cbest writing essay examples

CBEST Writing Samples

Below is a sample response to each of our CBEST Practice Essays . Review these responses for an example of two high-scoring essays. These CBEST sample essays follow the template that’s in our CBEST Writing Guide . Below each example is a short commentary which explains why it is an effective essay and why it would receive a high score.

  Commentary

According to the CBEST Writing Score Scale, essays are given a score ranging from 0–4. This essay would receive a score of a 4. It is a well-written example of a response to a Type 1 Essay Question.

From the beginning, the essay addresses the question with a story about an obstacle the writer has had to overcome, by writing, “We all face obstacles in our lives, but there are no obstacles that are more frustrating than the ones we construct ourselves. The biggest obstacle I have had to overcome in my life is my fear of failure.” The writer chooses to discuss an obstacle that he has constructed for himself, which is a major focus of the entire response. He clearly states his main idea and maintains it throughout the rest of the response.

The following paragraphs explore the moment that the writer learned how to overcome his fear of failure. He begins by explaining (1) how this obstacle has affected him. He then describes (2) the precipitating event that helps him make a change. He finally finishes the story by explaining (3) how things have changed since he has learned to overcome the obstacle. The story is engaging, makes sense, and remains focused on addressing the essay question. The conclusion brings the story back together with the prompt and even discusses how this event will help the writer in the future.

Additionally, the writer’s style is clear, focused, and entertaining. Instead of just dryly responding to the question asked, the writer weaves an entertaining story that proves his point. He spends just the right amount of time telling the story so that it has an impact on the readers without boring them, and effectively concludes in a way that ties the response up nicely and neatly.

According to the CBEST Writing Score Scale, essays are given a score ranging from 0–4. This essay would receive a score of a 4. It is a well-written example of a response to a Type 2 Essay Question.

The introduction to the essay presents a clear thesis, as the writer declares, “I believe that people are more influenced by their environment than by their instinctive human nature.” The writer manages to focus on proving that thesis throughout the rest of the response, using several different examples to support her position.

The examples provided in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th paragraphs remain on topic, and effectively support the writer’s overall thesis. The writer discusses (1) the impact families have on a student’s success, (2) how The Lord of the Flies proves her point by telling the story of children shaped by their environment, and (3) how people are shaped by the cultural beliefs of the people around them. The logic of these examples make sense, and even though some of the analysis the writer makes is arguable, it is still convincing and effective. The conclusion brings all of the writer’s examples together to drive home the writer’s thesis statement.

Additionally, the writer’s response is focused, clear, and well-supported. The writer’s logic is easy-to-follow and convincing, and she does a great job proving her point. There are no real errors in grammar or mechanics either, which helps elevate this response to a high score.

You should now be fully prepared for the CBEST Writing Section. To review how to create high-scoring essays like the samples above, revisit our CBEST Writing Guide . For CBEST Reading and Math practice please visit CBEST Practice Test .

How to Write the CBEST Writing Section Essays

You may feel a bit rusty when it comes to writing essays. Or, perhaps you have failed the CBEST writing section in the past.

Whatever the case may be, if you need to pass the CBEST writing section, you’ve come to the right place.

The CBEST writing portion of the test includes two essays that you have to write within a relatively short time. 

You are no doubt familiar with the rubric and the scoring criteria, so I won’t waste your time with any of that information. Instead, you and I will go straight to the meat of the matter. 

I will give you step-by-step instructions on how to write each of the essays. The first essay is personal, and the second is expository, which means it is argumentative.

So, let’s dive right in and learn how to write each of these essays on a tight timeline of the CBEST test.

How to Write the CBEST Personal Essay

First, let’s quickly discuss the main difference between the personal and the expository essays on this test.

The expository (argumentative) essay is the same 5-paragraph essay that they kind of taught you how to write in school. It is also a basic college essay in which you state an argument and support it. 

The personal essay, especially as described in CBEST prompts, is essentially a story with a lesson. This is the easiest way to approach it. 

So, in this part of the tutorial, we’ll be writing a 5-paragraph personal story with a lesson that you learned from it. I will use my personal example as an illustration. 

Our Sample CBEST Personal Essay Question

“Most people have experienced a significant challenge that changed their life in some way. This challenge is usually a loss of some kind, such as a loss of health, of a job or financial asset, or of an important relationship. In an essay to be read by an audience of educated adults, discuss one such challenge and how it changed you as a person.”

Note that any CBEST personal essay question will involve some kind of a challenge, something from your past you wish you could change, or some kind of a loss. 

Does this sound familiar? 

Every Hollywood movie is structured this way. You have a character who has a problem, and she overcomes that problem, but she has to change in order to do that.

In your personal essay, you are essentially doing the same. Your 5-paragraph structure becomes your 5-act movie. Let’s break it down into paragraphs.

CBEST Personal Essay Structure

Paragraph 1

In the first paragraph, you want to immediately answer the posed question. This will also mean that you are stating a problem that you had in the past. Describe the outer world problem.

Paragraph 2

Here, you reveal your inner world problem. This is something psychological about the situation. Think – there is a flat tire and there is a “story of the flat tire.” You also describe the situation in more detail, providing more context. 

Paragraph 3

Describe what you did to overcome the situation. This is about what you did in the outer world and what challenges or problems you encountered. 

You did not overcome the challenge yet. You had to deal with another problem that prevented you from winning at this point.

Paragraph 4

You realize that something needs to change for you to get the result. Something in your mindset had to shift. 

Paragraph 5

Describe how you finally achieved the result, what lesson or lessons you learned, and how you changed as a person. 

Please note that this structure is an approximation. You are simply telling a story with a beginning, middle, and an end. 

This structure gives you ideas of what to put in each paragraph. Use it as a reference when telling your story because each story is different. 

Also, keep in mind that if your story is somewhat simple, you can write only four paragraphs. That is okay, too. 

And now, let’s write an essay, using this template. Notice how this sounds familiar in terms of a Hollywood movie or any good story you’ve ever heard or read. 

CBEST Personal Essay Example

“One fine April evening many years ago, during an exercise routine, I made a wrong move and twisted my body in an unusual way. I heard a loud pop in my left knee and fell on the floor, writhing in pain. As it later turned out, I had torn my anterior cruciate ligament, a major stabilizing ligament in the knee. I now walked with a limp and had intense pain whenever I tried to extend my leg or when stepping onto a sidewalk. I was 30 years old, and I had a trauma that changed the way I walked. 

That injury did not just affect my physical body. I also became very stressed out about the situation. Doctors told me I needed an operation. But when I looked up the procedure on the internet, I realized that it involved cutting off parts of my leg, drilling holes in my bones, and fixing things with screws. I really did not want that done to me. But it seemed I had no other options. I was very scared, despondent, and was even becoming depressed. 

