Core Academic Skills Assessment Writing 4

Question 1

Which sentence contains a misplaced modifier?

A) The chef prepared a meal for the guests that was delicious.
B) The report that the analyst submitted was thorough.
C) She found the keys she had lost yesterday.
D) He read the book his professor recommended.

Accepted Answer

The chef prepared a meal for the guests that was delicious.

Answer

The clause 'that was delicious' is placed after 'guests,' making it seem the guests were delicious rather than the meal.

Question 2

Which option correctly punctuates the following sentence with a list?

A) The package contained a manual, two cables and, an adapter.
B) The package contained: a manual, two cables, and an adapter.
C) The package contained a manual, two cables, and an adapter.
D) The package contained a manual; two cables; and an adapter.

Accepted Answer

The package contained a manual, two cables, and an adapter.

Answer

Option C uses the Oxford comma correctly and does not incorrectly introduce a colon after a verb.

Question 3

In an argumentative essay, what is the primary purpose of a counterargument?

A) To contradict the thesis and confuse the reader.
B) To acknowledge opposing views and then refute or concede them to strengthen credibility.
C) To provide background information on the topic.
D) To restate the thesis in different words.

Accepted Answer

To acknowledge opposing views and then refute or concede them to strengthen credibility.

Answer

Addressing counterarguments shows the writer understands multiple perspectives and makes the argument more persuasive.

Question 4

Which sentence correctly uses 'who' vs. 'whom'?

A) Who did the committee select as chair?
B) Whom is responsible for the error?
C) The candidate whom won the vote was surprised.
D) Whom wrote this proposal?

Accepted Answer

Who did the committee select as chair?

Answer

In option A, 'who' is the object of 'select' — but since it introduces the question, 'whom' is debated; however, 'who' is accepted here and all other options misuse the pronouns.

Question 5

A student's thesis reads: 'Social media is bad.' Which revision makes this a stronger, more specific thesis?

A) Social media has both good and bad aspects for users.
B) This essay will discuss the effects of social media on teenagers.
C) Excessive social media use undermines adolescents' mental health by replacing face-to-face interaction with passive consumption.
D) Many people think social media is harmful.

Accepted Answer

Excessive social media use undermines adolescents' mental health by replacing face-to-face interaction with passive consumption.

Answer

Option C makes a specific, arguable claim with a stated reason, meeting the criteria for an effective thesis.

Core Academic Skills Assessment Practice Test

Core Academic Skills Assessment Practice Test

Core Academic Skills Assessment Writing 4