NBT Academic Literacy: Text Coherence and Discourse Organisation

Question 1

Which word or phrase signals a CONTRAST between two ideas in academic writing?

Accepted Answer

Nevertheless

Answer

Furthermore

Answer

Similarly

Answer

In addition

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the function of a topic sentence in an academic paragraph?

Accepted Answer

It introduces the main idea or claim that the paragraph will develop

Answer

It provides a specific example or piece of evidence for the paragraph's argument

Answer

It summarises the entire essay's argument in a single sentence

Answer

It connects two paragraphs by restating the previous paragraph's conclusion

Question 3

Read the following: 'Scientists discovered a new compound. It significantly reduced inflammation in clinical trials.' What does the word 'it' refer to?

Accepted Answer

A new compound

Answer

The scientists

Answer

A discovery

Answer

Inflammation

Question 4

What organisational pattern does the following paragraph use? 'Unemployment rises when consumer confidence falls. As spending decreases, businesses cut production costs by reducing staff.'

Accepted Answer

Cause and effect

Answer

Comparison and contrast

Answer

Problem and solution

Answer

Chronological sequence

Question 5

Read this paragraph: 'Water conservation is essential in arid regions. Installing low-flow taps reduces household water use significantly. Cape Town successfully avoided a water crisis in 2018. South Africa has a rich diversity of wildlife.' Which sentence does NOT belong?

Accepted Answer

South Africa has a rich diversity of wildlife.

Answer

Installing low-flow taps reduces household water use significantly.

Answer

Cape Town successfully avoided a water crisis in 2018.

Answer

Water conservation is essential in arid regions.

Question 6

A paragraph argues that university students must develop independent study habits. Which sentence best concludes this argument?

Accepted Answer

Developing self-discipline in managing study time is therefore fundamental to academic success.

Answer

Many students enjoy studying with friends.

Answer

University libraries are open until midnight on weekdays.

Answer

Lecturers should remind students to attend all scheduled classes.