Stanford Achievement Test Stanford Achievement Writing Composition 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which sentence correctly uses a transition word to show contrast?
- She studied hard; furthermore, she failed the test.
- She studied hard; however, she failed the test. (Correct answer)
- She studied hard; therefore, she failed the test.
- She studied hard; similarly, she failed the test.
Correct answer: She studied hard; however, she failed the test.
"However" is a contrast transition word that signals an unexpected or opposing result.
Question 2: What does it mean to use 'voice' in writing?
- Writing in all capital letters
- The unique style and personality a writer brings to their work (Correct answer)
- Using only dialogue in a story
- Writing very loudly and dramatically
Correct answer: The unique style and personality a writer brings to their work
Voice in writing refers to the distinctive style, tone, and personality that makes a writer's work recognizable and engaging.
Question 3: Which is an example of a simile?
- The stars danced in the sky.
- Her smile was a ray of sunshine.
- Her smile was as bright as sunshine. (Correct answer)
- The wind whispered through the trees.
Correct answer: Her smile was as bright as sunshine.
A simile compares two things using the words "like" or "as," such as "as bright as sunshine."
Question 4: What is the purpose of a concluding paragraph in an essay?
- To introduce new arguments
- To restate the thesis and summarize key points (Correct answer)
- To list all sources used
- To begin a new topic
Correct answer: To restate the thesis and summarize key points
A conclusion restates the thesis in new words and summarizes the main points, giving the reader a sense of closure.
Question 5: Which technique helps a writer brainstorm ideas before writing?
- Proofreading
- Peer editing
- Mind mapping or webbing (Correct answer)
- Publishing
Correct answer: Mind mapping or webbing
Mind mapping or webbing is a prewriting strategy that helps writers brainstorm and organize ideas visually.
Question 6: What does 'point of view' refer to in writing?
- The setting of the story
- The perspective from which a story is told (Correct answer)
- The conflict in a story
- The theme of an essay
Correct answer: The perspective from which a story is told
Point of view refers to who is narrating the story—first person (I/we), second person (you), or third person (he/she/they).
Stanford Achievement Test Stanford Achievement Writing Composition 2
Which sentence correctly uses a transition word to show contrast?