After months of looking for solutions, I came across a clinic in Europe where they treated joint diseases. It was located in a nice spa town, so I figured I needed a break from it all and had a chance to heal my leg at the same time if I went. So, I bought airplane tickets and packed my bags. I spent a couple of weeks in that town, all the while being treated at the clinic. But I saw no results. My hopes were being crushed. However, I met an interesting person there who suggested that I should look for an active way to achieve healing rather than trying to find someone to “do it for me.”

I had never thought of that before. That advice really shifted my mind. When I came back to New York, I started to look for self-healing solutions rather than for doctors who wanted to “do something to me.” Miraculously, I came across a website that taught people how to heal from an injury using a set of exercises. When I saw that, I immediately knew that this would work for me. It was a strange intuitive feeling. I called up the people in charge, made an appointment, and my self-healing began. 

The result did not come right away. The trainers taught me to be patient and keep doing the work. Persistence would have to be the key. Two months later, while doing my exercises, I suddenly realized that my pain was gone, I could extend my leg freely, and I could walk without a limp. I couldn’t believe it! I was healed. This healing made me realize that in order to achieve something, the ultimate place to look for answers is within. Nobody can do for us what we can do for ourselves when it comes to overcoming a major life problem.”

Key Points about this Essay

• This essay has 492 words.
• It is based on the 5-paragraph structured outlined above. 
• It has a beginning, a middle, and an end.
• It contains a shift – from outside healing to self-healing.
• It ends with a triumph and the lesson learned. 

Key Takeaways and Tips

Your personal stories are fascinating.

If you really think about any of your personal stories, you’ll find that there is always more under the surface. 

Something happened, but why did it happen? What was a possible hidden cause?

As an exercise, just sit back and think of one of your stories of adversity and triumph. And by following the 5-paragraph structure, just retell that story to yourself. 

You’ll find that the structure I gave you helps bring out things that perhaps you never noticed before. Your stories are dramatic and interesting. 

Every good story involves an inner shift.

Luke Skywalker can only become a Jedi if he can overcome self-doubt. 

Rocky can only gain the respect of others if he first gains self-respect. 

In my story, I had to shift from the idea of being healed by someone to the idea of taking my healing into my own hands. 

The structure is only a guideline.

You can find elements from the 5-paragraph structure in any of your personal stories. So, just use those elements you can identify. 

But try to find as many of them as you can:

• the loss itself
• the inner problem resulting from it or causing it
• the early ineffective solution
• the final effective solution
• the lesson(s) learned. 

Any CBEST personal essay question is about adversity and triumph.

If you’re asked to describe a time you disappointed a loved one, this is a dramatic story. It’s about the disappointment, how it resolved, and what you learned in the end.

If you’re writing about a personal loss or challenge, this is a drama. You started at a low point, fought through obstacles, and triumphed. You definitely learned something.

If you have to write about something in the past that you could change, that’s a dramatic story. Why do you wish you could change it? Because it was some kind of a loss. 

In other words, the 5-paragraph structure that I gave you will work for any essay prompt you get on the CBEST test.

It’s time to move on to the CBEST argumentative essay. 

How to Write the CBEST Expository Essay in 5 Steps

An expository essay is simply an essay in which you present an argument and then support it, using evidence. A simple, college argumentative essay is an expository essay.

And that is the second kind of an essay you have to write on the CBEST writing test. It is also known as an opinion essay. 

In this essay, you want to stick to a 5-paragraph structure and shoot for about 400 words. Let’s get right to it. 

Writing a CBEST expository essay is a 5-step process:

• Take a stand 
• Write the thesis statement
• Write the support (body of the essay) 
• Write the conclusion
• Write an introductory sentence

Our Sample CBEST Expository Essay Question 

“Amit Kalantri once said that ‘great losses are great lessons.’ In an essay intended for educated adults, state whether you agree or disagree with Kalantri’s observation. Support your argument with logical reasoning and specific examples.”

I deliberately chose a prompt that is very similar to our personal essay question. You’ll see that the ways we write the personal and the expository essays are very different.

Let’s shoot for 400 words in this essay. This makes for an easy way to judge how much to write in each paragraph, as I’ll show you in a minute.

Step 1. Take a stand

This is a very simple and easy step in which we simply decide whether we agree or disagree with the statement and write it as a complete sentence.

You’ll notice that most choices whether to agree or disagree are really easy to make. They kind of “beg” for either a positive or a negative answer. 

This quotation I chose just begs for you to agree with it. So, let’s make this simple decision and choose to agree with Kalantri. And let’s write out the complete main point:

“I agree with Kalantri’s statement that great losses are great lessons.”

And we’re done with step 1. 

Step 2. Write the thesis statement

The thesis statement must include not only your main point but also your supporting points. For a 5-paragraph essay, you always want to have three supporting points or ideas.

Each of these supporting ideas will correspond to a body paragraph of your essay. To find the supporting points, you must ask yourself why you agree (or disagree) with the statement in the prompt.

Let’s find three reasons why we agree that great losses are great lessons:

• Losses make people think
• Losses reveal people to themselves
• Losses usually lead to greater advantages

When coming up with these three reasons, make sure that they are different from one another. 

Now that we have our reasons, let’s write out a complete thesis statement. We can simply copy and paste our main and supporting points together and make sure they flow:

Our Complete Thesis Statement

As you can see, we simply copied and pasted all of our points together and made a few tweaks to make the paragraph flow. 

We now have a complete thesis statement that is also our outline. Note in the diagram below how we will distribute the 400 words across paragraphs. 

And we’re ready for the next step. 

Just so you know, I wrote a detailed tutorial on how to write a thesis statement , in case you want to master this skill. 

Step 3. Write the Support (Body of the Essay)

Our body of the essay will consist of three paragraphs, about 100 words each. If you know an exact number to shoot for in each paragraph, your life becomes a lot easier. 

Each paragraph must proceed from general to specific. The first sentence in a body paragraph is called a lead sentence (or a topic sentence). It is the most general sentence in the paragraph.

The next most general part of a paragraph is some kind of an explanation why we believe this statement is true.

And finally, the most specific part of a body paragraph is an example.

Here’s what an overall structure of a body paragraph looks like:

Let’s go ahead and write the body of the essay.

Losses make people think, and great losses make them think a lot. Comfort tends to relax people, and when people are relaxed, they simply do not need to think. But as soon as a loss has occurred, the person’s significance, security, or even livelihood may be threatened. To quote Tony Robbins, “When people succeed, they tend to party. When they fail, they tend to ponder.” I remember when I lost 80% of my income in the crash of 2008. That loss made me think and look for ways to compensate and establish better financial security in the future. 

Losses reveal people to themselves, and personal revelations are the greatest lessons. It is a well known phenomenon in psychology that a crisis is a very powerful way to make a person see something in her life that was hidden theretofore. This is illustrated very well in the Wizard of Oz. Each of the characters who accompanied Dorothy to Emerald City thought he lacked a quality. But by dealing with a crisis, they eventually realized that they actually had the courage, the brain, and the heart. I know that this happens in real life because it was not until I faced a financial crisis that I found out that I had the strength and courage to start again in the face of difficulties. 

