ELTIS Essay Writing 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of a thesis statement in an academic essay?
- To provide background information
- To present the main argument or claim the essay will support (Correct answer)
- To list all sources used
- To summarize the conclusion
Correct answer: To present the main argument or claim the essay will support
A thesis statement presents the central argument that the rest of the essay will develop and support.
The thesis statement is the most important sentence in an academic essay. Typically found at the end of the introduction, it states the writer's main argument or position.
Question 2: Which is the best topic sentence for a paragraph about benefits of school uniforms?
- School uniforms come in many colors.
- In conclusion, uniforms are beneficial.
- One significant benefit of school uniforms is that they reduce peer pressure related to clothing. (Correct answer)
- Many schools require uniforms.
Correct answer: One significant benefit of school uniforms is that they reduce peer pressure related to clothing.
This sentence introduces a specific benefit that the paragraph will discuss in detail.
The best topic sentence introduces one specific, focused point (reducing peer pressure) that the paragraph will elaborate on.
Question 3: What is the correct order of components in a five-paragraph essay?
- Body, introduction, conclusion
- Conclusion, body, introduction
- Introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion (Correct answer)
- Body, conclusion, introduction
Correct answer: Introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion
The standard structure is: introduction with thesis, three body paragraphs, and conclusion.
The five-paragraph essay: (1) Introduction with thesis, (2-4) Three body paragraphs each developing one point, (5) Conclusion restating thesis and summarizing.
Question 4: Which transition word best shows contrast between two ideas?
- Furthermore
- However (Correct answer)
- Additionally
- Similarly
Correct answer: However
'However' signals that the next idea contradicts or opposes the previous one.
'However' signals contrast. 'Furthermore' and 'additionally' show addition. 'Similarly' shows comparison.
Question 5: What is the purpose of providing evidence in a body paragraph?
- To make the paragraph longer
- To support and prove the topic sentence's claim (Correct answer)
- To introduce a new topic
- To repeat the thesis
Correct answer: To support and prove the topic sentence's claim
Evidence supports the claim in the topic sentence and strengthens the argument.
Every claim needs support. A body paragraph follows: topic sentence (claim), evidence (proof), analysis (how evidence supports the claim).
Question 6: Which should be avoided in academic essay writing?
- Using specific examples
- Writing in a formal tone
- Using slang, abbreviations, and informal language (Correct answer)
- Including a clear thesis statement
Correct answer: Using slang, abbreviations, and informal language
Academic writing requires formal language; slang and informal expressions are inappropriate.
Academic writing requires a formal register — no slang, texting abbreviations, contractions, or overly casual expressions.
ELTIS Essay Writing 2
What is the primary purpose of a thesis statement in an academic essay?