LEAP Writing Evidence-Based Claims 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When integrating a direct quote into your essay, what must always follow the quoted text?
- A transition word to start a new paragraph
- A citation identifying the source (Correct answer)
- A restatement of your thesis
- Another quote that supports the first
Correct answer: A citation identifying the source
Direct quotes must be followed by a citation so readers can locate and verify the source.
Question 2: A student writes: 'The economy improved because people were happier.' What is the primary weakness of this claim?
- It is too long and needs to be shortened
- It lacks specific evidence and uses vague causal reasoning (Correct answer)
- It does not include a counterargument
- The vocabulary is too simple for the assignment
Correct answer: It lacks specific evidence and uses vague causal reasoning
The claim is vague and relies on unsupported cause-and-effect reasoning without citing specific data or facts.
Question 3: Which sentence best introduces evidence in a body paragraph?
- I think the data shows many things.
- According to the 2022 CDC report, obesity rates among teens rose by 12%. (Correct answer)
- The evidence is very important and proves the point.
- Studies say stuff about this topic.
Correct answer: According to the 2022 CDC report, obesity rates among teens rose by 12%.
Effective evidence introduction names the specific source, providing credibility and context for the data cited.
Question 4: What is the purpose of a 'warrant' in evidence-based writing?
- To restate the thesis at the end of the essay
- To explain how the evidence connects to and supports the claim (Correct answer)
- To introduce the opposing viewpoint
- To list additional sources in the bibliography
Correct answer: To explain how the evidence connects to and supports the claim
A warrant is the logical explanation that bridges the evidence to the claim, showing why the evidence is relevant.
Question 5: A student wants to argue that online learning improves student performance. Which evidence would be LEAST useful?
- A peer-reviewed study showing higher test scores in online courses
- A statistic on student enrollment in online programs
- A personal blog post from one student who prefers online classes (Correct answer)
- A graph comparing GPA trends before and after online learning was introduced
Correct answer: A personal blog post from one student who prefers online classes
A single personal blog post is an anecdotal, non-peer-reviewed source and provides weak, subjective evidence.
Question 6: How should a writer handle evidence that seems to contradict their claim?
- Ignore it because it weakens the argument
- Include it and explain why the claim still holds despite the contradiction (Correct answer)
- Move it to a footnote so readers can skip it
- Change the claim to match the contradictory evidence
Correct answer: Include it and explain why the claim still holds despite the contradiction
Addressing contradictory evidence and refuting or contextualizing it strengthens credibility and demonstrates thorough analysis.
Question 7: Which transition phrase is BEST suited for introducing a piece of supporting evidence?
- However, this shows that
- For instance, the report states (Correct answer)
- In conclusion, we can see
- Although many people believe
Correct answer: For instance, the report states
'For instance' signals that a specific example or piece of evidence is being presented to support the preceding claim.
LEAP Writing Evidence-Based Claims 2
When integrating a direct quote into your essay, what must always follow the quoted text?