Great losses usually lead to far greater advantages. Some of the most important lessons that lead to great success are not even available to human beings until and unless they face a crisis of some sort. For example, Lee Iacocca was fired from the Ford Motor Company in 1978. That was a big blow to Lee’s ego and finances. But he found a way to rebound. He subsequently went to work for Chrysler and led that company’s growth in the 1980’s. That was an even greater success for Lee, according to his autobiographical account. 

And we’re done with the body. Please note:

• Each paragraph is about 100 words long.
• Each one starts with a lead sentence, proceeds to an explanation, and provides an example.

It’s time for the next step. 

Step 4. Write the conclusion

Writing the conclusion for the CBEST expository essay is really easy. All you need to do is simply restate what you already said – in different words. That’s all.

Use the same structure as the thesis statement. But use synonyms and paraphrase so that your conclusion doesn’t sound like a copy of the thesis statement.

Just use your thesis statement as reference. Let’s do it.

This conclusion is 58 words long, which is perfect for our overall word count. And it does what it should do – it restates the main and the supporting points using different words and phrases. 

By the way, I wrote a detailed tutorial on how to write conclusions , if you want to dig a bit deeper into this skill. 

Step 5. Write an introductory sentence

This step is easy, as well. You just want to add a sentence in the beginning of your opening paragraph, in which you introduce the main point. 

This introductory sentence will be the very first sentence of your essay. To write it, you need to take a step away, zoom out from your main point and provide a perspective. 

In other words, in this sentence you explain why what you’re about to argue is important. 

Here’s our full opening paragraph, including the introductory sentence and the thesis statement:

As you read the paragraph, can you hear how the first sentence introduces your main point really nicely? 

The first sentence is just a way to “get into the subject.” How do people usually react to great loss? They freak out. But they shouldn’t, and here’s why. 

And guess what – we’re done writing our CBEST argumentative essay! It has 416 words of high quality persuasion. 

I hope this was helpful!

Now practice a little and go ace that test.

How to Write a 300 Word Essay – Simple Tutorial

How to expand an essay – 4 tips to increase the word count, 10 solid essay writing tips to help you improve quickly, essay writing for beginners: 6-step guide with examples, 6 simple ways to improve sentence structure in your essays.

Tutor Phil is an e-learning professional who helps adult learners finish their degrees by teaching them academic writing skills.

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CBEST Writing Prompts & Top Tips (2024)

The CBEST writing section is considered by many to be the ‘wild card section’ of the CBEST test due to the fact that one’s score can vary based on a number of factors as well as how lenient the evaluator was when looking over the entirety and style of your essay, making the use of CBEST writing prompts and guides highly vital in preparing for it.

This is because it won’t matter if you have perfect grammar and can write multiple paragraphs in the span of a few minutes because you will be given little to no points if you didn’t conform to the scoring criteria of the exam.

When you take the CBEST writing test, you will have to write two essays:

• The Expressive Essay – Where you have to write an essay that contains your personal opinion or experiences on the topic given.
• The Expository Essay – Where you have to make an analytical essay on the topic supplied to you.

This means that you should be careful not to mistake one for the other and make good use of CBEST writing essay samples and other CBEST writing tips and techniques as the mere volume will not get you anywhere and can even prove disastrous to your score if you try to brute force it.

How to Ace CBEST Writing Section։ Top Tips

Write your essay in five parts:.

Ideally, you should write your essay in five paragraphs, but since everyone has their own writing style, it is instead recommended that you compose your essay in five parts for both Expressive and Expository essays, namely:

• The Introductory Paragraph
• First Example
• Supporting Example
• Most Important Example

For the Expressive Essay, focus on impact:

Since this particular essay requires you to talk about a personal experience, mentioning how it affected you or changed you in some way will bolster your conclusion. Let’s say that the subject given to you revolves around saving money, you can use instances where you realized that it’s better to buy in bulk in the long run due to the convenience of never having to travel to the grocery store too often, saving you gas or transportation costs, among other things.

For the Expository Essay, try to mention statistics:

Due to the analytical format of this essay, it is almost completely vital for you to mention concrete information, recent studies, or recent national events to solidify your narrative or point

Don’t overshoot:

Apart from writing a terrible or mediocre essay, another reason why so many test-takers fail to get a lot of points in the CBEST writing test is because they try to use overly complex examples that they barely understand but wanted to use because it’s somewhat related to the subject given to them in the test. In reality, however, the CBEST essay writing section doesn’t require you to have an intensive knowledge of the topic in your essay, only enough to convey your message or point.

What is the CBEST Test and why is Essay Writing Included in it?

The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) is an aptitude test that measures the cognitive abilities of aspirant teachers in the states of Oregon and California. Math, Reading, and Writing are the three sections of the test. At Prepterminal we have created the CBEST guide and CBEST practice tests to help you ace the exam and start your career as a teacher.

The writing section was included in the CBEST test to measure a prospective teacher’s ability to write and convey information effectively. Because it is one of the three main sections of the exam, the others being the reading and math sections, preparing for it should just be as important due to how many points you can miss out on for just winging it. That’s why we have developed Math practice and Reading practice tests for you to get a taste of what is going to be on the real exam.

As practicing is the main guarantee that you can ace the CBEST test, Prepterminal offers you the actionable CBEST prep course. Our CBEST preparation course has been developed by experts and psychometric specialists who regularly keep an eye on the exam so that our content is always updated. The course includes 10 core modules and video-based modules on the reading and math sections of the CBEST assessment. These modules contain numerous question banks and practice tests for each subject or subsection, allowing you to be as prepared as you can be.

So, don’t wait, ensure you successfully embark on your teaching career and enroll in our CBEST course today!

CBEST Test Prep Course

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Created by: Michael Lerner

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Hey, I’m Michael, PrepTerminal’s CBEST Prep Course expert. I am here to help you with any questions or concerns you may have about the CBEST Prep Course. Feel free to contact me at [email protected] .

What Is the CBEST Writing Test?

How to take the cbest writing exam, example questions asked on the cbest writing test, how is the cbest writing test scored, what is the passing score on the cbest writing, be aware of first-time pass rate on the cbest writing subtest, how to be successful on the cbest writing test, frequently asked questions, final thoughts, a study guide to the cbest writingtest: & tips.

Updated November 20, 2023

The CBEST Writing test evaluates the ability to express ideas clearly and effectively in written form.

Candidates are given two writing prompts and are required to write two essays.

The prompts address general topics that are relevant to education. The purpose is to evaluate writing skills, including their ability to organize thoughts, develop coherent arguments, use appropriate grammar and vocabulary, and demonstrate effective writing mechanics.

The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) is an examination designed to assess the basic proficiency of individuals who wish to become educators in California.

It consists of three sections:

• Mathematics

The CBEST Writing exam specifically evaluates an individual's ability to express ideas clearly and effectively in written form.

