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 condenses the main points of a source, while a critique analyzes and evaluates its strengths, weaknesses, and arguments.

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

An introduction provides context for the topic, engages the reader, and presents the thesis statement that guides the entire essay.

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

Hedging language (e.g., 'may,' 'suggests,' 'it appears') qualifies claims to acknowledge limitations or uncertainty in research findings.

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

In active voice, the subject performs the action ('The researcher conducted the study'); passive voice shifts emphasis to the action or object ('The study was conducted').

Question 5

Which writing structure is most commonly required in academic essays?

Accepted Answer

Introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion

Answer

The standard academic essay structure includes an introduction with a thesis, body paragraphs with supporting evidence, and a conclusion that synthesizes findings.

(OPELA) Online Post-Enrolment Language Assessment Practice Test

(OPELA) Online Post-Enrolment Language Assessment Practice Test

OPELA Academic Writing Skills 2