) Introduction, discussion, and results

3. Which punctuation mark is used to indicate possession?

A) Comma (,)
B) Apostrophe (')
C) Semicolon (;)
D) Period (.)

4. What is a thesis statement?

A) A question that the paper seeks to answer
B) A summary of the introduction
C) A sentence that presents the main argument of the paper
D) A concluding remark

Section 2: Exercises about connectors (5 points)

Instructions: Fill-in-the-blanks with the appropriate connectors from the following box:
 however therefore furthermore
although consequently on the other hand
1. The research was inconclusive; ___________, further studies are needed.
2. ____________ the results were promising, the researchers recommend caution.
3. The author presents strong evidence; _____________, the argument is
compelling.
4. She loves studying history; ____________, she finds it fascinating.
5. The weather was terrible; ______________, we decided to go for a hike.

Section 3: Exercises about punctuation rules (5 points)

Instructions: Correct the punctuation of the following sentences and rewrite them. Each
sentence may have only one or up to three errors.

1. The students studied hard they wanted to pass the exam.

Rewrite the sentence:
_______________________________________________________________

2. Its important to proofread your work before submission.

Rewrite the sentence:
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3. She has visited Paris London and Rome.

Rewrite the sentence:
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4. The book was interesting however it was too long.

Rewrite the sentence:
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5. I have three pets a dog a cat and a rabbit.

Rewrite the sentence:
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Section 4: Ordering Paragraphs (4 points)

Instructions: Below are four sentences that could be part of a paragraph. Number them
from 1 to 4 in the order in which they would logically appear in a well-structured paragraph.

This allows them to gain new skills and knowledge.

Participation in extracurricular activities is vital for student development.

 Such activities foster teamwork and leadership qualities.

Therefore, schools should encourage student involvement in these

programs.

Section 5: Writing an essay (12 points)

Instructions: Write a short essay of 250 words on one of the following topics:
● “The dangers of texting while driving”
● “The increasing use of computers in schools”
● “Social media is the real cause of teenage depression”

In your essay, include:

• 1 introduction with a clear thesis statement.
• 1 body paragraph with at least two main points to support your argument and
examples to illustrate it.
• 1 conclusion summarizing your argument.

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UNIVERSIDAD DE ORIENTE
SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
 ACADEMIC WRITING I
PLACEMENT INSTRUMENT

OBJECTIVE: To systematically assess student performance on the Writing Diagnostic

Test and appropriately place them into writing levels based on their scores.

Scoring Rubric

Section Points Total

1.Multiple-choice questions (4 questions, 1 point each) 0-4 4
2.Exercises about connectors (5 exercises, 1 point each) 0-5 5
3.Exercises about punctuation (5 exercises, 1 point each) 0-5 5
4. Ordering Paragraphs (4 sentences, 1 point each) 0-4 4
5.Writing an essay (maximum 12 points for structure,
0-12 12
content, and grammar)
Total Points 30

Placement Chart

Use the total score from the Writing Diagnostic Test to determine each student's
placement level:

Score Placement
Description
Range Level
Advanced Students demonstrate strong writing skills and are
26-30
Level ready for advanced coursework.
Intermediate Students have a solid understanding of writing
21-25
Level principles but need some refinement.
Students possess foundational writing skills but
16-20 Basic Level
require more practice and instruction.
Beginning Students are in the early stages of writing
0-15
Level development and need significant support.

UNIVERSIDAD DE ORIENTE
SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
ACADEMIC WRITING I
SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT 1
STUDENT’S NAME: _________________________________ DATE: __________

OBJECTIVE: To Assess students' understanding and application of punctuation rules,

connectors and transitions, and their ability to analyze and write a cause-and-effect essay

General Instructions: Please read each section carefully and respond as instructed.
This test consists of exercises about punctuations, connectors and transitions, and
analyzing and writing a cause-and-effect essay. Use blue pen only.

Section 1: Punctuation Rules (20%)

Instructions: Correct the following sentences by adding or adjusting punctuation as
needed.

1. The dog ran fast however it tripped over a rock.

2. She said I will go to the store if you need anything.
3. My favorite fruits are apples bananas, and oranges.
4. He enjoys reading his favorite books are science fiction.
5. After dinner we went for a walk in the park but it started to rain
6.
Section 2: Connectors and Transitions (20%)
Instructions: Choose appropriate connectors and transitions from the box to complete
the sentences below.

therefore however nevertheless as a result however

1. She was tired; __________, she decided to go to bed early.
2. The weather was beautiful; ____________, we decided to go for a picnic.
3. Many people enjoy hiking; _____________, it can be dangerous without proper
gear.
4. I wanted to attend the concert; ___________, I had to finish my homework first.
5. He studied hard for the exam; __________________, he still felt unprepared.

