COM150 Week 5 Exercise: Topic Sentences and Paragraphs
Resources: Topic
Sentences and Supporting Paragraphs, A Pocket Style Manual, and the
Writing Resources Web Site
Due Date: Day 5
Read about topic
sentences and paragraphs in A Pocket Style Manual.
Log on to the Writing
Resources Web Site at
http://bcs.bedfordstmartins.com/axia/default.asp?uid=0&rau=0
1. Click on the Exercise
Central tab at the top of the page. 2. Go to the Exercise Central
category and select the topic listed. 3. Select the exercise number and
title and complete the practice exercises.
Copy and paste your
individual results for each exercise into a new post in your Individual forum.
The subject line of each post must inform the instructor which exercises you
are posting (for example, Exercise 123).
|
Exercise Central Category
|
Topics
|
Exercise Central Exercises
|
Pocket Style Manual Readings
|
|
|
Writing
|
Topic Sentences
|
832. Selecting the
More Effective Topic Sentence
850. Paragraph topic
sentences
|
pp. 1-6 in The Writing
Process section
|
|
|
Writing
|
Developing a Paragraph
|
847. Identifying
types of paragraphs
739. Identifying the
main point and supporting 1
849. Paragraph
supporting sentences
741. Improving
|
pp. 6-18 in The Writing
Process section
|
Total score: 9 out of 10, 90%
1.
___________________________. Over-the-counter herbal supplements seem perfectly
harmless to many consumers, who may take them just about as seriously as the
flavorings a cook adds to a pot of spaghetti sauce. The promotion of herbal
supplements as “natural” adds to the perception that these supplements cannot
do any harm. The perception is incorrect. Some herbal supplements can cause
serious complications when taken in combination with prescription drugs.
Consumers should seek competent medical advice before using over-the-counter
herbal supplements.
Many people wrongly assume that they don't need to tell their doctor about any herbal supplements they are taking.
In this paragraph, I will explain why herbal supplements might be dangerous in some situations.
0 out of 1
Sorry, the other topic sentence would be more effective.
Many people wrongly assume that they don't need to tell their doctor about any herbal supplements they are taking.
In this paragraph, I will explain why herbal supplements might be dangerous in some situations.
0 out of 1
Sorry, the other topic sentence would be more effective.
2.
______________________________. Angry teenage boys frequently turn to violence.
In contrast, teenage girls seldom attack each other physically. But experts say
that verbal abuse—a common tool for teenage girls who want to assert their
superiority over other girls—is just as much a sign of hostility as is a
physical beating. Girls who are angry at other girls may use cruel teasing,
gossip, or put-downs to make their victims feel worthless and friendless.
Anyone who has ever been on the receiving end of girl-girl bullying knows that
it feels like an act of aggression.
Teenage girls do not behave violently as often as teenage boys do.
Teenage girls act out aggression and hostility just as often as boys do, but girls choose different methods.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
Teenage girls do not behave violently as often as teenage boys do.
Teenage girls act out aggression and hostility just as often as boys do, but girls choose different methods.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
3.
First comes the pain—not too unbearable in the beginning, just an ache that you
might not notice if you are busy. But it gets worse. Soon, the pain takes over
your entire head. Light hurts your eyes, and lying down in a dark room seems
like your only choice. This can go on for hours, even for days. Eventually the
pain does go away. However, you are still stuck with the knowledge that it will
come again—and again, and again, probably at regular intervals, and perhaps for
many years or even for the rest of your life. ______________________________.
You have entered the world of the migraine sufferer.
You have tried taking aspirin, but it does not help.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
You have entered the world of the migraine sufferer.
You have tried taking aspirin, but it does not help.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
4.
______________________________. Some reasons are good ones. A parent might have
stayed up late with a sick child. A student might have had to study for a final
exam, do homework, or write the first draft of a paper. Perhaps tax returns
were due, a family emergency arose, or the boss needed someone to fill in on
the late shift. Other reasons, such as the desire to watch late reruns of American
Idol or to visit endless chat rooms online, are not as defensible.
Nevertheless, whether their reasons are good or bad, sleep deprivation
continues for most Americans.
Almost everyone has a reason for not getting enough sleep.
Getting a good night's rest helps people have more fun as well as improving their parenting, on-the-job, and study skills.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
Almost everyone has a reason for not getting enough sleep.
