2016 MCAS
Grade 5 English Language Arts

Question 6 – Score Point 4

This response is a clear, complete, and accurate explanation of why Beckoff claims that “play is serious business” and includes many important details from throughout the article. For example, play teaches deer, elk, and antelope “running and jumping skills” that will help them avoid becoming “dinner” for other animals. Young wolves and bears “practice running, pouncing, and fighting” to help them find food when they become adults. Some animals even prepare by fighting “on rocks, or on top of a mountain,” so “they will be prepared and ready for whatever comes at them.” This response clearly explains that Beckoff believes “play is serious business,” because it helps animals learn to survive.

[ 4 Points | 4 Points | 3 Points | 2 Points | 1 Point | 0 Points]