OPELA Academic Writing Skills 2

Question 1

What is the key difference between a summary and a critique in academic writing?

Accepted Answer

A summary restates main points; a critique evaluates and analyzes the work

Answer

A summary evaluates strengths and weaknesses; a critique restates key points

Answer

Both summary and critique present only the writer's original arguments

Answer

A summary requires citations while a critique does not

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of an introduction paragraph in an academic essay?

Accepted Answer

To provide background context and the thesis statement

Answer

To present all supporting evidence for the argument

Answer

To conclude the essay with final thoughts

Answer

To list all sources in alphabetical order

Question 3

Which of the following best describes 'hedging language' in academic writing?

Accepted Answer

Using tentative language to qualify claims and acknowledge uncertainty

Answer

Using strong, definitive statements to assert claims

Answer

Avoiding citations to emphasize original ideas

Answer

Writing in first person to express personal views

Question 4

What is the primary difference between active and passive voice in academic writing?

Accepted Answer

Active voice uses the subject as the doer; passive voice emphasizes the action or its receiver

Answer

Active voice emphasizes the action; passive voice emphasizes the subject performing the action

Answer

Passive voice is always preferred across all academic disciplines

Answer

Active voice is only acceptable in scientific writing

Question 5

Which writing structure is most commonly required in academic essays?

Accepted Answer

Introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion

Answer

Narrative structure with a rising climax

Answer

Stream of consciousness free writing

Answer

Problem-solution format exclusively

Question 6

What is the main purpose of an academic conclusion?

Accepted Answer

To synthesize key points and reinforce the thesis statement

Answer

To introduce new arguments not covered in the body paragraphs

Answer

To restate the thesis word-for-word and list all sources used

Answer

To provide additional evidence supporting the argument

Question 7

Which citation style is most commonly required in social science academic writing?

Accepted Answer

APA (American Psychological Association)

Answer

MLA (Modern Language Association)

Answer

Chicago/Turabian

Answer

Vancouver style