CLBPT Writing for Communication 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following best describes the purpose of a topic sentence in a paragraph?
- To state the main idea that the rest of the paragraph will support (Correct answer)
- To summarize the entire essay in one sentence
- To provide evidence and examples for the argument
- To transition from the previous paragraph's idea
Correct answer: To state the main idea that the rest of the paragraph will support
A topic sentence introduces the central idea of its paragraph, which the supporting sentences then develop.
Question 2: Which sentence uses 'affect' and 'effect' correctly?
- The storm will affect travel, and its effect on the economy could last weeks. (Correct answer)
- The storm will effect travel, and its affect on the economy could last weeks.
- The storm will affect travel, and its affect on the economy could last weeks.
- The storm will effect travel, and its effect on the economy could last weeks.
Correct answer: The storm will affect travel, and its effect on the economy could last weeks.
'Affect' is typically a verb (to influence) and 'effect' is typically a noun (a result); the first option uses both correctly.
Question 3: A coworker asks you to proofread their report. You notice several run-on sentences. Which revision correctly fixes this run-on? Original: 'The budget was approved it will fund three new projects.'
- The budget was approved; it will fund three new projects. (Correct answer)
- The budget was approved, it will fund three new projects.
- The budget was approved it will fund, three new projects.
- The budget was approved and it, will fund three new projects.
Correct answer: The budget was approved; it will fund three new projects.
A semicolon correctly joins two independent clauses that are closely related, fixing the run-on sentence.
Question 4: In the CLBPT Writing section, which aspect is most heavily evaluated at the intermediate level?
- Ability to convey the intended message with adequate organization and vocabulary (Correct answer)
- Use of highly sophisticated academic vocabulary and flawless grammar
- Ability to write only simple, short sentences with no errors
- Knowledge of Canadian cultural references in written texts
Correct answer: Ability to convey the intended message with adequate organization and vocabulary
At intermediate CLB levels, clear communication, basic organization, and appropriate vocabulary are the primary criteria.
Question 5: Which version of this sentence is most concise without losing meaning? Original: 'Due to the fact that the store was closed, we were unable to make the purchase.'
- Because the store was closed, we could not make the purchase. (Correct answer)
- Due to the store being in a closed state, purchasing was impossible for us.
- The store was closed, and therefore we were unable to carry out the act of purchasing.
- Since the store had closed its doors, we found ourselves unable to purchase.
Correct answer: Because the store was closed, we could not make the purchase.
Replacing wordy phrases like 'due to the fact that' with 'because' makes the sentence concise and direct.
Question 6: Which closing is most appropriate for a formal business letter?
- Sincerely, (Correct answer)
- Bye for now,
- Cheers,
- Later,
Correct answer: Sincerely,
'Sincerely,' is a standard and widely accepted formal closing for business letters in Canada and the US.
Question 7: You are writing a short paragraph to explain a company policy to new staff. Which approach is most effective?
- Use plain language, define any technical terms, and use short sentences (Correct answer)
- Use the most formal and complex vocabulary possible to sound authoritative
- Write in the first person and share personal opinions about the policy
- Use bullet points only, without any explanatory sentences
Correct answer: Use plain language, define any technical terms, and use short sentences
Plain language, clear definitions, and short sentences ensure that all readers, regardless of background, can understand the policy.
CLBPT Writing for Communication 4
Which of the following best describes the purpose of a topic sentence in a paragraph?