Reviewing parts of an essay

Front

What is wrong with this thesis statement? School uniforms are a good idea;

Back

All of the above: It does not provide reasons, it uses vague language, and it is not punctuated properly.

Answer explanation

The thesis statement is problematic because it lacks specific reasons to support the claim, uses vague language by not defining what 'good' means, and is improperly punctuated with a semicolon instead of a period.

Front

What type of paragraph is this? Have you ever wondered whether people under the age of 18 should be able to drive? There are some that suggest teenagers should wait until they are 18 to drive. While others believe that they should start out younger in order to learn more about the roads. Some considerations that lawmakers should make when determining a legal driving age are adding restrictions and tailoring the quality of driver's education.

Back

Introduction

Answer explanation

The paragraph introduces the topic of the legal driving age and presents differing viewpoints, making it an introduction. It sets the stage for further discussion rather than providing a counterclaim or conclusion.

Front

Which of the following is the best example of a thesis statement? Options: Technology is bad for society., Technology is good!!!, Technology is something that people use., Technology has both positive and negative impacts on society.

Back

Technology has both positive and negative impacts on society.

Answer explanation

The best thesis statement is "Technology has both positive and negative impacts on society." It presents a clear, nuanced argument that can be supported with evidence, unlike the other options which are overly simplistic.

Front

What is the main purpose of a conclusion paragraph?

Back

To restate the thesis and summarize the main points.

Answer explanation

The main purpose of a conclusion paragraph is to restate the thesis and summarize the main points, reinforcing the argument and providing closure to the reader.

Front

Which sentence is an example of a counterclaim?

Back

Some argue that exercise can be harmful if done excessively.

Answer explanation

The correct choice, 'Some argue that exercise can be harmful if done excessively,' presents a counterclaim by opposing the common belief that exercise is always beneficial, highlighting potential negative effects.

Front

Which sentence is an example of a claim?

Back

Fast food is convenient and affordable, making it a popular choice for busy individuals.

Answer explanation

The correct choice, 'Fast food is convenient and affordable, making it a popular choice for busy individuals,' is a claim because it asserts a fact about fast food's appeal, rather than expressing a belief or opinion.

Front

Where should the thesis statement appear?

Back

after the background information and at the end of the introduction paragraph

Answer explanation

The thesis statement should appear after the background information and at the end of the introduction paragraph, as it clearly presents the main argument and sets the direction for the essay.

Front

Which is the best thesis statement?

Back

Lebron James’s ability to score and rebound are what make him the league’s most valuable player.

Answer explanation

The correct thesis statement clearly asserts that LeBron James's scoring and rebounding abilities are the reasons for his value, making it specific and arguable. The other options lack clarity or assertiveness.

Front

Which thesis statement is BEST fit for the following prompt: Write an argumentative essay explaining whether or not it is important to laugh? Options: It is important to laugh because life would just be boring without it., Humor is a necessity to have in life since it brightens many people's days., Laughter is vital in life because it has health benefits and enables people to face new challenges., Humor makes everyone feel happy and is the key to true happiness.

Back

Laughter is vital in life because it has health benefits and enables people to face new challenges.

Answer explanation

The correct choice emphasizes laughter's health benefits and its role in overcoming challenges, making it a strong thesis for an argumentative essay. It provides a clear, multifaceted argument about the importance of laughter.

Front

Essays should only contain ___

Back

Formal and academic language.

Answer explanation

An expository essay should contain formal and academic language to effectively convey information and maintain a professional tone. This style enhances clarity and credibility, making it the correct choice.