Kaylee Stark, 16, says she is proud of the passage below, part of an English essay that earned a B. She thinks it didn't get an A because she decided against using some of the writing conventions taught in this era of FCAT.

Kaylee Stark
Period 3
9.22.03

As Adam walked aimlessly through the field, the only noise echoing through the trees was the soft cry of Eve. Adam's Diary provokes thoughts of evolution and life, triumph and tragedy, commitment and Love. A love being born in the darkest hours, Adam's Diary expresses intuition and inevitability....

Kaylee says she would include the writing below in her graded portfolio because it illustrates what the teacher and FCAT demand. But she doesn't think it's her best work.

Kaylee Stark
Period 3
1.9.04

As 2004's president election rolls around, many new, as well as old, voters contemplate, "How do I pick the best candidate?", because after all, your choice might end up as a four-year term mistake in office. When choosing the best candidate for any government job, one must always consider experience. Do you want the fresh rookie in office, or the established political leader? After experience, you must then check out references. What party do they belong to? How have they helped serve before this election? And finally ....