CMAS CMAS Writing Skills

Question 1

In a CMAS opinion or argumentative essay, what is the main purpose of a thesis statement?

Accepted Answer

To introduce the topic and clearly state the writer's central claim

Answer

A thesis statement introduces the topic and presents the writer's central claim that the essay will support.

Question 2

Which type of writing asks students to explain a topic clearly using facts and examples, without taking a personal stance?

Accepted Answer

Informative/explanatory writing

Answer

Informative/explanatory writing presents facts and explanations about a topic without expressing a personal opinion.

Question 3

What does it mean to use 'text evidence' in a CMAS written response?

Accepted Answer

Quoting or paraphrasing specific information from the provided passage(s)

Answer

Using text evidence means quoting or paraphrasing specific information from the source passage to support your points.

Question 4

Which transitional phrase best connects a supporting example to a main idea in an explanatory paragraph?

Accepted Answer

For instance

Answer

'For instance' is a transitional phrase used to introduce a specific example that supports a main idea.

Question 5

In a CMAS narrative writing task, what is the role of a story's 'narrator'?

Accepted Answer

The person or voice telling the story

Answer

The narrator is the voice or character through whose perspective the story is told.

CMAS - Colorado Measures of Academic Success Practice Test