Sample writing-task prompts and scoring criteria for the Duolingo English Test's production writing section.
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- What is the general format of the DET's writing tasks?
- Test takers write short responses to prompts, ranging from a sentence describing an image to a longer opinion essay
- What is one criterion the DET uses to score writing responses?
- Grammatical accuracy, including correct sentence structure and word forms
- What is vocabulary range as a writing scoring criterion?
- The variety and appropriateness of words used, beyond only simple or repetitive vocabulary
- What is coherence in a written response, and why is it scored?
- How logically and clearly ideas connect to one another; it shows whether a response is easy to follow
- What is task relevance in DET writing scoring?
- Whether the response directly addresses what the prompt actually asked
- Sample prompt: 'Describe a photo of a busy city street.' What should a strong response prioritize?
- Specific, concrete details about what is visible in the image, described in clear sentences
- Sample prompt: 'Write about a time you learned something new.' What structure works well for this kind of prompt?
- A brief introduction of the situation, followed by details of what happened and what was learned
- Sample prompt: 'Do you think students should have more choice in what they study? Explain your view.' What kind of response does this require?
- An opinion essay that states a clear position and supports it with reasons or examples
- Why is it important to state a clear position early in an opinion-based writing response?
- It helps the reader immediately understand your stance, which supports coherence and task relevance
- What is a supporting reason in an opinion essay?
- A piece of evidence or logic that explains why the stated opinion is valid
- Why should a short image-description task avoid opinions or unrelated commentary?
- Because the task specifically asks for description, and adding unrelated content reduces task relevance
- What is sentence variety, and why does it matter for the writing score?
- Using a mix of sentence lengths and structures rather than repeating the same pattern; it demonstrates stronger command of English
- Why is proofreading a written response important, even under time pressure?
- It helps catch grammar mistakes, missing words, or unclear phrasing that could lower the score
- Sample prompt: 'Write about your favorite way to spend a weekend.' What is a natural way to organize this response?
- Introduce the activity, then give specific reasons or details about why you enjoy it
- What does it mean to elaborate on an idea in a written response?
- To add specific details, examples, or explanations that develop a point further, rather than leaving it brief
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