Getting a good night's rest helps people have more fun as well as improving their parenting, on-the-job, and study skills.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
5.
______________________________. Even if an attachment appears to come from your
best friend or your mother, the attachment can contain a virus. New generations
of computer viruses collect information from victims' e-mail address books and
then send themselves on to every address they find—without their victims'
knowledge. When in doubt, call your friend or your mother to see if the
attachment is something you are supposed to open. If you can't reach the
sender, don't open the attachment. If it turns out to be a doctored photo of a
giant cat that your friend thought was hilarious, the wait won't have hurt
you—and if it turns out to be the latest e-mail “worm,” you'll be glad you took
the time to find out.
Computer viruses are a bad problem.
The most basic way to protect your computer from viruses is never to open an e-mail attachment that you are not expecting.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
Computer viruses are a bad problem.
The most basic way to protect your computer from viruses is never to open an e-mail attachment that you are not expecting.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
6.
______________________________. Developed by a yoga instructor in the 1950s,
Earth Shoes featured “negative heels”—the shoe's heel was lower than the toe.
In the 1970s, Earth Shoes were praised for their comfort and for the way they
improved the wearer's posture. However, the appearance of the clunky, wide-toed
shoes left much to be desired, and by the end of the decade they were no longer
being made. The new millennium changed everything. Suddenly, the styles of the
1970s were back in fashion, and in 2001 Earth Shoes returned to the stores,
attracting a young, hip audience.
Every few decades, fashions of the past are recycled again.
Earth Shoes, a fashion has-been for over twenty years, have staged a comeback.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
Every few decades, fashions of the past are recycled again.
Earth Shoes, a fashion has-been for over twenty years, have staged a comeback.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
7.
______________________________. She took a look in my mouth and told me that my
jaw must ache all the time; I wondered how on earth she knew that. Then she
held up a mirror and asked me to look closely at my incisors. The ends of those
teeth had been worn away so heavily that each had a small rounded indentation
where it should have come to a point. “Bruxism,” the dentist announced in an
authoritative voice. “You grind your teeth while you're asleep.”
I never knew that I practiced bruxism until I visited my dentist.
My dentist told me that a smile was every bit as important as a handshake for forming a good first impression.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
I never knew that I practiced bruxism until I visited my dentist.
My dentist told me that a smile was every bit as important as a handshake for forming a good first impression.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
8.
______________________________. A staff that can make customers feel welcome
can often bring them back again and again, even if the food is occasionally
mediocre. But at restaurants where the employees ignore customers who walk in
the door, avoid tables even when diners obviously need something, and generally
act as if the customers are a nuisance rather than the reason for the
establishment's existence, high-quality food may not be enough to salvage the
dining experience. Most diners don't want to come back to a place where they
feel that their presence is unwanted—not even for the finest steak in town.
Great service is extremely important to a restaurant's ability to attract repeat customers—perhaps even more important than great food.
People dislike rude treatment, whether they receive it in a fancy French restaurant or a corner coffee shop.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
Great service is extremely important to a restaurant's ability to attract repeat customers—perhaps even more important than great food.
People dislike rude treatment, whether they receive it in a fancy French restaurant or a corner coffee shop.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
9.
______________________________. The essentials are ripe avocados, which can be
identified by dark brown or black peels and flesh that yields to gentle
pressure, and lime juice. Frequently, guacamole also contains the herb
cilantro, salt, chopped jalapeno peppers, chopped onion, diced tomatoes, or
other flavors. The avocados are mashed gently, either to a chunky or a smooth
texture, depending on personal preference. When the mashing is complete, the other
ingredients are stirred in. The pale-green dip is ready to serve
immediately—and there are rarely any leftovers.
Great guacamole requires few ingredients and no special skills to make.
Mexican delicacies are often flavored with the distinctive tang of lime, and guacamole is no exception.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
Great guacamole requires few ingredients and no special skills to make.
Mexican delicacies are often flavored with the distinctive tang of lime, and guacamole is no exception.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
10.
______________________________. Night of the Hunter (1955), a story of
two children stalked by their murderous, hymn-singing stepfather, was too
creepy for audiences of the time. The film was such a flop that Laughton was
never allowed to direct another movie. But while Night of the Hunter may
not have won over most viewers in the 1950s, those who saw it could not forget
the nightmarish fairy-tale story, the chilling performance by Robert Mitchum,
and the haunting images and music. Eventually, critics began to take a second
look, and the reputation of Laughton's strange little film gradually grew. Night
of the Hunter is now considered a masterpiece of cinema and a must-see for
anyone who cares about American movies.
