WI Forward - Wisconsin Forward English Language Arts: Writing Questions and Answers

Question 1

A student is writing an argumentative essay about the benefits of year-round schooling. Which of the following sentences would be the most effective claim for the essay?

Accepted Answer

Implementing a year-round school calendar provides students with more consistent instruction and helps prevent summer learning loss.

Answer

Year-round schooling is a topic that many people have different opinions about.

Answer

This essay will explore the advantages and disadvantages of year-round school schedules.

Answer

Some students would probably enjoy having shorter, more frequent breaks throughout the school year.

Question 2

Read the following sentences from a student's narrative:

(1) The old house stood on a hill overlooking the town. (2) I decided to go inside. (3) The door creaked open slowly. (4) A dusty smell filled the air.

Which transitional word or phrase, if added to the beginning of sentence (3), would best improve the connection between the sentences?

Accepted Answer

Hesitantly,

Answer

For example,

Answer

In contrast,

Answer

Therefore,

Question 3

A student is revising a paragraph in an informational report about the planet Mars. Which of the following revision goals is most important for this type of writing?

Accepted Answer

Checking that all facts are accurate and supported by evidence from reliable sources.

Answer

Adding more descriptive adjectives and emotional language.

Answer

Ensuring the conclusion restates the author's personal feelings.

Answer

Developing a complex and suspenseful plot.

Question 4

Which of the following sentences uses commas correctly to set off a nonessential clause?

Accepted Answer

The student, who aced the test, studied for hours.

Answer

The book that I am reading, is very interesting.

Answer

My friend, Sarah is coming over later today.

Answer

The car, that is parked outside is red.

Question 5

A student is writing a narrative about their first time visiting a big city. To best establish the setting and mood, which of the following details should be included in the opening paragraph?

Accepted Answer

The constant blare of car horns, the towering skyscrapers blocking the sun, and the hurried pace of the crowds.

Answer

A list of the tourist attractions the character plans to visit later in the story.

Answer

A detailed explanation of how the character traveled to the city.

Answer

A summary of the main conflict that will be resolved at the end of the narrative.

Question 6

A student is drafting an email to their principal to propose a new after-school club. Which of the following demonstrates the most appropriate tone and language for this audience and purpose?

Accepted Answer

I am writing to request your consideration for a new after-school club focused on coding, which would provide valuable skills to students.

Answer

Hey, I think we should totally start a new club. It would be awesome.

Answer

You need to approve a coding club. Lots of students want it and it's a good idea so we should just do it.

Answer

This is my proposal for a club. It's about coding. Let me know if it's okay.