In the CBEST Writing section, candidates are given two writing prompts and are required to write two essays within 90 minutes.

The prompts usually address general topics that are relevant to education and teaching.

In addition, the purpose of this section is to evaluate an individual's writing skills, including their ability to:

• Organize thoughts
• Develop coherent arguments
• Use appropriate grammar and vocabulary
• Demonstrate effective writing mechanics

The first essay prompt in the CBEST Writing section typically asks test takers to express a personal opinion or share personal experiences related to a specific topic. Test takers are expected to provide a clear and concise response supported by relevant examples or evidence.

In addition, the second essay prompt usually presents a situation or scenario, requiring test takers to analyze and present a logical argument. They must demonstrate their ability to critically evaluate the given information, develop a clear position, and support it with appropriate reasoning and evidence.

It's important to note that the CBEST Writing section does not assess creativity or knowledge of specific academic subjects.

Instead, it focuses on evaluating an individual's writing skills and their ability to communicate clearly and coherently effectively.

CBEST writing preparation involves practicing writing essays, developing strong writing skills, and familiarizing yourself with the scoring criteria to understand what the scorers are looking for in a well-written essay.

Various study materials, CBEST writing practice tests and resources are available to help individuals prepare for this section of the CBEST exam.

Prep for the CBEST Writing Test with JobTestPrep

When candidates are ready to take the CBEST writing section , they first need to register and decide which format they will sit the exam in. It will either be paper-based, online-proctored, or computer-based.

To register and take the test, you will need to:

• Visit the official CBEST website and create an account by filling out the registration form. This form will ask for personal details, contact information, and educational background.
• Select the test and test date.
• Pay the $30 registration fee (per section).
• Confirm you have received the confirmation and admission ticket. The admission ticket contains important details such as the test date, location, and reporting time.
• On the scheduled test day, arrive at the test center early, bringing your admission ticket, a valid photo ID, and any other required materials. Follow the instructions provided by the test center staff.

If you are taking the test remotely, log on and check all your equipment at least 20 minutes before the test starts.

All tests are in English and must be answered in English.

The Different Types of Tests

There are three ways that someone can take the test:

• Computer-based
• Paper-based
• Online-proctored

Computer-Based Test (CBT)

The computer-based version of the CBEST Writing test is administered on a computer all year round at a Pearson testing center .

Candidates use the computer to type their essay responses within a provided word processing software. The CBT format allows for automatic spell-check and editing features. This version typically provides a more convenient and streamlined testing experience.

Tests are available Monday to Saturday, and you sit your exam with other candidates.

Those taking the computer version will also receive preliminary test results immediately.

If you need to prepare for a number of different employment tests and want to outsmart the competition, choose a Premium Membership from JobTestPrep . You will get access to three PrepPacks of your choice, from a database that covers all the major test providers and employers and tailored profession packs.

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Online-Proctored Test

The online-proctored version of the CBEST Writing test allows candidates to complete the exam remotely using their personal computer or laptop.

They connect to the test platform via a secure online connection and are monitored by remote proctors who ensure test security and integrity. Candidates are required to use the provided word-processing software to type their essay responses.

The online-proctored format provides flexibility by allowing test takers to take the exam from their preferred location.

Paper-Based Test

The written version involves physically writing your CBEST writing topics using a pen or pencil on paper.

This format may be available in certain circumstances or upon special request.

However, it's important to note that the availability of the written test option may vary depending on the test administration and location. As this version is being phased out, availability is scarce and the fees are often higher.

If you are unsure about any of the test formats, visit the official CBEST website or contact the testing authorities for information about each format, as well as any eligibility requirements or limitations associated with them.

These CBEST writing essay examples are designed to give you insight into the type of questions you can expect in your test.

Remember that the actual CBEST Writing prompts may vary but generally revolve around educational topics and require you to express your thoughts clearly, provide supporting evidence, and maintain a coherent structure in your essays.

Completing CBEST writing examples and developing your writing skills will help you feel more confident when taking the CBEST Writing test.

1. Do you believe that extracurricular activities are essential for a student's development? Support your position with specific examples and reasons.

2. Describe a challenging experience you faced in your education and how you overcame it. Discuss the lessons you learned from that experience and how it shaped your perspective on learning.

3. Imagine you are a school principal faced with the decision to implement a new educational program. Discuss the steps you would take to ensure its successful implementation and the potential challenges you might encounter along the way.

4. Read the following passage about the benefits of technology in the classroom. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating technology in education, and provide your opinion on its overall impact.

5. Should schools require students to wear uniforms? Take a position on this issue and support your stance with logical reasoning, evidence, and examples from your own experiences or observations.

6. Explain the importance of parental involvement in a child's education. Discuss specific ways in which parents can contribute to their child's academic success and overall development.

7. Do you believe that standardized testing is an effective way to assess student's knowledge and abilities? Why or why not? Provide specific examples and evidence to support your viewpoint.

8. In your opinion, what is the most important quality for a teacher to possess? Provide specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

9. In today's society, there is a growing concern about the impact of social media on mental health. Discuss the pros and cons of social media usage, and provide your opinion on whether it is overall beneficial or harmful to individuals' well-being.

10. Public transportation is an important aspect of urban life. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using public transportation, and explain whether you believe it should be promoted as a primary mode of transportation.

The CBEST Writing test is scored using specific criteria provided by the test administrators.

It is evaluated based on four major domains: Purpose and Focus, Organization, Development, and Language and Conventions.

Purpose and Focus – The clarity and effectiveness of your main idea. To score well, you will need a clear and well-defined central idea that directly addresses the prompt. You will also need to maintain a consistent focus on the main idea throughout your essay.

Organization – The structure and coherence of your essay, including how well you organize your thoughts, use paragraphing effectively and provide a logical flow of ideas. More points will be awarded for clear topic sentences, smooth transitions, and a well-structured introduction and conclusion.

Development – The depth and quality of your arguments and supporting evidence. You should be able to provide relevant examples, details, and explanations to support your ideas.

Language and Conventions – Your use of language, grammar, punctuation and sentence structure. You will be evaluated on the clarity and effectiveness of your expression, including your vocabulary choices and sentence variety.

Each of the four domains is scored on a scale of 1 to 4, with 4 being the highest.

It's important to note that the scoring process is subjective to some extent as it involves human judgment.

After your test has been scored, you will receive a score report that includes your individual domain scores, as well as an overall score for the CBEST Writing test.

This report provides feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement in each domain.

As this is a complex scoring process, taking the time to complete CBEST writing test examples will help develop your writing skills.

The CBEST is composed of three tests. A passing score on this test will depend on the score from the other two tests.

Scaled scores are calculated based on the raw scores you receive on each section of the writing test.

The raw scores are converted to scaled scores to account for differences in difficulty across the different test versions.

Additionally, the scaled score range for each domain is 20 to 80.

A score of 41 indicates you have a basic level of competency in writing skills.

