GMAS English Language Arts 2

Question 1

A student reads a passage about climate change and wants to identify the author's central claim. Which element best signals the central claim?

Accepted Answer

A repeated idea supported by evidence throughout the text

Answer

The central claim is the main argument the author consistently supports with evidence across the entire text.

Question 2

Which sentence uses correct subject-verb agreement?

Accepted Answer

The list of items was checked twice.

Answer

'List' is the subject, which is singular, so it takes the singular verb 'was.'

Question 3

In an argumentative essay, what is the primary purpose of acknowledging a counterclaim?

Accepted Answer

To demonstrate the writer has considered opposing views and can refute them

Answer

Addressing counterclaims shows critical thinking and strengthens the writer's credibility by demonstrating awareness of other perspectives.

Question 4

Read this sentence: 'The old house, which had stood for over a century, was finally demolished.' What does the underlined clause tell the reader?

Accepted Answer

Additional information about the house's age

Answer

The nonrestrictive clause 'which had stood for over a century' adds descriptive detail about how long the house had existed.

Question 5

A poet writes: 'The wind whispered secrets through the trees.' What literary device is used?

Accepted Answer

Personification

Answer

Personification gives the wind human qualities—specifically the ability to whisper and keep secrets.

(GMAS) Georgia Milestones Assessment System Practice Test