PARCC Grade 7 ELA 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In an argumentative essay, what is the primary purpose of a counterclaim?
- To restate the thesis
- To acknowledge and address an opposing viewpoint (Correct answer)
- To list supporting facts
- To summarize the conclusion
Correct answer: To acknowledge and address an opposing viewpoint
A counterclaim presents an opposing view so the writer can refute it and strengthen the argument.
Question 2: Which word in this sentence is a coordinating conjunction: 'She wanted to play outside, but it started to rain.'?
- wanted
- but (Correct answer)
- started
- outside
Correct answer: but
'But' is a coordinating conjunction joining two independent clauses.
Question 3: What does the word 'analyze' most nearly mean?
- To examine in detail (Correct answer)
- To ignore completely
- To copy exactly
- To memorize quickly
Correct answer: To examine in detail
To analyze means to break something down and examine it closely.
Question 4: Which sentence uses a semicolon correctly?
- I love reading; especially mysteries.
- The storm passed; the sun came out. (Correct answer)
- We need; bread, milk, and eggs.
- She ran fast; and won the race.
Correct answer: The storm passed; the sun came out.
A semicolon correctly joins two related independent clauses.
Question 5: When citing textual evidence to support an inference, a strong response should include:
- Only the reader's opinion
- A direct quote or paraphrase from the text (Correct answer)
- A summary of an unrelated text
- A personal story
Correct answer: A direct quote or paraphrase from the text
Textual evidence requires referencing specific details from the passage itself.
Question 6: What is the meaning of the prefix 'mis-' in the word 'misunderstand'?
- Again
- Wrongly or badly (Correct answer)
- Before
- Together
Correct answer: Wrongly or badly
The prefix 'mis-' means wrongly or incorrectly.
Question 7: A theme of a story is best described as:
- The setting where it takes place
- The central message or lesson (Correct answer)
- The list of characters
- The sequence of events
Correct answer: The central message or lesson
Theme is the underlying message or insight about life conveyed by the story.
PARCC Grade 7 ELA 2
In an argumentative essay, what is the primary purpose of a counterclaim?