SBAC ELA Grade 8 Writing Arguments 2

Question 1

What is the purpose of a 'claim' in an argumentative essay?

Accepted Answer

To state the writer's central position or argument on the topic

Answer

To describe the history of the topic

Answer

To summarize what others have said about the topic

Answer

To present evidence that the writer will analyze

Question 2

What is a 'counterclaim' and why do strong argumentative essays include one?

Accepted Answer

A counterclaim presents an opposing argument, which the writer then addresses to strengthen their own argument

Answer

A counterclaim repeats the main claim in different words for emphasis

Answer

A counterclaim is evidence that directly supports the writer's position

Answer

A counterclaim is a second, unrelated argument that the writer wants to make

Question 3

Which type of evidence is most appropriate to support the argument that regular exercise reduces depression?

Accepted Answer

Results from multiple peer-reviewed studies showing reduced depression rates in people who exercise regularly

Answer

A personal story about someone who felt better after exercising

Answer

A famous person's quote saying they feel better when they exercise

Answer

An emotional appeal describing how depression makes people feel

Question 4

Which sentence uses the most formal academic language appropriate for an argumentative essay?

Accepted Answer

Scientific consensus indicates that anthropogenic climate change poses significant risks to global ecosystems.

Answer

Everyone knows that climate change is a huge deal.

Answer

Climate change is totally messing up the environment.

Answer

Climate change is bad and scientists have been talking about it for a while now.

Question 5

An argumentative essay ends: 'Therefore, school districts should invest in social-emotional learning programs because they improve student mental health, reduce disciplinary problems, and create more positive school communities.' What is the function of this sentence?

Accepted Answer

It restates the claim and summarizes the main supporting reasons, serving as a conclusion

Answer

It introduces the first piece of evidence

Answer

It presents a counterclaim that will be refuted

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It provides a quote from an expert

Question 6

When a writer uses the phrase 'According to the American Medical Association...' what is the purpose?

Accepted Answer

To attribute evidence to a credible source, increasing the argument's persuasiveness

Answer

To show that the writer is not sure of the information

Answer

To introduce a personal opinion

Answer

To signal that the information is controversial