NBT NBT Academic Literacy: Tone, Register and Author's Attitude 1

Question 1

Read the passage: 'Despite decades of investment in public transport infrastructure, commuters continue to endure unacceptable delays.
The authorities have, yet again, failed to deliver on their promises.' What is the author's tone?

Accepted Answer

Critical

Answer

Neutral

Answer

Optimistic

Answer

Humorous

Question 2

Consider this sentence from a scientific report: 'The results indicate a statistically significant correlation between sedentary behaviour and cardiovascular risk.' What register is this written in?

Accepted Answer

Formal academic

Answer

Informal conversational

Answer

Emotive persuasive

Answer

Literary narrative

Question 3

A journalist writes: 'It seems the minister has conveniently forgotten his election promises — again.' What does the word 'conveniently' suggest about the author's attitude?

Accepted Answer

Sarcasm and scepticism

Answer

Admiration and praise

Answer

Indifference

Answer

Confusion

Question 4

A text begins: 'Yo, so I was totally freaking out about my prelims and my mate said I should just chill.' What register does this represent?

Accepted Answer

Informal/colloquial

Answer

Formal academic

Answer

Technical professional

Answer

Literary

Question 5

An author writes: 'One cannot help but marvel at the resilience of communities that rebuild after disaster, a testament to the enduring human spirit.' What is the dominant tone?

Accepted Answer

Admiring and uplifting

Answer

Sorrowful and pessimistic

Answer

Detached and clinical

Answer

Ironic

Question 6

A newspaper editorial states: 'The government's hasty decision to privatise water services is nothing short of reckless.' The author's attitude toward the decision is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Strongly opposed

Answer

Cautiously supportive

Answer

Ambivalent

Answer

Enthusiastically in favour

Question 7

Which sentence best illustrates a neutral, objective tone appropriate for academic writing?

Accepted Answer

Studies have shown that regular exercise is associated with improved cognitive function.

Answer

Exercise is absolutely fantastic for your brain — everyone should do it!

Answer

They say exercise helps you think better, but who really knows?

Answer

Exercising is a total game-changer for your mental health, honestly.