From 2012 to 2017, the CBEST subtest with the lowest passing rate on the first attempt was the CBEST Writing test.

Only 66.9% to 75.1% of candidates passed the written subtest compared to 79.2% to 81.5% for the reading subtest and 78.3% to 80% for the math subtest.

This has led to the popular opinion that the written test is the hardest one to complete.

However, it might be that those candidates that failed the written test the first time may not have properly prepared or not have given it as much attention.

To avoid making the same mistake, take the time to complete CBEST writing examples and develop your writing skills. Particularly those skills that are assessed.

Preparing for and passing the CBEST Writing test requires a combination of effective study strategies and focused preparation .

Here are some CBEST writing tips to help you prepare for and increase your chances of passing the writing subtest:

Step 1 . Understand the Test Format

Familiarize yourself with the format of the CBEST Writing test. Review the instructions, time limits, and scoring criteria.

Understand what is expected in terms of essay structure, organization, development, and language proficiency.

Step 2 . Review Writing Techniques

Refresh your knowledge of effective writing techniques, including thesis statement development, paragraph structure, transitions, and coherent argumentation.

Practice constructing well-organized essays with clear introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions.

Step 3 . Read Sample Essays

Read sample essays to get an idea of the quality and structure expected in CBEST essays.

Analyze how those candidates present their ideas, use evidence, and maintain a coherent flow of thoughts.

Step 4 . Develop Time Management Skills

The CBEST Writing test requires writing two essays within 90 minutes.

Practice time management skills by completing CBEST writing samples to ensure you can plan, write, and revise your essays within the allotted time.

Step 5 . Practice Writing Prompts

Completing CBEST writing practice tests is the best way to prepare.

Use practice prompts to develop your ability to express your ideas clearly, support your arguments, and use proper grammar and vocabulary.

Pay attention to addressing all aspects of the prompt and providing well-developed examples and explanations.

Step 6 . Ask for Feedback

Ask someone knowledgeable in writing, such as a teacher, tutor, or mentor, to review and provide feedback on your practice essays. Their insights can help you identify areas for improvement, such as clarity of expression, organization, and grammar.

Step 7 . Enhance Grammar and Vocabulary Skills

Review common grammar rules, punctuation, and sentence structure.

Expand your vocabulary by making reading a daily habit and ensuring you read a variety of publications.

You can also use resources such as grammar books, vocabulary lists, and online language-learning platforms to improve your language skills.

Step 8 . Invest in a Study Guide

The CBESTs are an important step to becoming an educator. If you feel you need additional support or help, invest in a CBEST writing study guide .

Step 9 . Manage Test Anxiety

Develop strategies to manage test anxiety and stay calm during the exam. Practice relaxation techniques, such as box breathing and meditation to help maintain focus and confidence.

What is the CBEST writing test?

The CBEST writing test is one of three subtests mandatory in the state of California for all those wanting to become educators. It consists of two writing prompts and you have 90 minutes to write a clear and concise essay for each prompt.

How to pass the CBEST writing test?

The best way to pass the CBEST writing test is to prepare. Take the time to work through as many example prompts as possible to develop your writing, grammar and vocabulary skills. Reading a variety of publications regularly will also help develop your skills.

How to improve my CBEST writing?

The best way to improve your CBEST writing is to practice and ask for feedback from an expert. Make an effort to write as many essays as possible and ask a teacher or mentor for feedback on where you need to improve.

Where can I find CBEST writing examples?

A simple Google search will yield hundreds of results for CBEST writing examples. Try the ones on JobTestPrep .

Who grades the writing portion of the CBEST?

Trained scorers read and grade the writing portion of the CBEST.

How long does it take to get a computerized CBEST writing score?

You will receive a preliminary score immediately after submitting your CBEST writing essays when using a computer. However, these scores may change after the official scoring process.

How does the score for writing for the CBEST work?

Trained scores read through and grade your essays. You will receive a raw score that will then be converted into a scaled score between 20 and 80. A score of 41 indicates a basic ability.

Which is the best source to improve CBEST writing?

There are lots of websites that can help you improve your writing skills, such as Grammarly. However, the most effective way is to write as many essays as possible and ask for feedback from an expert such as a teacher or mentor.

How do I schedule the CBEST writing test?

You schedule your CBEST writing test by visiting the CBEST website , creating an account and selecting the schedule option. From there, you will be taken to a registration page where you choose your test format, time and location. To confirm your booking, you will need to pay a $30 fee for each test you book.

What is the highest possible score for the CBEST writing section?

The highest CBEST writing score is 80.

Where can I get a pack of CBEST writing practice tests?

JobTestPrep has a variety of practice tests for you to complete.

There are also comprehensive preparation packs available on Amazon and at local bookstores.

How many people pass the CBEST writing section?

In recent years only 66.9% to 75.1% of candidates passed the written subtest. This is compared to 79.2% to 81.5% for the reading subtest and 78.3% to 80% for the math subtest. It is unclear if this is because the writing test is especially difficult or if past candidates have not prepared as thoroughly compared to the other subtests.

Remember, consistent practice, attention to the specific requirements of the CBEST Writing test, and a focused study plan will contribute to your success.

Additionally, using reputable study materials and resources designed specifically for CBEST preparation can greatly assist you in developing your skills and passing the exam.

You might also be interested in these other Psychometric Success articles:

Or explore the Aptitude Tests / Test Types sections.

CBEST Essays

Cbest essays – expository essays.

You must write two CBEST essays for the California Basic Educational Skills Test. The first of these essays will be the personal essay question.

The second type of essay that you will have to write for the test is the expository type of essay.

Click here for more information on our CBEST Sample Essays and Essay Writing Guide instant download.

For expository essays, exam candidates will be given a statement. The candidates are then asked to evaluate or analyze that statement in their written essays.

For example, prompts for expository essays might ask: “It is often said that every cloud has a silver lining. State whether you agree or disagree with this statement, giving logical reasons and detailed examples.”

For these types of essays on the test, you will write about some kind of issue, and you will often be asked to take a side or state an opinion.

Expository essays are also referred to as analytical essays or argumentative essays.

The best tip we can give you for writing expository essays is to use the third person. In other words, avoid using the word “you.” CBEST examiners have commented that the use of the word “you” in essays makes them feel that they are being told what to do.

Remember that expository essays, as well as personal essays, are graded on the following criteria:

• Focus on task
• Organization
• Supporting detail
• Word choice and usage
• Grammar and mechanics
• Style and tone

If you pass only one of the essays, you will need to re-take the entire writing section of the test, in which case you will have to write both essays again.

Our Guide to Writing CBEST Essays can help!

Click here to download our CBEST Essay Writing Guide .

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How to Prepare for the CBEST Writing Test (With CBEST Writing Examples)

The California Basic Educational Skills Test or the CBEST is one of the credentials aspiring teachers in the state should get. It is available for test takers all year round, and can even be retaken as many times as needed.

