ICAS Persuasive and Narrative Writing Questions and Answers

Question 1

A character in a story is torn between reporting their best friend for breaking a school rule and staying silent to protect the friendship. This dilemma causes the character significant stress and worry. Which type of narrative conflict does this situation primarily represent?

Accepted Answer

Character vs. Self

Answer

This is an example of Character vs. Self, also known as an internal conflict. The struggle is taking place within the character's own mind and conscience as they grapple with a difficult moral decision.

Question 2

Which of the following sentences best demonstrates the narrative technique of 'showing, not telling'?

Accepted Answer

His shoulders slumped and he stared at the floor, avoiding everyone's eyes.

Answer

This sentence 'shows' a character's feelings of defeat or sadness through physical actions and body language, rather than simply 'telling' the reader the emotion. The other options state a fact or feeling directly.

Question 3

An advertisement for a new sports drink includes the line: 'Don't you deserve the best hydration to achieve your peak performance?' What persuasive technique is being used here?

Accepted Answer

Rhetorical question

Answer

This is a rhetorical question, which is a question asked to make a point or create a dramatic effect, rather than to get an answer. The ad expects the audience to mentally agree, reinforcing the persuasive message.

Question 4

A student is writing a persuasive letter to the principal arguing for a new recycling program at school. Which piece of evidence would be the MOST credible and effective to include?

Accepted Answer

Data from a national environmental agency showing that schools with recycling programs reduce waste by 40%.

Answer

Data from a reputable source like a national environmental agency provides factual, verifiable evidence, which is the most credible and persuasive type of support for an argument. The other options are based on opinion, anecdote, or unrelated authority.

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of a 'call to action' at the end of a persuasive text?

Accepted Answer

To tell the reader what specific action they should take next.

Answer

A call to action is a directive that urges the reader to perform a specific act, such as signing a petition, buying a product, or contacting a representative. Its purpose is to convert the reader's agreement into a concrete action.

(ICAS) ICAS Practice Test

(ICAS) ICAS Practice Test

ICAS Persuasive and Narrative Writing Questions and Answers