Structuring the Extended Response Flashcards

The GED Extended Response prompt asks you to determine which argument is better supported. What does 'better supported' primarily mean?

Answer: The argument backed by stronger evidence and sound reasoning

A better-supported argument relies on relevant, credible evidence and logical reasoning rather than length or emotional appeal.

Which of the following is an example of a logical fallacy that would weaken an Extended Response argument?

Answer: Concluding that because two events occurred together, one caused the other

Assuming causation from correlation (post hoc fallacy) is a logical error that undermines the credibility of an argument.

When paraphrasing source material in the Extended Response, what must the writer ensure?

Answer: The meaning is accurately preserved and the connection to the thesis is clear

Effective paraphrase captures the original meaning in the writer's own words and links it clearly to the argument being made.

A writer wants to show the reader that she is moving from one supporting point to the next. Which technique best accomplishes this?

Answer: Using transitional expressions such as 'Furthermore' or 'In addition'

Transitional expressions signal logical connections between ideas and guide the reader smoothly from one point to the next.

Which strategy best helps a writer maintain a formal tone throughout the Extended Response?

Answer: Avoiding first-person pronouns and colloquial expressions

Formal academic writing avoids contractions, slang, and casual language, relying instead on precise vocabulary and complete sentences.

In the context of the Extended Response, what is the role of the thesis statement?

Answer: To state the writer's central claim that all body paragraphs will support

The thesis is the controlling idea of the essay; every body paragraph must connect back to it to create a unified argument.

A student writes: 'Passage 1 is good. Passage 2 is also good.' Why is this an ineffective analysis?

Answer: It makes vague value judgments without evaluating specific evidence or reasoning

Effective analysis identifies specific evidence and explains why it strengthens or weakens an argument rather than offering vague praise.