One of Robert Mitchum's greatest performances as an actor appears in a film by actor Charles Laughton.
The memorable strangeness of the only film directed by actor Charles Laughton caused both its commercial failure and its eventual critical success.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
One of Robert Mitchum's greatest performances as an actor appears in a film by actor Charles Laughton.
The memorable strangeness of the only film directed by actor Charles Laughton caused both its commercial failure and its eventual critical success.
1 out of 1
Correct. This is the more effective topic sentence.
Paragraph topic sentences completed
Total score: 8 out of 10, 80%
1. (1)
One of the wartime feats of which the British are most proud--the Battle of
Dunkirk--was actually a military disaster. (2) In May and June of 1940, a large
group of British and French soldiers were trapped by German forces advancing to
the Channel coast at Calais. (3) With nothing but water behind them and the
German army closing in, the British and French faced total annihilation. (4)
The British were able to muster as many boats as they could find and, over four
days, evacuated more than 338,000 Allied troops and transported them back to
England. (5) Although some British troops were captured by the Germans, most of
them escaped to return and fight later in the war.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 1 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, the story of the Battle of Dunkirk.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 1 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, the story of the Battle of Dunkirk.
2. (1)
Everyone has his or her favorite way to spend free time. (2) Evan’s greatest
passion is photographing flowers and plants. (3) He carefully selected his
camera because it excels at close-ups. (4) On weekends, he is usually at the
park, lying on the ground and focusing on the tiniest parts of a flower. (5)
Over the years, he has gotten better and better at it, and he has even won
several awards.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 4
D. 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 2 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, Evan’s passion for photographing flowers and plants.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 4
D. 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 2 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, Evan’s passion for photographing flowers and plants.
3. (1)
Most people would call Uncle Ryan a hermit. (2) He has no telephone or computer.
(3) The only way anyone can contact him is to knock on his front door. (4) In
most cases, Ryan will not answer the door. (5) The only time anyone sees Ryan
with other people is at family weddings and funerals. (6) However, he hardly
ever speaks to anyone on those occasions and always leaves as soon as he can.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 1 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, Uncle Ryan’s being a hermit.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 1 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, Uncle Ryan’s being a hermit.
4. (1)
Surrounded by empty boxes and bubble wrap, I sorted out the components I had
ordered over the Internet. (2) I separated the colored cables and pieces of
circuitry. (3) I carefully set aside the power supply and motherboard. (4)
Then, gradually and with many false starts, I began putting the pieces
together. (5) As I tested each component to assure it worked properly, my
creation slowly came to life. (6) I had succeeded in building my own computer.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 6 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, the writer’s experience of building a computer.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 6 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, the writer’s experience of building a computer.
5. (1)
I am cheap. (2) I use everything until it breaks or becomes unusable. (3) I
never throw away food and am constantly concocting meals from leftovers. (4)
Instead of feeding new sheets of paper through my computer’s printer, I print
on the back sides of previouslyused paper. (5) I wear old clothes that are so
patched friends don’t like to be seen with me. (6) I regularly borrow reading material
from the library instead of buying it. (7) Whenever anyone offers to give me
something, I’ll always take it, no matter what it is.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 6
D. 7
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 1 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, the writer is cheap.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 6
D. 7
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 1 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, the writer is cheap.
6. (1)
The Interstate Highway System, a network of freeways and expressways traversing
the country, makes it possible to drive from one end of the U.S. to the other
without encountering a traffic light. (2) Construction began on the system
after President Eisenhower signed the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956. (3) The
huge project was championed by auto manufacturers and by Eisenhower himself,
who, impressed by the German autobahn network, envisioned interstate highways
as necessary components of a national defense system. (4) The system was
officially regarded as completed in 1991. (5) Although the original cost
estimate for the system was $25 billion over twelve years, it actually took 35
years to complete and cost $114 billion.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 1 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, that construction of the Interstate Highway System.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 1 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, that construction of the Interstate Highway System.
