MAAP Writing and Language Arts 1

Question 1

Which type of essay requires the writer to take a position and support it with evidence?

Accepted Answer

Argumentative essay

Answer

An argumentative essay presents a claim and uses evidence, reasoning, and counterarguments to persuade the reader.

Question 2

What is the purpose of a thesis statement in an essay?

Accepted Answer

To state the main argument or central idea

Answer

A thesis statement presents the writer's central argument, typically appearing at the end of the introduction.

Question 3

Which sentence contains a dangling modifier?

Accepted Answer

Walking down the street, the trees looked beautiful.

Answer

In 'Walking down the street, the trees looked beautiful,' the modifier implies the trees were walking, which is illogical.

Question 4

Which transition word would best show contrast between two ideas?

Accepted Answer

However

Answer

'However' signals a contrast or shift in ideas, while the others signal continuation or conclusion.

Question 5

What is the correct punctuation for: 'My sister who lives in Jackson is a nurse'?

Accepted Answer

My sister, who lives in Jackson, is a nurse.

Answer

A non-restrictive clause that can be removed without changing core meaning is set off with commas on both sides.

MAAP - Mississippi Academic Assessment Program Practice Test