Section 3: Analyzing a cause-and-effect essay (20%)

Instructions: Read the following cause-and-effect essay and answer the questions that
follow:

The Effects of Climate Change on Agriculture

In recent years, climate change has become one of the most pressing global challenges
facing humanity. With rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and an increase
in extreme weather events, its impact on various sectors is profound. Among those most
affected is agriculture, a vital industry that not only provides food for the world but also
supports the livelihoods of billions. This essay will explore the significant effects of climate
change on agriculture, including reduced crop yields, altered growing seasons, and
increased pest and disease prevalence.

One of the primary effects of climate change on agriculture is the reduction in crop yields.
Rising temperatures can lead to heat stress in plants, which negatively affects their
growth and productivity. For instance, studies have shown that for every degree Celsius
increase in temperature, wheat yields can decrease by 6%. Additionally, changing rainfall
patterns can result in droughts and floods, both of which can devastate crops. As a result,
farmers may experience significant financial losses, leading to food shortages and
increased prices for consumers.

Another major impact of climate change is the alteration of growing seasons. As

temperatures rise, many regions may see shifts in their traditional growing seasons. For
example, warmer temperatures may lead to earlier springs, which can disrupt the
synchronization between plant growth and pollinator activity. This can result in lower fruit
and seed production, further threatening food security. Furthermore, some regions may
become unsuitable for growing specific crops, forcing farmers to adapt by changing their
crop selection or investing in new technologies.

Finally, climate change is likely to increase the prevalence of pests and diseases in
agriculture. Warmer temperatures can create favorable conditions for pests, allowing
them to thrive and reproduce more quickly. For example, the corn rootworm, a notorious
pest, is becoming more resilient due to climate change, leading to significant crop
damage. Additionally, changing weather patterns can facilitate the spread of plant
diseases, further threatening crop health. Farmers may need to invest more in pest
control measures, which can increase production costs and reduce their overall
profitability.

In conclusion, climate change poses a serious threat to agriculture, with significant effects
on crop yields, growing seasons, and pest and disease prevalence. As the planet
continues to warm, it is crucial for farmers, policymakers, and researchers to work
together to develop adaptive strategies that can mitigate these impacts. By investing in
sustainable agricultural practices, improving crop resilience, and enhancing pest
management strategies, we can ensure food security for future generations while also
addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

1. What is the purpose of this essay? Begin with The purpose of this essay is...
________________________________________________________________
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2. What is the writer’s thesis statement? Underline it.
3. How many total paragraphs are there? _____ How many body paragraphs?
____
4. What is the strongest supporting point in the essay?
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Section 4: Writing a cause-and-effect essay (40%)

Instructions: Write a short cause-and-effect essay of four paragraphs about the following
topic: Effects of Fast Food on Health
(Analyze how the rise of fast-food consumption has affected public health, including
obesity rates and nutritional choices.)

Begin your essay with an effective hook and a good thesis statement. Include at least 2
body paragraphs with clear topic sentences and supporting details. Finish with a
conclusion restating the thesis statement and adding a suggestion or opinion.

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 UNIVERSIDAD DE ORIENTE
SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH
WRITING SECTION - RUBRIC

Objective: To assess students' writing skills by writing a cause-and-effect essay.

Evaluate Each Criteria: For each of the 2 criteria, assign a score from 1 to 4 based on
the descriptions provided in the rubric.

Total the Scores: After evaluating each criterion, add up the scores to obtain a total
score.

Criteria Excellent(4 points) Good(3 points) Fair(2 points) Poor(1 point)

Organizatio Exceptionally Generally well- Some Lacks
n and well-organized; organized; has organization; organization;
Structure has a clear a recognizable ideas are ideas are
introduction, body, structure with present but jumbled and
and conclusion; minor lapses in may be difficult to
ideas flow flow. confusing or follow.
logically. poorly
structured.
Grammar Contains no Contains few Contains Contains
and grammatical or grammatical or several numerous
Punctuation punctuation punctuation grammatical grammatical or
errors; errors; or punctuation
demonstrates a demonstrates punctuation errors;
strong command good errors that severely
of language and command of may distract distracts from
style. language and the reader; the writing and
style. shows shows poor
inconsistent command of
command of language.
language.
 UNIVERSIDAD DE ORIENTE
SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
ACADEMIC WRITING I
SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT 2

STUDENT’S NAME: _________________________________ DATE: __________

Objective: master the use of connectors and transitions to establish logical relationships
between ideas and improve textual cohesion in cause-and-effect essay, demonstrating a
deep understanding of the function of this element in the construction of solid arguments.

Summative Assignment: Cause-and-Effect Essay (80%)

Topic: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Instructions:
1. Selection and Delimitation of the Topic:

From the general topic "Impact of social media on mental health," each student must
choose a specific aspect to investigate in depth. For example:

 The effect of social media on adolescents' self-esteem.