7. (1)
When many young people think about retirement, they consider it to be a time of
doing little or nothing, a time when the active part of life is over. (2)
Retirement was far from idle or inactive for Andrew Carnegie, who was one of
the world’s richest people when he retired in 1901. (3) Coming from a family
with little money but a reverence for culture and education, Carnegie was a
shrewd,driven businessperson who amassed a fortune, mostly in the steel
industry. (4) Upon retiring, Carnegie redirected his energy and his fortune to
financing the establishment of many libraries, schools, and universities in
Scotland, America, and worldwide. (5) Working diligently throughout his
retirement, Carnegie funded a total of approximately 3,000 libraries in 47
states of the U.S as well as libraries in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the
West Indies, and Fiji.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 4
D. 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 2 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, the active retirement of Andrew Carnegie.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 4
D. 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 2 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, the active retirement of Andrew Carnegie.
8. (1)
Lisa never thought she was very lucky. (2) In fact, she saw herself as usually
being at the wrong place at the wrong time. (3) However, during
her journey with her vacation cruise ship across the Panama Canal, she was
definitely at the right place at the right time. (4) The cruise ship’s
publicity person wanted pictures of the ship going through the Panama Canal,
and he had heard that Lisa was a professional photographer. (5) So Lisa had the
rare opportunity to drive the Panama Canal, taking pictures as the ship
entered the locks at one end and came through at the other end. (6) She also
took many spectacular shots of Panama’s lush tropical forest. (7) Best of all,
along with getting an unusual tour of Panama, Lisa was paid for her photography
services.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 5
D. 6
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. Sentence 5 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, Lisa’s rare opportunity tobe in the right place at the right time.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 5
D. 6
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. Sentence 5 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, Lisa’s rare opportunity tobe in the right place at the right time.
9. (1)
Presents from Jason are prized by their recipients because those presents are
always poems. (2) He writes poems for his friends and relatives on their
birthdays. (3) For special occasions, such as a graduation or a wedding, those
being honored can always count on a new poem from Jason. (4) He even writes
poems for his dog and his cat when they do something especially endearing. (5)
His poems are often published in his local newspaper, but only when the
recipients submit them. (6) Jason seems to view his poems solely as personal
presents and not publications.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 6
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. Sentence 1 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, Jason’s writing and sending of poems as presents.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 6
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. Sentence 1 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, Jason’s writing and sending of poems as presents.
10. (1)
At first, there were just occasional peeps outside the laundry room window. (2)
When the peeps got louder and more frequent, Angela stood on a chair to see
what was going on at the window. (3) She saw that the storm window protecting
the window had come loose a bit, and just inside the opening between the two
windowswas a small bird’s nest. (4) Two tiny sparrow chicks were working their
way outside of their shells, and two more eggs were slightly moving . (5)
Angela quietly checked the nest every morning. (6) Once, she even saw a parent
sparrow feeding the chicks. (7) The chicks grew quickly over the next few
weeks, peeping noisily and almost continually for food. (8) Finally, Angela
watched as the chicks tested their wings and then, one by one, flew off. (9)
Angela had observed the growth of sparrow chicks from their hatching to their
leaving the nest.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 7
D. 9
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 9 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, Angela’s observation of the chicks from hatching to leaving the nest.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 7
D. 9
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 9 is the paragraph’s topic sentence; it provides the main idea of the paragraph, Angela’s observation of the chicks from hatching to leaving the nest.
Identifying types of paragraphs completed
Total score: 10 out of 10, 100%
1. Spring
is occurring especially early this year. The snowdrops and spring beauties have
bloomed at least two weeks sooner than usual. The flow of water in Hopper Creek
is surging much stronger than it did at this time last year. People are even
bringing out their summer clothes from storage.
A. Cause-effect
B. Argument
C. Illustration
D. Narrative
1 out of 1
Correct. The paragraph gives illustrative examples of how spring is occurring early this year.
A. Cause-effect
B. Argument
C. Illustration
D. Narrative
1 out of 1
Correct. The paragraph gives illustrative examples of how spring is occurring early this year.
2. Preparing
our old lawn mower to cut the lawn takes only a few simple steps. First, use
the dipstick to make sure there is enough oil in the motor. Next, see if any
additional gas is needed in the fuel tank. Then, push the engine priming button
at least ten times. If the engine doesn’t start with the first pull of the
starter cord, hit the priming button one more time and give the cord a few more
pulls.
A. Definition
B. Process analysis
C. Example
D. Comparison-contrast
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph explains the process of starting an old lawn mower.
