In this section, we break down some different kinds of short answer questions including:

• Head Questions
• Heart Questions
• The Summary Paragraph

We also cover some tips for general paragraph writing.

Short Answer Checklist

Does your short answer paragraph...

• Have a topic sentence
• Have a concluding sentence
• Use specific supporting details
• Use the PEE (point, example, explain) to work the supporting details into the paragraph
• Answer the question that was asked
• Fully answer the question (e.g. doesn't leave anything out, answers all parts of the question, goes far enough with details and ideas, isn't too obvious or simple, etc.)
• Use an appropriate tone
• Have minimal spelling/grammar errors

Tips for the Summary Paragraph:

Topic Sentences/First Sentence:

• The OSSLT asks that you “state a main idea of this selection.”
• Consider using a sentence starter, such as: “The main idea of the article is…” or “The author’s main idea is…”
• The sentence starters help you get away from copying and move into analysis.

Body/PEEs:

• The OSSLT asks that you “provide one specific detail” to support your opinion about the main idea.
• The middle of your paragraph should give points, examples/evidence, and explanations.
• Consider using a sentence starter, such as: “The author explains this by….”
• In the OSSLT, you should plan the number of points, examples, and explanations to fill the amount of space given. In class, you should provide as many supporting points as indicated by their teacher.

Conclusion:

• Reiterate your opinion or your main idea.
• Consider using starters, such as “Overall”, “In summary”, “In conclusion”, “To reiterate”, “For this reason”, or “An examination of these points show…”.