 The relationship between excessive use of social media and anxiety.
 The impact of social media on sleep patterns.

2. Structure of the Essay:

Introduction:

 Present the topic clearly and concisely.

 Provide general context on social media use and its impact on society.
 State a clear and concise thesis that establishes the causal relationship between
social media use and mental health issues.

Body:

● Cause 1: Identify and explain the first cause of the problem (e.g., constant
exposure to idealized images, cyberbullying, social comparison).
− Effect 1: Describe the consequences of Cause 1 on mental health
(e.g., low self-esteem, depression, anxiety).
● Cause 2: Identify and explain the second cause (e.g., addiction to social media,
social isolation).
− Effect 2: Describe the consequences of Cause 2.
Use connectors and transitions:

● To connect ideas: furthermore, on the other hand, however, consequently, for

example, etc.
● To indicate sequence: first, second, finally, next, etc.
● To emphasize: indeed, in fact, undoubtedly, etc.

Conclusion:

 Summarize the main points of the essay.

 Reinforce the main thesis.
 Offer personal or social reflections on the topic.
 Propose possible solutions or recommendations.

Formatting Requirements:

● Length: one or two pages, 3 maximum

Title: ________________________________________________

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UNIVERSIDAD DE ORIENTE
SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH
WRITING ASSIGNMENT – RUBRIC

Objective: To evaluate the overall structure and coherence of an essay. It assesses how
well students´ organizes their thoughts, presents ideas logically, and uses transitions to
create a smooth flow between paragraphs.

Disabled
Criteria Excellent (4) Good (3) Regular (2) (1)
The use of
Some connectors and
Connectors and connectors and transitions is
transitions are used transitions are limited and does Connectors
effectively to used, but they not improve the and
Cohesion and connect ideas and could be more cohesion of the transitions
Coherence create a fluid read. varied. text. are not used.
The essay has a
clear and organized The
structure The structure of structure of
(introduction, body, the essay is The structure of the essay is
conclusion). Ideas generally clear, the essay is weak confusing
are presented in an but there may be and the ideas are and does not
Structure and orderly and fluid some not well follow a
Organization manner. inconsistencies. organized. logical order.
 UNIVERSIDAD DE ORIENTE
SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
ACADEMIC WRITING I
WRITING FORMATIVE TEST 1

STUDENT’S NAME: _________________________________ DATE: __________

OBJECTIVE: To assess students' ability to identify and understand the components of

an introductory paragraph, and to practice writing a comparison essay.

General Instructions: Please read each section carefully and respond as instructed.
This test consists of exercises about identifying and writing a comparison essay. Use blue
pen only and cell phone is not allowed.

Section 1: Identifying Parts of an Introductory Paragraph (20%)

Instructions: Read the introductory paragraph below and answer the questions that
follow.

Paragraph Text:
"The use of technology in education has become a significant topic of debate in recent
years. As digital devices become increasingly accessible, they are being used in
classrooms around the world, transforming how students learn and how teachers deliver
content. This essay will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of incorporating technology
in educational settings."

Questions:
1. What is the purpose of the essay? Begin with the purpose of this essay is…
________________________________________________________________
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2. Underline the thesis Statement in the essay.

 Section 2: Writing an Introductory Paragraph (30%)
Instructions: Write an introductory paragraph for an essay on the following topic: "The
Impact of Social Media on Teenagers".
Include:
• An opening sentence that grabs the reader’s attention.
• Background information explaining why this topic is important.
• A thesis statement mentioning what the essay will discuss.

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 UNIVERSIDAD DE ORIENTE
SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
ACADEMIC WRITING I
WRITING FORMATIVE TEST 2

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate students' ability to analyze and write an introductory paragraph

by identifying and highlighting its key components: the opening sentence, background
information, and thesis statement.

General Instructions: Please read each section carefully and respond as instructed.
This test consists of exercises about analyzing and writing an Introductory Paragraph.
Use blue pen only and cell phone is not allowed.

Section1: Analyzing an Introductory Paragraph (50%)

Instructions: Identifying Parts. Read the introductory paragraph below and highlight
each part as directed:
• Opening sentence (hook): Highlight in green.
• Background information: Highlight in yellow.
• Thesis statement: Highlight in blue.

Example Paragraph:
"Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing the world today. As
temperatures continue to rise, communities around the globe are experiencing the effects
in the form of more extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and threats to food security.
This essay will explore the causes of climate change, its impact on society, and potential
solutions for a sustainable future."

Section 2: Writing Practice (50%)

Instructions: Choose one of the following topics and write an introductory paragraph
following the same structure:
• The importance of learning English as a global language.
• The effects of regular exercise on mental health.

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