About This Test
The English Language, Literature, and Composition: Essays test is designed for those who plan to teach English at the secondary level. The test addresses two key elements in the study of literature: the ability to analyze literary texts and the ability to understand and articulate arguments about key issues in the study of English. The test consists of four essay questions, which are weighted equally. Two questions ask examinees to interpret literary selections from English, American, or world literature of any period. The first question always focuses on a work of poetry, while the second always features a work of prose. The third question asks examinees to evaluate the argument and rhetorical features of a passage that addresses an issue in the study of English. The fourth question asks examinees to take and defend a position on an issue in the study of English, using references to works of literature to support that position. The questions asking examinees to discuss issues in the study of English may deal with such matters as the nature of literary interpretation, the value of studying literature, the qualities that define the discipline of literary study, the kinds of literary works we choose to read and teach and why we make those choices, and so on.
This test may contain some questions that will not count toward your score.