MoGEA Test Reading Informational Texts and Argument Analysis 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of an author's use of evidence in an argumentative text?
- To entertain the reader with interesting details.
- To support and strengthen the author's central claim. (Correct answer)
- To introduce the topic to an unfamiliar audience.
- To demonstrate the author's personal experience.
Correct answer: To support and strengthen the author's central claim.
Evidence is used to support and validate the author's central claim, making the argument more credible and persuasive.
Question 2: What does 'author's purpose' refer to in reading comprehension?
- The main character's motivation in the text.
- The reason the author wrote the text. (Correct answer)
- The setting in which the story takes place.
- The vocabulary level of the text.
Correct answer: The reason the author wrote the text.
Author's purpose is the reason why the author wrote the text — to inform, persuade, entertain, or explain.
Question 3: Which of the following is an example of a logical fallacy?
- Presenting data from a peer-reviewed study.
- Using expert testimony to support a claim.
- Claiming that everyone agrees with a view so it must be correct. (Correct answer)
- Acknowledging and refuting a counterargument.
Correct answer: Claiming that everyone agrees with a view so it must be correct.
Claiming something is true because 'everyone agrees' is the bandwagon fallacy — popularity does not determine truth.
Question 4: Which text structure presents events in the order in which they occurred?
- Cause and effect
- Compare and contrast
- Chronological order (Correct answer)
- Problem and solution
Correct answer: Chronological order
Chronological order organizes information by time, presenting events from earliest to most recent.
Question 5: In an informational text, a 'claim' is best defined as:
- A factual statement that requires no support.
- An assertion or position the author wants readers to accept. (Correct answer)
- A summary of the main ideas in the passage.
- A question the author raises for consideration.
Correct answer: An assertion or position the author wants readers to accept.
A claim is the author's main assertion or position — the point they are trying to convince readers to believe.
Question 6: Which signal words indicate a cause-and-effect text structure?
- However, on the other hand, in contrast
- First, then, finally, afterward
- Because, therefore, as a result, consequently (Correct answer)
- For example, such as, including
Correct answer: Because, therefore, as a result, consequently
Words like 'because,' 'therefore,' 'as a result,' and 'consequently' signal cause-and-effect relationships between ideas.
MoGEA Test Reading Informational Texts and Argument Analysis 1
What is the primary purpose of an author's use of evidence in an argumentative text?