MCAS MCAS Writing and Composition 3

Question 1

Which type of language should be avoided in formal academic writing?

Accepted Answer

Slang and informal expressions

Answer

Formal academic writing requires professional language; slang and informal expressions are inappropriate and undermine the writing's credibility.

Question 2

What is a 'claim' in argumentative writing?

Accepted Answer

A statement that asserts a position or argument

Answer

A claim is a debatable statement that asserts the writer's position or argument, which will be supported with evidence throughout the essay.

Question 3

What does 'coherence' mean in writing?

Accepted Answer

The ideas flow logically and are clearly connected

Answer

Coherence means that ideas in a piece of writing are logically connected and flow smoothly, making the text easy to follow and understand.

Question 4

When writing a research-based essay in MCAS, why is it important to use multiple sources?

Accepted Answer

To show that the argument is supported by a range of evidence and perspectives

Answer

Using multiple sources strengthens an argument by demonstrating that the claim is supported by a variety of evidence and perspectives.

Question 5

What is the function of a 'warrant' or 'reasoning' in argumentative writing?

Accepted Answer

It explains how the evidence connects to and supports the claim

Answer

A warrant or reasoning explains the logical connection between the evidence presented and the claim it is meant to support.

MCAS - Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System Test Practice Test