English A Review # 1

How many paragraphs does a basic argumentative essay have?

• 4

• 5

• 6

• 7

True or false? The introduction of an argumentative essay should have background statements, a clear opinion/stance and two points.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Answer: An introduction has background sentences, a position/stance/opinion and three (3) points.

Transition words and phrases should be followed by a

• conjunction

• comma

• colon

To 'paraphrase' means to

• Say the same thing differently

• shorten what was said

• change the meaning of the original

Answer explanation

Look at the picture to get a better understanding of paraphrasing.

The purpose of an argument is to

• demonstrate good writing skills

• share one's opinion

• persuade/convince the reader/listener

A counter argument is

• a view that supports your argument

• a view that opposes your argument

• a neutral view

Answer explanation

When you are writing an argumentative essay, you may add a paragraph called the 'counter argument'. This is where you acknowledge an opposing view, then set about demolishing it. This paragraph comes just before the conclusion. As a result, your paragraphs move from 5 to 6.

The example below is an example of which persuasive technique?

"According to the Daily Nation, Christmas sales are at an all time low of 20%, a further reduction from last year's 36%."

• Emotive language

• Statistics

• Repetition

The example below is an example of which persuasive technique?

"It is absolutely horrifying and disgusting that children are able to view violent images on the internet."

• Repetition

• Emotive language

• Example

Answer explanation

Emotive language is used to engage the emotions/feelings of the reader/listener.

Read the following portion of an introduction. Write out the the background sentence(s).

People every where are using cell phones daily. It appears as though cell phones have taken over our lives, especially the lives of children. That is why I believe that anyone who believes that secondary school children should be allowed to bring phones to school must be delirious.

Answer explanation

Before you jump into your argument, you should offer 1 or two background sentences that set the context for your essay.

According to the following extract, what is the person's view about cell phones?

People everywhere are using cell phones daily. It appears as though cell phones have taken over our lives, especially the lives of children. That is why I believe that anyone who thinks secondary school students should be allowed to bring cell phones to school must be delirious.

Answer explanation

The audience MUST be able tell what your position is on the matter. You must either:

1. Agree

2. Disagree

3. Show both sides of the argument.

Read the instructions carefully!! A mistake can throw off your entire argument.