One of the three sections of the CBEST is the Writing portion, which unlike the other two subjects, is not in a  multiple-choice format . Beyond basic grammar and language skills, this test challenges test takers to prove their competency in creating and organizing arguments. If you are worried about not getting a passing score in this section, we are here to help you prepare and improve.

Table of Contents

CBEST Writing Structure

The CBEST Writing portion is offered by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) to qualified individuals who want to be teachers or want to apply to certain positions in the education system. It is one of the qualifications that cover basic requirements in the state. The CTC website offers in-depth information about the test.

The CBEST consists of three sections:

• Reading – 50 multiple choice items, 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Math – 50 multiple choice items, 2 hours
• Writing – 2 essays, 1 hour and 30 minutes

For the Writing section, test takers will be given two topics: first about a given situation or statement to analyze, and the second about a specific personal experience and their reflections on this.

The most important part to remember about the Writing section is that there are certain rubrics or standards your essays will be graded over:

• Rhetorical Force : the overall cohesiveness of the essay in relation with the central or main idea, as well as the quality of the writer’s ideas
• Organization : the clarity of the writing and the logical sequence of the writer’s ideas
• Support and Development : the relevant and proper use of the supporting statements in the essay and how it flows or develops down the line
• Usage : the use of proper terminologies and precision in word choice
• Structure and Conventions : the proper use of grammar, language, syntax, paragraph structure, sentence structure, and mechanics (e.g., spelling, punctuation, capitalization)
• Appropriateness : the extent to which the writer addresses the topic and uses language and style appropriate to the given audience and purpose

Try to not worry too much about word count, although an ideal length would be around 300-500 words. Write only about the topics or prompts presented and make sure the main idea is supported by the rest of the essay.

CBEST Writing Test Examples

The following are sample CBEST Writing Test prompts you can start with:

• Steve Jobs once said, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” In an essay to be read by an audience of educated adults, state whether you agree or disagree with Jobs. Support your position with logical arguments and specific examples.

For this writing prompt, you can begin on whether or not you disagree with the quote, to introduce the main idea of your essay. You should then follow this up with at least three strong supporting ideas, such as the role of passion in innovation, how it brings out the best and the creativity in people, and if you can, give an example of other famous personalities who are known to be passionate with their work. End the essay by reiterating your stand on the quote and a closing sentence that summarizes everything.

• Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? “The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it.” Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.
• Explore the role of history in promoting empathy and understanding among individuals and communities. Discuss how learning about the past fosters tolerance and helps bridge cultural divides.

For this writing prompt, begin with stating your main idea, which is how history promotes empathy in people, no matter the race, age, or nationality. You can support this by talking about significant cultural events that have brought out the best in people, bringing them together amidst tragedy or adversities. Follow up with how history helps us remember as people, and how it reminds us that no matter what age or era we are all humans who survived because we learned how to help each other. Add other strong points that support the main idea and end with an inspiring closing sentence.

• Explore a course where the content was particularly complex or demanding. Describe the specific challenges you encountered in understanding and mastering the material, and discuss the strategies you utilized to enhance your comprehension and performance.
• Reflect on the role of extracurricular activities in a student’s educational experience. Discuss the benefits of participating in extracurricular activities and how they contribute to a student’s personal growth and development.

For this prompt, open with your main idea, which is the main benefit of extracurricular activities. As an educator, draw from your personal experience and observations to use these for your supporting statements. You can talk about different extracurricular activities and how they helped you or a student come out of their shell. List down benefits of physical activities without making generalizations. End your essay by reiterating your main argument.

You can get more free sample prompts and premium CBEST Prep Packs over at our partners at JobTestPrep !

How to Interpret the CBEST Writing Test Score

Unlike the Reading and Math Sections of the CBEST which are in multiple choice format, the Writing Section has scorers who will read and evaluate each of your responses using the standard set of criteria mentioned earlier. You will get a score anywhere between 4 and 16, which are then scaled to provide a more accurate representation of the student’s performance, with an average range of 20 to 80.

The official CBEST Test Results Information provides an official writing score scale and description, with 1 being an “inadequately formed writing sample that fails to communicate a message to the specified audience” and 4 as “a well-formed writing sample that effectively communicates a whole message to the specified audience.” This diagnostic scoring will also be provided to you when you receive your results, and will help you see where you excel and where you might be lacking, in case you have to retake this section of the CBEST.

How to Prepare for the CBEST Writing Section

Writing is not for everyone, but with enough practice, you can learn to write well enough to get a high score in the CBEST Writing Test. Here are some tips on how to prepare:

• Begin with the official CBEST Writing Practice Test . This is the best way to begin your practice writing sessions. The practice test provides prompts and a writing sheet, as well as the official guide to scoring to remind you where to focus.
• Remember: the first draft is the most important. Not everyone likes writing, and some even find it daunting. For the Writing section, practice by writing and using test prep packs. Begin with a simple outline, and then get to writing. Avoid second-guessing every sentence and focus on writing your thoughts down first. Once you finish, then you can reorganize your thoughts, flesh out some ideas, and of course proofread to weed out mechanical errors.
• Review the Rubric. Focus on the scoring standards so you know which aspects of the essay to prioritize, which are mainly the structure, the contents, and the mechanical aspects. Don’t try to use words you are not sure of the meaning of just to “sound smarter.” Don’t add more words and sentences for the sake of length, but don’t try to write it too short either. The official writing practice test shows the sample responses with their respective scoring to give you a basis.
• Keep on Writing. There’s no better way to improve than using writing prompts to keep you going. Practice organizing your thoughts and ask for feedback from friends, mentors, and colleagues. Write about your day at work, an article you just read, or a movie you just saw.
• Read to Improve. Learn about new topics, discover how other writers flesh out their ideas, and see how they open or close their essays by reading. This will also help you expand your own vocabulary and strengthen your mental capacity to take on any writing prompt when the test day arrives.

Make sure you prepare for the day of the test and arrive at the testing center or login on your computer early! Shake off the nerves and know that you can ace this section.

The Write Way

The Writing Section of the CBEST challenges test takers on their abilities to analyze situations and talk about their stands or personal experiences in essay form. It tests their capacities to provide solid supporting arguments and their critical thinking abilities as well, which is important in becoming a good-quality educator.

Preparing for this section of the CBEST may sound difficult because you won’t know the prompts or questions until the day of the test, but sharpening your technical skills and using practice packs will definitely help. Keep in mind the scoring rubrics to focus and organize your essay and you will get that passing score in no time. Good luck!

Sarah is an accomplished educator, researcher and author in the field of testing and assessment. She has worked with various educational institutions and organisations to develop innovative evaluation methods and enhance student learning. Sarah has published numerous articles and books on assessment and learning. Her passion for promoting equity and fairness in the education system fuels her commitment to sharing insights and best practices with educators and policymakers around the world.

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Free CBEST Practice Tests

Use our CBEST practice tests (updated for 2023) to prepare for your upcoming California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST). The CBEST exam is intended to measure basic math, reading, and writing skills of students who want to be educators in California.

