TSIA2 Essay Writing 5

Question 1

A student's essay body paragraph contains only the topic sentence and three examples with no analysis. What does the paragraph most need?

Accepted Answer

Explanation of how each example supports the topic sentence

Answer

Analysis connecting evidence to the argument is essential; examples alone do not prove a point without explanation.

Question 2

Which of the following is the strongest argumentative thesis for an essay about school uniforms?

Accepted Answer

Mandating school uniforms reduces socioeconomic-based bullying and helps students focus on academics.

Answer

An effective thesis makes a specific, debatable claim and previews the reasons that will be argued in the essay.

Question 3

Which sentence contains a subject-verb agreement error?

Accepted Answer

The number of homeless individuals in major cities are rising each year.

Answer

'The number' is a singular subject and requires the singular verb 'is,' not 'are.'

Question 4

What is the purpose of transitional words like 'furthermore,' 'however,' and 'therefore' in an essay?

Accepted Answer

To signal logical relationships between ideas and guide the reader

Answer

Transitional words clarify how ideas relate — adding, contrasting, or concluding — which helps readers follow the argument.

Question 5

Which revision makes the following vague sentence more precise: 'The new policy affected a lot of people in a bad way.'

Accepted Answer

The new policy left over 10,000 residents without health coverage.

Answer

Specific details — a number and a named consequence — replace vague words like 'a lot' and 'bad,' making the claim concrete.

(TSIA2) Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 Practice Test