Lesson 2.2: MEE and MPT Baseline Writing Sample

Introduction

In this lesson, we will focus on the critical skills necessary to produce and evaluate written responses in the context of the Multistate Essay Examination (MEE) and Multistate Performance Test (MPT). By creating baseline writing samples, candidates can assess their current capabilities and establish a benchmark for further development. This serves as a foundational exercise that will guide future study and practice, ensuring that progress is data-driven.

Learning Objectives

• Produce a baseline essay and a baseline performance-task answer under time constraints.
• Score these samples using an examiner-style rubric.
• Assess your writing for organization, issue coverage, and rule accuracy.
• Distinguish between knowledge gaps and writing-structure or pacing gaps.
• Explain the main concepts and terminology associated with the MEE and MPT.

Understanding the MEE and MPT

MEE Overview

The MEE comprises a series of essay questions that test candidates' legal knowledge and their ability to analyze, synthesize, and apply that knowledge to hypothetical situations. Essays are typically crafted in response to prompts that require the identification of relevant issues, application of the law, and logical reasoning.

MPT Overview

The MPT assesses practical skills that are necessary for a new lawyer. It requires candidates to perform tasks similar to those they will experience in practice, such as drafting legal documents, analyzing case files, or providing legal advice based on provided material.

Importance of Baseline Samples

Creating baseline writing samples is crucial as it:

• Establishes a starting point to measure growth.
• Identifies strengths and weaknesses in writing skills.
• Helps develop strategies for effective exam preparation.

Producing a Baseline Writing Sample

Step 1: Setting Up Your Environment

To ensure that you can perform under simulated exam conditions, set up a quiet workspace with minimal distractions. Gather necessary materials such as:

• A legal pad or laptop for writing.
• A timer to keep track of time limits.
• Access to any legal resources that you consider essential for your response, though keep in mind the goal is to simulate the exam format as closely as possible.

Step 2: Selecting Prompts

For the MEE, choose two essay prompts from previous exams. For the MPT, select a task from a past exam that requires drafting a document or analyzing a file. Ensure the prompts cover different areas of law to get a comprehensive view of your writing capabilities.

Step 3: Time Management

Allocate a specific amount of time for each task. Typically, you will have:

• 30 minutes per essay for the MEE.
• 90 minutes for the MPT task.

Set your timer accordingly and commence writing immediately.

Worked Example: MEE Prompt

Prompt: "Discuss the potential tort liability of a manufacturer for harm caused by a defective product."

Sample Outline:

1. Introduction

• Define tort liability
• Introduce strict liability in tort law

1. Analysis of Product Defect

• Discuss types of defects: design, manufacturing, and marketing
• Provide examples of each defect type

1. Causation and Damages

• Explain the requirement to prove causation
• Discuss potential damages that may be awarded

1. Conclusion

• Summarize key points
• Highlight the importance of consumer safety

Step 4: Writing Your Response

Begin with the introduction, set the stage for your analysis, and ensure that each paragraph flows logically into the next. Stay focused on answering the prompt directly and incorporate legal principles that are relevant to your discussion.

Scoring Your MEE Sample

Once finished, review your essay against a rubric typically used by examiners:

• Organization (25 points): Clarity of structure and logical flow.
• Issue Coverage (25 points): Depth and breadth of legal issues addressed.
• Rule Accuracy (25 points): Correctness of legal rules applied.
• Analysis & Reasoning (25 points): Quality of analysis and justification.

Assign points for each criterion and calculate your total.

Producing and Scoring a Baseline MPT Sample

Step 1: Review the MPT File

Read all the materials provided in the MPT task thoroughly. Identify key facts, legal issues, and the specific task (e.g., drafting a brief or memo).

Worked Example: MPT Task

Task: Draft a motion to compel discovery based on provided materials.

Outline Your Document

1. Introduction

• State the purpose of the motion.

1. Statement of Facts

• Summarize the relevant factual background.

1. Legal Standard

• Discuss the relevance of discovery law.

1. Argument

• Present arguments supporting your motion.

1. Conclusion

• Request relief sought from the court.

Step 2: Writing Under Time Constraints

Again, set your timer for 90 minutes and draft your response, ensuring it is concise and to the point, while demonstrating your legal reasoning skills.

Scoring Your MPT Sample

Metric for scoring:

• Legal Reasoning (25 points): Quality of legal analysis.
• Document Organization (25 points): Clarity and coherence of structure.
• Relevance to Task (25 points): Adherence to the assigned task.
• Legal Writing Quality (25 points): Clarity of expression and professionalism.

Total your score and reflect on areas for improvement.

Self-Assessment

After scoring your writing samples, reflect on points of improvement:

• Organization: Were your ideas logically structured?
• Issue Coverage: Did you address all relevant legal issues?
• Rule Accuracy: Were your citations correct?

Distinguishing Knowledge Gaps from Writing Gaps

Understanding whether an underperformance stems from a lack of legal knowledge or writing structure is crucial.

• Knowledge Gap: If you are unsure about the law or legal principles related to the issues.
• Writing Structure Gap: If you have the knowledge but fail to express it clearly or organize your thoughts effectively.

By identifying the nature of the gap, you can focus your study efforts more efficiently.

Conclusion

This lesson has emphasized the importance of producing and evaluating baseline writing samples for the MEE and MPT. By systematically assessing your work against a rubric, you can gain valuable insights into your strengths and weaknesses. This awareness will guide your study approach, ultimately leading to improved performance on the Uniform Bar Examination.

Study Notes

• MEE tests legal knowledge through essay questions.
• MPT assesses practical lawyering skills.
• Baseline samples help measure growth.
• Use a valid rubric for scoring responses.
• Differentiate between knowledge gaps and writing structure issues.
• Reflect on writing quality to improve future performance.