CTBS Writing and Composition

Question 1

Which sentence is the best topic sentence for a paragraph about the benefits of exercise?

Accepted Answer

Regular exercise provides numerous physical and mental health benefits.

Answer

Many people go to the gym every day.

Answer

Exercise equipment can be expensive to purchase.

Answer

Some people do not like to exercise at all.

Question 2

What is the purpose of a concluding sentence in a paragraph?

Accepted Answer

To restate the main idea and wrap up the paragraph

Answer

To introduce a new topic for the reader

Answer

To provide the first piece of supporting evidence

Answer

To ask the reader a question about the subject

Question 3

Which type of writing is primarily used to convince the reader to agree with a particular viewpoint?

Accepted Answer

Persuasive writing

Answer

Narrative writing

Answer

Descriptive writing

Answer

Expository writing

Question 4

A student is writing a report and wants to list the steps of a process in order. Which transition word best shows sequence?

Accepted Answer

Answer

However

Answer

Therefore

Answer

Although

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the organizational structure called 'cause and effect'?

Accepted Answer

One event or condition is shown to produce another event or condition

Answer

Events are described in the order they happened

Answer

A problem is described and a solution is offered

Answer

Two or more things are examined for their similarities and differences

Question 6

A writer wants to add more specific details to the sentence: 'The dog ran.' Which revision best improves the sentence?

Accepted Answer

The shaggy golden retriever sprinted across the dewy grass.

Answer

The dog and the cat ran.

Answer

The dog ran, and it was fast.

Answer

Running is something that the dog did.

Question 7

Which of the following is an example of a compound sentence?

Accepted Answer

She studied hard, so she passed the test.

Answer

The tall oak tree stood beside the old barn.

Answer

Running through the park, he tripped on a root.

Answer

Because it was raining, the game was canceled.