Evidence-Based Written Responses Flashcards
7 cards from real NJSLA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Evidence-Based Written Responses flashcards as text
Which element is MOST important in a strong concluding paragraph for an evidence-based essay?
Answer: Synthesizing the main points and reinforcing the thesis in new words
A strong conclusion synthesizes the essay's main ideas and restates the thesis in fresh language, leaving the reader with a sense of completion.
What is the difference between paraphrasing and plagiarizing source material?
Answer: Paraphrasing restates the idea in your own words with attribution; plagiarizing copies without credit
Paraphrasing means rewording a source's idea in your own language while crediting the source; plagiarizing means using someone else's words or ideas without attribution.
A student reads two articles with conflicting data about screen time's effects on children. How should the student handle this in a written response?
Answer: Acknowledge the conflicting data and explain which evidence is stronger and why
Acknowledging conflicting evidence and evaluating which is stronger demonstrates critical thinking and strengthens the credibility of the argument.
Which of the following BEST describes the purpose of a topic sentence in a body paragraph?
Answer: To introduce the main idea of that paragraph and connect it to the thesis
A topic sentence states the main idea of a body paragraph and links it back to the essay's central thesis.
On the NJSLA, an informational/explanatory task asks students to 'explain' a concept using sources. This is DIFFERENT from an argumentative task because:
Answer: Explanatory writing presents information objectively rather than arguing for one position
Explanatory/informational writing presents facts and explains concepts objectively, while argumentative writing takes a stance and defends it with evidence.
A student writes a body paragraph with five direct quotes in a row and no analysis. What is the PRIMARY problem?
Answer: The student failed to analyze or connect the evidence to the thesis
Evidence alone does not make an argument; students must analyze quotes and explain how each piece of evidence supports the central claim.
Which signal phrase BEST introduces evidence while also establishing the source's credibility?
Answer: According to marine biologist Dr. Jane Chen, who has studied coral reefs for 20 years...
Identifying the source's credentials (title, expertise, experience) establishes authority and makes the cited evidence more persuasive.