Writing and Composition Flashcards

A student writes a paragraph with five sentences, but none of the sentences connect to the stated topic sentence. What is this problem called?

Answer: Lack of unity

Lack of unity occurs when the supporting sentences in a paragraph do not all relate to and develop the topic sentence.

Which sentence uses the most precise and formal language appropriate for an informative essay?

Answer: Pollution negatively impacts human health and natural ecosystems.

Formal, informative writing uses precise vocabulary and objective language rather than informal or vague expressions.

When writing a narrative, sensory details are used to:

Answer: Help the reader experience the scene through sight, sound, touch, smell, or taste

Sensory details engage the reader by creating vivid mental images that bring the narrative scene to life.

A student is writing about the importance of exercise and includes a statistic from the Centers for Disease Control. What writing technique is this?

Answer: Using evidence to support a claim

Citing a credible statistic from a reliable source is a standard technique for supporting a claim with evidence in argumentative or informative writing.

Which of the following is an example of a counterclaim in an argumentative essay about year-round school?

Answer: Some argue that year-round school eliminates students' needed rest, but research shows breaks can be scheduled throughout the year.

A counterclaim acknowledges the opposing view before the writer refutes it, strengthening the overall argument.

What is the purpose of the editing stage in the writing process?

Answer: To correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization errors

Editing focuses on correcting surface-level errors in mechanics such as grammar, spelling, and punctuation after the content has been revised.