ELSA ELSA Academic Language & Register 2

Question 1

Which word is an example of a nominalization (a verb turned into a noun)?

Accepted Answer

investigation (from investigate)

Answer

Nominalization converts a verb like 'investigate' into a noun form like 'investigation,' a common feature of academic writing.

Question 2

In academic writing, what is the passive voice primarily used for?

Accepted Answer

To focus on the action or result rather than the person performing it

Answer

The passive voice shifts focus to the action or result (e.g., 'The experiment was conducted') rather than naming the agent.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of an in-text citation in APA style?

Accepted Answer

(Smith, 2020, p. 45)

Answer

In APA style, in-text citations include the author's last name, publication year, and page number in parentheses: (Smith, 2020, p. 45).

Question 4

What is the function of a topic sentence in a body paragraph?

Accepted Answer

To state the main idea of that paragraph

Answer

A topic sentence introduces the main idea of a paragraph, telling the reader what that paragraph will discuss.

Question 5

Which phrase best introduces a counterargument in an academic essay?

Accepted Answer

Some critics argue that…

Answer

'Some critics argue that…' is a standard academic phrase used to fairly present an opposing viewpoint before refuting it.

(ELSA) English Language Skills Assessment Practice Test