<p>So I'm one of the lucky ones that hasn't met the basic writing req's yet (got a 660 on the SATI, twenty below the freaking cut off). They want me to take the Writing Placement exam on the 13th.</p>
<p>I'm pretty sure that I passed my Language AP with at least a 3, which would fulfill the writing req. Of course, we don't get our grades untill mid-July, so untill then theres no way to actually know for sure if I passed it. What I'm wondering, is if its worth it to take the Writing Placement exam just as extra insurance. Normally, I wouldn't really care, but this test will be cutting hours of my weekend, and also cost a hefty $65... all for something that is probably superfluous. They seem kinda wishy-washy about when you HAVE to take it... they say if you miss the one in May, there will be another when you actually go to Berkeley. </p>
<p>Anyone else in this position, or have advice?</p>
<p>that writing test was the worst day of my life. I got into a car accident, my girlfriend left me, and i STILL ended up having to take CollegeWriting1a...</p>
<p>then again, that's besides the point. college writing taught me how to write like never before. if you don't pass out of it, think of it as blessing in disguise.</p>
<p>still, you don't have to take r1a your first semester. you CAN take it later, as well as that writing test. i say, don't trip, and enjoy that saturday...</p>
<p>I really don't want to take the lower writing class though... I consider myself a decent enough writer, so its not like I need extra help or anything. I guess I'll just take the test.</p>
<p>What is it like? Is it like an SAT/AP style exam with passages and questions... or essay based... or a mix, or what? How tough? Thanks for the input, and sorry that was a sucky day for you.</p>
<p>Its an analytical writing sample--critically analyze a passage. One essay, write as much as you need to get your point across. They're looking for structure and flow. So you got a thesis, your topic sentences relate to your thesis, you got textual support in context, you got an original argument with original commentary, and you don't use any form of the word "got." That's basically it. If you got it, you got it.</p>
<p>"Its an analytical writing sample--critically analyze a passage. One essay, write as much as you need to get your point across. They're looking for structure and flow. So you got a thesis, your topic sentences relate to your thesis, you got textual support in context, you got an original argument with original commentary, and you don't use any form of the word "got." That's basically it. If you got it, you got it."</p>
<p>Dude you're a brilliant writer; just like how I hate adverbs wholeheartedly. I worship you whoever you are.</p>