What is a Constructed Response? 

Constructed response questions require students to generate their own answers rather than selecting from provided options. Unlike multiple-choice or true/false questions, constructed responses demand that students read a passage, determine an answer, and create their response from scratch, showcasing their knowledge, reasoning, and ability to articulate and write to demonstrate their understanding.

Constructed responses can vary in length and complexity, from short answers requiring a few sentences to extended responses or essays.

Constructed responses are often used in standardized tests and classroom assessments to demonstrate deeper understanding and critical thinking abilities.

Using the R.A.C.E.S. Strategy for Constructed Response

The R.A.C.E.S. writing strategy is a more commonly used strategy for teaching students how to write a constructed response. It is an acronym that simplifies the process into five easy steps. To use the R.A.C.E.S. strategy, students will:

• Restate the question
• Answer the question
• Cite textual evidence
• Explain how the evidence supports their answer to the question
• Summarize their answer

Download a R.A.C.E.S Writing Checklist and More!

This printable resource is the perfect classroom tool if you teach Reading, Writing, and how to write a constructed response. We’ve included a handy set of mini-posters, printable R.A.C.E.S. writing checklists, and even a fun R.A.C.E.S. writing strategy bookmark. 

For your convenience, we have created fully editable color and black-and-white versions of this display. Click the dropdown arrow on the download button to select the editable or printable PDF file you prefer.

This resource was created by Lisamarie Del Valle, a teacher in Florida and Teach Starter Collaborator.

Even More Constructed Response Printables!

Looking for more Constructed Response worksheets and printables? Check these out before you go!

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Constructed Response Rubrics - RACE & RACES Writing

Make scoring constructed response writings easy with printable constructed response rubrics.

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Henry Ford - RACES Writing Strategy Worksheets

Provide students with Social Studies and Writing instruction using the RACES strategy for constructed response paragraphs.

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Amelia Earhart Constructed Response Worksheet

Use this passage, second grade writing prompt, and worksheet to help students write a constructed response paragraph about Amelia Earhart.