RICAS Evidence-Based Writing 3

Question 1

A student is revising an essay and notices two ideas in one paragraph are only loosely connected. What is the best strategy?

Accepted Answer

Add a transitional sentence that explicitly links the two ideas.

Answer

A transitional sentence clarifies the logical relationship between ideas, improving paragraph coherence.

Question 2

Which sentence contains a dangling modifier?

Accepted Answer

After finishing the report, it was submitted to the manager.

Answer

The report cannot finish itself; the modifier 'After finishing the report' has no clear subject performing the action.

Question 3

A student writes an essay claiming that homework should be banned. A classmate argues that homework helps reinforce learning. Which strategy should the student use to address this counterargument?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the counterargument, then explain why the evidence still supports banning homework.

Answer

Acknowledging and then refuting a counterargument demonstrates critical thinking and strengthens the writer's position.

Question 4

Read this sentence: 'The students was excited about the field trip.' What is the error?

Accepted Answer

Subject-verb disagreement—should be 'were'

Answer

The plural subject 'students' requires the plural verb 'were,' not the singular 'was.'

Question 5

Which type of evidence would be MOST persuasive in a research essay arguing that exercise improves academic performance?

Accepted Answer

A peer-reviewed study tracking 500 students' grades before and after an exercise program.

Answer

Peer-reviewed research with a large sample size provides the most credible, data-backed support for an academic argument.

(RICAS) Rhode Island State Practice Test

(RICAS) Rhode Island State Practice Test

RICAS Evidence-Based Writing 3