EmSAT English Flashcards

Which word correctly fills the blank: 'The students were ___ by the complexity of the problem.'

Answer: overwhelmed

'Overwhelmed' means to be completely overcome by something, especially emotions or difficulty. It is the correct word when describing feeling overcome by complexity.

What is the purpose of a thesis statement?

Answer: To introduce the topic and state the writer's position

A thesis statement introduces the topic of an essay and presents the writer's central argument or position. It typically appears at the end of the introduction paragraph.

Which verb tense describes an action that started in the past and continues now?

Answer: Present perfect

The present perfect tense (has/have + past participle) describes actions that began in the past and are still relevant or continuing in the present.

Choose the antonym of 'benevolent'.

Answer: Malevolent

'Benevolent' means well-meaning and kind. Its antonym is 'malevolent', which means having or showing a desire to do evil or harm others.

In a persuasive essay, what is a 'counterargument'?

Answer: An argument against your position that you then refute

A counterargument presents an opposing viewpoint to the writer's position. Acknowledging and refuting it strengthens the overall persuasive essay.

Which literary device is used in: 'The wind whispered through the trees.'

Answer: Personification

Personification gives human qualities to non-human things. Wind cannot literally whisper; attributing the human action of whispering to wind is personification.