UExcel English Composition

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a thesis statement in an essay?

Accepted Answer

To present the central argument or claim of the essay

Answer

To provide background information on the topic

Answer

To summarize the conclusion

Answer

To list the sources used

Question 2

Which sentence contains a dangling modifier?

Accepted Answer

Walking down the street, the trees looked beautiful.

Answer

Running quickly, Maria caught the bus.

Answer

Having finished the report, the manager approved it.

Answer

After she studied all night, she passed the exam.

Question 3

What is the correct way to cite a direct quote using MLA format?

Accepted Answer

(Author Page)

Answer

(Author, Year, Page)

Answer

[Author Page]

Answer

(Author, Page)

Question 4

Which type of essay requires you to present multiple perspectives without taking a personal position?

Accepted Answer

Expository essay

Answer

Persuasive essay

Answer

Narrative essay

Answer

Descriptive essay

Question 5

A topic sentence in a body paragraph should:

Accepted Answer

State the main point of that paragraph and connect to the thesis

Answer

Introduce a new argument unrelated to the thesis

Answer

Summarize the previous paragraph

Answer

Include supporting evidence

Question 6

Which of the following is an example of a primary source?

Accepted Answer

The original text of a historical speech

Answer

A textbook chapter summarizing research

Answer

A scholarly article analyzing a novel

Answer

A biography about a scientist