You will be given two passages to read. Study each carefully, noting the similarities between the two. The essay portion will come after the multiple choice.
From the two passages you will have to establish a "controlling idea," a theme or point of view that is common to both. Use what you have jotted down previously, making sure you've taken note of any situation or dialogue that supports this claim.
Before you begin writing your essay, prepare an outline. This enables you to organize your thoughts for a more coherent paper. Follow the basic essay structure: introduction, body and conclusion.
In your introduction, generally describe the two pieces you have read. At the end you will write your thesis statement: what you feel is the controlling idea of the two pieces. Your thesis statement is the basis for the entire paper, so be as clear as possible.
The body paragraphs come next. This is where you will have to support your claim as to what is the controlling idea with evidence. Paragraph 2 and 3 should focus on the first passage, while paragraphs 3 and 4 should concentrate on the second. First describe how the controlling idea presents itself in the passages. Then, describe what literary devices are used in order to convey it.
Write your conclusion.This should summarize your entire paper, beginning with the thesis. Restate your main points.
Proofread your essay. Clean up any grammatical and stylistic errors, and make sure your argument supports your thesis statement.