Understanding Essays and Thesis Statements

What is the main purpose of an argumentative essay?

• To describe a personal experience

• To inform the reader with facts

• To persuade the reader with evidence

• To entertain the reader with a story

Which of the following is a key feature of an expository essay?

• It explains a topic with facts

• It persuades the reader

• It includes personal opinions

• It tells a fictional story

What is a thesis statement?

• A question that the essay will answer

• A summary of the essay's conclusion

• A sentence that states the main idea of an essay

• A list of all the sources used in the essay

Where is the thesis statement typically located in an essay?

• At the beginning of the first paragraph

• In the conclusion paragraph

• In the middle of the essay

• At the end of the introduction paragraph

What is the purpose of elaboration in an essay?

• To introduce a new topic

• To provide evidence for the thesis

• To explain how evidence supports the thesis

• To summarize the main points

Which transition word is best used to introduce a new idea in a paragraph?

• However

• Furthermore

• First

• Similarly

Which transition word is best used to show contrast between ideas?

• For example

• In conclusion

• On the other hand

• Additionally

What is the main difference between an argumentative and an expository essay?

• Argumentative essays are longer

• Expository essays are fictional

• Expository essays include opinions

• Argumentative essays persuade, expository essays inform

What should a thesis statement in an argumentative essay include?

• A summary of the essay

• A counterclaim and two or three reasons

• A list of sources

• A personal opinion

What is the role of transition words in an essay?

• To conclude the essay

• To make the essay longer

• To create a smooth flow between ideas

• To introduce new evidence