The CBEST consists of 50 multiple choice questions on math and reading topics as well as two written essays.

Reviewing real CBEST questions and answers is the best way to study for your California teacher credential exam. All of our practice tests include answer explanations and automatic scoring.

Summary: Try one of our free CBEST practice tests below. See how much you already know. 

CBEST Practice Tests

Cbest math practice tests.

• CBEST Math Practice Quiz 1
• CBEST Math Practice Quiz 2
• CBEST Math Practice Quiz 3

CBEST Reading Practice Tests

• CBEST Reading Practice Quiz 1
• CBEST Reading Practice Quiz 2
• CBEST Reading Practice Quiz 3

Test-Guide.com’s sample CBEST questions are an excellent way to study for your upcoming  exams. Our sample tests require no registration (or payment!). The questions are categorized based on the CBEST test outline and are immediately scored at the end of the quiz. 

Once you are finished with the quiz, you will be presented with a score report which includes a complete rationale (explanation) for every question you got wrong. We will be adding more sample test questions in the near future, so please come back often. 

If you like these CBEST practice questions, please make sure to share this resource with your friends and colleagues.

Other CBEST Resources

In preparing for your CBEST certification exam, you may find these resources helpful:

CBEST Practice Test Benefits

There are many benefits of preparing for your CBEST exam with practice tests.  Studying for your test using sample questions is one of the most effective study practices you can use.  The advantages of using sample CBEST tests include:

• Concentrating Your Study – As you take more and more sample tests you begin to get a feel for the topics that you know well and the areas that you are weak on.  Many students waste a lot of valuable study time by reviewing material that they are good at (often because it is easier or makes them feel better).  The most effective way to study is to concentrate on the areas that you need help on.
• Understanding the Test Format – Every standardized test has its own unique format.  As you take practice CBEST tests you will become comfortable with the format of the actual test.  Once the test day arrives you will have no surprises!
• Increasing Your Speed – The CBEST exam has an overall time limit of 4 hours.  Although most students who take the CBEST feel that there is sufficient time, taking the CBEST practice tests with self-imposed timers help you budget your time effectively.

CBEST Exam Overview

The CBEST Exam covers the following areas:

Mathematics

The CBEST Math subtest consists of 50 multiple choice questions. The questions are presented as word problems and will ask you to solve mathematical problems. 

Calculators are not allowed on the CBEST math test. The topics on the math test include:

• Estimation, measurement and statistical principles (approximately 15 questions)
• Numerical and graphic relationships (approximately 17-18 questions)
• Computation and problem solving (approximately 17-18 questions)

The CBEST Reading subtest consists of 50 multiple choice questions. Students are presented with written passages, tables, and graphs and expected to understand analyze their content and intent. 

All information for the questions are provided in the passages – no questions require outside knowledge. The skills assessed in the reading passage include:

• Critical analysis and evaluation (approximately 20 questions)
• Comprehension and research skills (approximately 30 questions)

In the CBEST Writing test you will be expected to write two essays. You will be presented with two topics. One essay will require you to write an analysis of a given situation or statement. 

The other essay will ask you to write on a specific personal experience.  Neither essay requires you to demonstrate any specialized knowledge.

CBEST Test Administration and Test Dates

The CBEST is given as a computer-based test.

The CBEST computer-based test is given year-round by appointment. Appointments can be made Monday through Saturday, excluding some holidays. Seating is limited and appointments are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

The computer test has a 4 hour time limit to complete all three sections. This time limit includes 15 minutes that are required to complete a nondisclosure agreement and tutorial.

The CBEST computer test will cost you $102 ($41 registration fee plus a $61 computer based test service fee)

CBEST Scores

Each of the three sections (i.e., Reading, Writing, and Math) have a scaled score that ranges from 20 to 80. A passing score for each section is 41. The score for the entire test is calculated by adding the individual test scores from the three sections. 

A  passing score for the entire CBEST is 123. You must, however, also score at least a 37 on each individual test for you to pass the CBEST.

How can I pass my CBEST test?

One of the best ways to prepare for the CBEST is by taking a  free CBEST practice test . At Test-Guide, we offer numerous free practice tests to help you succeed!

How much does a CBEST test cost?

The  CBEST  will cost applicants a total of $102 – $41 for a registration fee and $61 for a computer based test service fee.

What is the CBEST?

CBEST  stands for California Basic Education Skills Test. This test is for those who want to be educators in the state of California. The test measures basic math, reading, and writing skills.

• Authored By: Dave Evangelisti
• Last Updated June 24, 2023

CBEST Essay Writing Test Tips - Page one.

Below are a few tips to help you with the writing portion of the CBEST Test.

Since you can take the test in person or on computer, some parts of these tips can be adjusted.

Use the blank spots in your test book for scratch paper. If you are only taking the writing, perhaps you can do a whole rough draft before copying it over. I would certainly advise doing a rough draft of the opening paragraph.

You are not writing a term paper for a college class. You do not have to be technical, but use a variety of words.

Be neat! If someone has trouble reading your work, do you think it will pass?

Practice writing in cursive using a pencil. Don't we use pens for almost everything? You would be amazed at how different it feels using a pencil. Most adults have not wrote in pencil since grade school.

Find some sample topics and do some sample essays. And of course, use a pencil. Time yourself as to how long it takes.

Find and review as many sample topics you can.

The more popular personal essay topics involve a person, place, thing, experience, or school that influenced your life, good or bad. Be thinking of what and who you could use. It may include people you have hurt or hurt you, a school you liked/hated, a teacher you liked/hated, a person you looked up to, a person who looked up to you, a job you held, a position you held, a place you visited or lived, relative, etc.

The argumentative/analytical essay will most likely be on a current topic that affects teachers, students, parents, schools, children, school boards, and administrators. Topics like same-sex classrooms, computers, emphasis on sports, emphasis on college vs. vocational ed, etc. Think of other current topics that are affecting education.

For the argumentative/analytical essay, the more popular topics are on issues that relate to education today. It could be a topic that affects classroom, schools, parents, teachers, administrators, students, etc. Think of all the hot educational topics the past few years.

Limit your erasing. If you need to correct a word here or there, cross it out with ONE line and write the correct word above it. Writing over erased paper can blur words.

Make sure your essay is complete. Did you answer all questions and note all concerns?

Stick to the topic. Any extra additions had better be on the topic. Writing about something else is a sure way to fail.

Your essay should flow. One sentence should flow to the next. One paragraph should flow to the next. This will make your essay cohesive. (See the next tip.)

Your essay should be cohesive. Does it all fit together?

Make a strong opening paragraph and an equally strong concluding paragraph. Make a good impression and leave 'em with one.

When doing the argumentative or analysis essay, forget your personal feelings. Choose whichever side is easier for you to write an essay on. You want your argument or analysis to be as strong as possible and easiest to write, even if it means taking a view not your own.

