This packet assists Michigan teachers in improving writing instruction and student performance based on a better understanding of the holistic scoring guides used for the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) grades 5, 8, and 11 High School Proficiency Test (HPST) writing tests. The packet includes actual scored student papers (released anchor papers) using the MEAP grades 5, 8, and 11 writing assessment holistic scoring guides. Teachers may use the information and the released anchor papers in this packet in planning for instruction. Also, this packet may be used with students, parents, school board and the community. The released anchor papers are annotated with explanations of the scores. Also included in this packet is background information, the description and writing prompt for each test, and advice how to use the anchor papers appropriately. (RS)