Sample Topic Number Five for the SAT Writing Test

According to the College Board,* you're expected to do three things in an SAT essay--things that you've probably heard many times before:

• develop a point of view on an issue presented in an excerpt


• support your point of view using reasoning and examples from your reading, studies, experience, or observations


• follow the conventions of standard written English

One way to prepare for the writing portion of the SAT is to practice composing essays on topics similar to those that appear on the actual test. Before attempting the topic that follows, you may find it useful to review our Ten Tips for Composing a Successful Essay for the SAT or ACT.

Sample Topic Number Five: Sex Education

You have 25 minutes to compose an essay on the topic assigned below.

Think carefully about the issue presented in the following excerpt and assignment.

For all the battles over funding and policies, no one really knows how sex education is taught inside most classrooms. While most states and local school districts have policies regarding sex education, very few set standards on how to give students factual information about sex or teach them to develop healthy relationships. Even fewer attempt to evaluate what is covered in the classroom, and 17 states don't even require sex education to be taught in public schools.
(Adapted from Amy Sullivan, "How to Bring An End to the War Over Sex Ed," Time magazine, March 19, 2009)

Assignment: In the schools in your own community, do you think that students are being effectively educated about human sexuality? Compose an essay in which you develop your point of view on this topic. Support your position with arguments and examples drawn from your reading, studies, experience, and observations.

* About.com Grammar & Composition is neither affiliated with nor endorsed by the College Board, and this topic has not been approved for use on the essay portion of the SAT®.