VCLA Critical Thinking and Text Analysis

Question 1

On the VCLA, which element of an argument is defined as the central claim the author wants to prove?

Accepted Answer

Thesis

Answer

Evidence

Answer

Counterargument

Answer

Transition

Question 2

Which of the following is an example of an author using a logical fallacy known as 'hasty generalization'?

Accepted Answer

Two students failed the test, so all students in the school are failing.

Answer

The data from 1,000 surveyed teachers supports this conclusion.

Answer

Experts in education have reviewed and endorsed this program.

Answer

This policy was tested in five states before being implemented nationally.

Question 3

What is the purpose of a counterargument in a persuasive essay tested on the VCLA?

Accepted Answer

To acknowledge and then refute an opposing viewpoint

Answer

To distract the reader from the main point

Answer

To list all supporting facts in sequence

Answer

To restate the thesis in different words

Question 4

On the VCLA, which question requires you to evaluate how well an author supports their argument with evidence?

Accepted Answer

An author's craft and evidence question

Answer

A literal comprehension question

Answer

A vocabulary definition question

Answer

A text structure identification question

Question 5

Which type of bias occurs when an author only presents information that supports their viewpoint and ignores contradicting evidence?

Accepted Answer

One-sided bias

Answer

Confirmation bias

Answer

Selection bias

Answer

Anchoring bias

Question 6

In a VCLA passage, the author writes: 'Everyone knows that this is the best solution.' Which persuasive technique is being used?

Accepted Answer

Bandwagon appeal

Answer

Expert testimony

Answer

Statistical evidence

Answer

Cause-and-effect reasoning