Free printable
SCR Planner and Checklist
A one-page planner that walks students through all six steps of a short constructed response, from reading the prompt to the final reread checklist.
For students · 1 page · PDF
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How to use it: How to Write a High-Scoring SCR (Step-by-Step for Students)
What's on the sheet
1. Read the prompt twice and underline the key words
Task word: explain, analyze, compare, describe, or argue?
Focus: what exactly am I writing about?
Requirements: how much evidence? Which part of the text?
2. Find two strong pieces of evidence before you write
Strong evidence is a direct quote, a specific detail, or a particular moment. Not a vague summary.
Evidence 1 · paragraph
Evidence 2 · paragraph
3. Answer the question in your first sentence
Turn the prompt into a statement. No background, no build up.
4. Explain what each piece of evidence shows
Evidence, then analysis. Say what the quote reveals and connect it back to your answer.
Evidence 1 shows…
Evidence 2 shows…
5. Tie it together
One or two sentences. Connect the evidence to your main idea.
6. Reread and check every box
- I answered the specific question the prompt asked.
- I included at least two pieces of text evidence.
- I explained how each piece of evidence connects to my main point.
- My opening sentence makes my answer clear.
- I reread my response at least once.