PARCC Grade 9 ELA 2

Question 1

In an argumentative essay, which element most strengthens a writer's claim?

Accepted Answer

Relevant evidence and reasoning

Answer

Frequent use of exclamation points

Answer

A longer word count

Answer

Repeating the claim many times

Question 2

What is the purpose of a counterclaim in an argument?

Accepted Answer

To address opposing viewpoints

Answer

To restate the introduction

Answer

To list the author's sources

Answer

To summarize the plot

Question 3

Which sentence uses a semicolon correctly?

Accepted Answer

The storm passed; the streets stayed flooded.

Answer

The storm passed; and the streets stayed flooded.

Answer

The storm passed, the streets stayed flooded.

Answer

The storm; passed and flooded streets.

Question 4

What does the word 'inevitable' most nearly mean?

Accepted Answer

Certain to happen

Answer

Easily avoided

Answer

Rarely seen

Answer

Difficult to understand

Question 5

In a literary analysis, a theme is best described as the text's:

Accepted Answer

Central message or insight

Answer

Sequence of events

Answer

Setting and time period

Answer

List of characters

Question 6

Which transition word best signals a contrast?

Accepted Answer

However

Answer

Furthermore

Answer

Therefore

Answer

Similarly

Question 7

When citing textual evidence, a writer should:

Accepted Answer

Quote or paraphrase and explain its relevance

Answer

Copy the entire passage without comment

Answer

Use only personal opinion

Answer

Avoid referencing the text