RLA - Reasoning through Language Arts Structuring the Extended Response Questions and Answers

Question 1

A student is beginning to structure an extended response analyzing two articles about the implementation of a four-day school week.
Which of the following sentences would serve as the most effective, debatable thesis statement for the essay?

Accepted Answer

While the proposal for a four-day school week offers potential cost savings, the argument for maintaining a five-day week is better supported because it more thoroughly addresses concerns about student learning and childcare for working families.

Answer

Some schools have adopted a four-day school week, while others have maintained the traditional five-day model.

Answer

This essay will analyze the arguments for and against a four-day school week as presented in the two provided articles.

Answer

The four-day school week is a controversial topic with many different opinions presented in the two articles.

Question 2

An extended response begins with the thesis: 'Although both articles address the issue of urban gardening, the argument promoting community gardens is more compelling because it provides stronger evidence of social and economic benefits.' What is the primary purpose of the body paragraphs that follow this thesis?

Accepted Answer

To provide detailed evidence and analysis from both texts that prove community gardens offer superior social and economic benefits.

Answer

To summarize the main points of both articles without taking a side.

Answer

To introduce new arguments about urban gardening that were not in the articles.

Answer

To focus solely on the weaknesses of the opposing article's argument.

Question 3

A writer is drafting a body paragraph for an extended response. The paragraph begins with the topic sentence: 'One of the most significant weaknesses in the argument against the new highway is its failure to provide credible data on environmental impacts.' Which of the following sentences would be the LEAST effective piece of supporting evidence to include next in the paragraph?

Accepted Answer

The author of the anti-highway article has been a vocal opponent of many local development projects in the past.

Answer

The author claims the highway will harm local wildlife but does not cite any scientific studies or expert testimony to back this up.

Answer

Conversely, the pro-highway article references a Department of Transportation study that found minimal long-term effects on the local ecosystem.

Answer

For example, the article mentions 'pollution' but offers no specific metrics, such as projected air quality changes or water contamination levels.

Question 4

Read the following sentences from an extended response: 'The first article relies heavily on emotional appeals to persuade the reader. __________, the second article builds its case using statistical data and expert testimony.' Which transitional word or phrase best connects these two ideas?

Accepted Answer

In contrast

Answer

Similarly

Answer

For example

Answer

In addition

Question 5

Which of the following is an essential component of a strong concluding paragraph for an extended response essay?

Accepted Answer

Restating the thesis statement in a new way and summarizing the main points.

Answer

Introducing a new piece of evidence to surprise the reader.

Answer

Ending with a question to make the reader think.

Answer

Providing a detailed summary of each source text.

Question 6

In structuring an extended response, what is the main function of an introductory paragraph?

Accepted Answer

To engage the reader, provide context for the topic, and present a clear thesis statement.

Answer

To present the most compelling piece of evidence from the source texts.

Answer

To provide a detailed, lengthy summary of both sides of the issue.

Answer

To list all the main points that will be discussed in the body paragraphs.