Answer:
D
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that accurately describes the essay portion of the SAT is option D: "Essays are scored on students' ability to read the passage, analyze it, and write using standard written English."
Here's a step-by-step explanation:
1. The essay portion of the SAT is an optional section, which means that students can choose whether or not to take it. It is not a required part of every college application (option B is incorrect).
2. The essay question on the SAT typically asks students to analyze a passage. They are given a text to read and then must write an essay that demonstrates their understanding of the passage and their ability to analyze it (option A is incorrect).
3. In their essays, students are expected to use standard written English. This means that they should demonstrate proper grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. Their writing should be clear and coherent (option D is correct).
4. Students do not need to submit an outline along with their essay to show that their work is original (option C is incorrect).
To summarize, the essay portion of the SAT evaluates students' ability to read and analyze a passage, as well as their skill in writing using standard written English. It is an optional section of the exam, and students are not required to submit an outline with their essay.