You are not trying to convince the reader of anything except that you know how to write in correct english.

You are not trying to entertain the reader of anything except entertaining the thought of giving you a passing grade.

Who cares if it's boring? If it is done correctly, it passes!

What are your strengths? If writing a story is your strong point, write a story!

Don't make it too short. If your essay is less than a page, pad it!

How can you pad it? Be careful. Your extra padding should be on the topic.

a) Include personal experiences.

b) Acknowledge the opposing view.

c) Explain why opposing views may or not be valid.

Padding the personal experience essay: Write a narrative story. This is perhaps the only way. However, you need to introduce the story as THE TOPIC suggests. Don't just start in on a story. If the topic is to write about the experience you had that made you want to be a teacher, start it out with something like:

"Most teachers have one or more experiences that made them want to become a teacher. Maybe it was a favorite teacher, maybe it was a particular school or subject. Mine was an experience I had. The following story relates the event in my life that made me want to be a teacher."

[ Go to CBEST Writing Tips Page Two ]

More CBEST Test Prep Resources

CBEST Test Tips - Overall tips to take and pass the CBEST Test.

CBEST Math Tips - Read our tips to pass the math section of the CBEST Test.

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CBEST Writing Study Guide: with Sample CBEST Essays and CBEST English Grammar Review Workbook

Purchase options and add-ons.

Exam SAM's CBEST Writing Study Guide walks you through the CBEST essay writing process step by step.

Part 1 of the study guide provides an overview of the format of both the CBEST expository essay and the CBEST personal experience essay.

Part 1 of the book also explains how your CBEST essays are assessed and tells you how to avoid common errors in order to raise your exam score.

Part 2 guides you through the expository essay writing process.

It demonstrates how to structure the expository essay by using an introduction, thesis statement, main body paragraphs, topic sentences, and conclusion.

Three sample expository essays are provided in part 2, and each of them has an analysis with teacher's comments so you can understand what is expected of you on the day of your actual test.

Part 3 explains how to write the CBEST personal experience essay.

It provides tips on the structure of the personal experience essay and shows two model personal experience essays for you to study.

Part 4 contains an extensive grammar review, which provides explanations and examples of the rules of grammar, usage, style, and punctuation assessed on your essays.

Part 5 of the guide has special exercises to help you learn how to develop your sentence skills in order to write more complex and highly-developed sentences in the essays on your examination.

Each section has exercises and answers to help you improve your essay writing skills.

Please visit Exam SAM (Study Aids and Media) at: www.examsam.com

• ISBN-10 1949282090
• ISBN-13 978-1949282092
• Publisher Exam Sam Study AIDS and Media
• Publication date January 10, 2015
• Part of series CBEST Top Scorers' Choice
• Language English
• Dimensions 8 x 0.24 x 10 inches
• Print length 116 pages
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Exam Sam Study AIDS and Media (January 10, 2015)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 116 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1949282090
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1949282092
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 8.6 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8 x 0.24 x 10 inches
• #1,206 in Teaching for Tests
• #15,577 in Study Guides (Books)
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Exam SAM Study Aids and Media publishes study guides and practice tests for all sorts of standardized examinations. If you need help preparing for teacher certification exams, college placement tests, or math placement tests, please visit our website for free exercises and practice test materials at www.examsam.com

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CBEST Writing Samples with Study Guide

• Description

Get Exam SAM's CBEST Writing Samples and Study Guide PDF to ace your essay!

CBEST Writing Study Guide: with Sample CBEST Essays and CBEST English Grammar Review Workbook by Exam SAM

This is a PDF download, which you will get right away after you pay.

You are allowed to save and print one copy of the download.

• The download guides you through the essay writing process step by step.
• It explains how to write both the expository essay and the personal experience essay.
• There are five CBEST essay topics and 5 CBEST writing samples.
• It includes the 5 CBEST writing samples (i.e. model essays) with examiner's comments and tips for improvement.
• The PDF includes a grammar review guide that covers the mistakes students usually make in their essay writing.
• The last section of the download is a sentence building guide.
• It shows you how to write richly developed sentences in your essays.

The table of contents for the download is given below.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CBEST Essay Format & Question Types

The CBEST Expository Essay Task

The CBEST Personal Experience Essay Task

CBEST Essay Scoring – How Your CBEST Essays Are Marked

How to Avoid Common Essay Errors and Raise Your Score

PART 2 - Writing the CBEST Expository Essay

CBEST Expository Essay Structure

Creating Effective Thesis Statements

Thesis Statement – Exercises and Answers

Writing the Introduction 

Writing the Introduction – Exercises and Answers

Organizing the Main Body

Elaboration in the Body Paragraphs

Elaboration of Supporting Points – Exercises and Answers

Writing the Main Body Paragraphs – Exercises and Answers

Writing Clear and Concise Topic Sentences

Topic Sentences – Exercises and Answers

Writing the Conclusion

Writing the Conclusion – Exercises and Answers

Sample Expository Essay – Model Essay 1

Sample Expository Essay – Model Essay 2

Analysis of Model Essay 2

Sample Expository Essay – Model Essay 3

Analysis of Model Essay 3

PART 3 – Writing the Personal Experience Essay

CBEST Personal Experience Essay Structure

CBEST Personal Experience Essay Tips

Useful Phrases for the Personal Experience Essay

Sample Personal Experience Essay - Model Essay 4

Analysis of Model Essay 4

Sample Personal Experience Essay – Model Essay 5

Analysis of Model Essay 5

PART 4 – CBEST English Grammar Review

Avoiding Misplaced Modifiers

Negative Inversion

Past Participle Phrases

Past Perfect Tense

Pronoun-Antecedent Agreement

Pronoun Usage – Correct Use of Its and It’s

Pronoun Usage – Correct Use of Their, There and They’re

Pronoun Usage – Avoiding “You” and “Your”

Pronoun Usage – Demonstrative Pronouns

Pronoun Usage – Relative Pronouns

Punctuation – Avoiding the Parenthetical

Punctuation – Using the Apostrophe for Possessive Forms

Punctuation – Using Colons and Semicolons

Punctuation – Using Commas with Dates and Locations

Punctuation – Using Commas for Items in a Series

Punctuation and Independent Clauses

Punctuation and Quotations Marks

Restrictive and Non-restrictive Modifiers

Sentence Fragments

Subject-Verb Agreement

Grammar and Punctuation Exercises

Grammar and Punctuation Exercises – Answers

PART 5 – Developing Your Sentences

Using Phrases, Clauses and Cohesive Devices

Sentence Linkers

Phrase Linkers

Subordinators

Cohesive Devices by Category

Sentence Development Exercises

Sentence Development Exercises – Answers & Explanations 

Improve your grammar and essay writing skills with this great download!

NOTE: CBEST and the California Basic Educational Skills Test are trademarks of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and Pearson Education, Inc, which are not affiliated with nor endorse these practice tests.

• Product Code: item008
• Availability: In Stock

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