ABSTRACT
The Unassisted Writing Sample does not include an assignment page or a word bank, but it does provide space to study the prompt, brainstorm possible responses and jot list before they begin to draft their thoughts. It also excludes a First Draft Response Form and peer-revision rubric, but it permits students to revise their first drafts in a different color of ink. The design and schedule of the Unassisted Writing Sample prepares students for state testing in any state. Yet the Unassisted Writing Sample is more than preparation for a state testing experience. The longer periods of time allow most students to elect the option of writing on a computer to use state-approved advanced organizers and word-level spell-check. The Final Evaluation Rubric for an Unassisted Writing Sample needs to be based directly on the rubric of your state. Georgia presents a separate four-page rubric for each of three writing genres.
