ELAR Inquiry and Research Skills 5

Question 1

Which step in the research process should come BEFORE writing a thesis statement?

Accepted Answer

Conducting preliminary research on the topic

Answer

Preliminary research helps a writer understand the topic well enough to form an informed, arguable thesis.

Question 2

A student finds two credible sources that disagree about a historical date. The BEST approach is to:

Accepted Answer

Note the discrepancy and consult additional authoritative sources

Answer

Consulting additional authoritative sources helps resolve factual discrepancies and strengthens the accuracy of research.

Question 3

What does the 'R' stand for in the CRAAP test used to evaluate sources?

Accepted Answer

Relevance

Answer

In the CRAAP test (Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, Purpose), 'R' stands for Relevance, meaning how well the source relates to your topic.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of a CLOSED research question?

Accepted Answer

Did the number of U.S. households with internet access increase between 2010 and 2020?

Answer

A closed research question has a definite, verifiable answer (yes or no), while open questions require analysis and interpretation.

Question 5

In a research paper, signal phrases are used to:

Accepted Answer

Introduce quotations or paraphrases by identifying the source

Answer

Signal phrases introduce borrowed material by naming the author or source, helping integrate evidence smoothly into the text.

(ELAR) English Language Arts and Reading Practice Test