A. Definition
B. Process analysis
C. Example
D. Comparison-contrast
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph explains the process of starting an old lawn mower.
3. Some
students are diligent and get started with reviewing and studying as soon as
they possibly can. Then there are people who study everything at the very last
minute. While some students must focus on one book at a time, others do their
studying while playing a computer game or instant messaging. Many prefer to do
their homework in the company of other students, often working collaboratively,
while others work better alone. Unfortunately, I belong to the group that
studies everything at the very last minute. Sometimes it seems as though there
are as many kinds of study habits as there are students.
A. Analysis
B. Cause-effect
C. Data, facts, historical or personal details
D. Division and classification
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph divides and classifies students by their types of study habits.
A. Analysis
B. Cause-effect
C. Data, facts, historical or personal details
D. Division and classification
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph divides and classifies students by their types of study habits.
4. In
December 1913, Theodore Roosevelt went on an expedition in Brazil with several
scientists and explorer. The object was to find the headwaters of the River of
Doubt, now called the Roosevelt River, and to trace where it eventually joined
the Amazon River. During the trip Roosevelt contracted malaria and a serious
infection from a leg wound. Barely surviving the trip, Roosevelt later
published Through the Brazilian Wilderness, one of his most popular
books. Roosevelt never fully recovered from the illnesses from his trip, and
many believe that he died prematurely because of it in 1919.
A. Narrative
B. Argument
C. Definition
D. Example
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph narrates the story of Roosevelt’s journey to Brazil.
A. Narrative
B. Argument
C. Definition
D. Example
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph narrates the story of Roosevelt’s journey to Brazil.
5. Learning
that Uncle Richard had once been in the Navy, I asked him why he signed up. “I
didn’t have much of a choice,” he said. “I was a junior in college in 1967,
during the Vietnam War, and the government was drafting people into the
military. I knew that I’d be drafted as soon as I graduated college. I had to
serve in one of the branches of the military, so I followed my love of the
ocean to the Navy, and I ended up seeing quite a bit of the world.”
A. Data, facts, historical or personal details
B. Division and Classification
C. Definition
D. Cause-effect
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph gives the reasons why Uncle Richard joined the Navy.
A. Data, facts, historical or personal details
B. Division and Classification
C. Definition
D. Cause-effect
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph gives the reasons why Uncle Richard joined the Navy.
6. Do
we have to wait for another terrible accident and more injuries? We need a
traffic light at the intersection of Main Street and Brand Avenue now. It has
been the most dangerous spot in town for years. As the town has grown, so has
the car traffic. The children crossing the street at that intersection take
their lives in their hands. A new traffic light will help us manage our growth
and not become a victim to it.
A. Descriptive
B. Argument
C. Process Analysis
D. Analysis
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph presents an argument for a new traffic light.
A. Descriptive
B. Argument
C. Process Analysis
D. Analysis
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph presents an argument for a new traffic light.
7. The
word geek has evolved in recent years. In common usage, geeks
used to be circus entertainers who performed strange acts, such as swallowing
live insects. However, some lexicographers believe that the word goes back much
further than that, including the use of geke in at least two of
Shakespeare’s plays to depict a fool who should be scorned. Today, people who
are technology experts or enthusiasts proudly call themselves geeks.
A. Definition
B. Comparison-contrast
C. Illustration
D. Narrative
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph defines the word geek.
A. Definition
B. Comparison-contrast
C. Illustration
D. Narrative
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph defines the word geek.
8. Benton
MacKaye is credited with first conceiving the idea of the Appalachian Trail
(A.T.) in 1921. The first section of the trail, which went from New York’s Bear
Mountain through Harriman State Park to the town of Arden, was opened on
October 7, 1923. Today the A.T. is 2,174 miles long, extending from Springer
Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. It passes through the states of
North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New
Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire. The
first end-to-end hike was accomplished in 1948 by Earl Shaffer of York,
Pennsylvania.
A. Division and classification
B. Definition
C. Data, facts, historical or personal details
D. Analysis
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph provides facts and historical details about the Appalachian Trail.
A. Division and classification
B. Definition
C. Data, facts, historical or personal details
D. Analysis
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph provides facts and historical details about the Appalachian Trail.
9. The
flag was snapping in the breeze, and the ice cracked as I carefully walked over
it. I had put on layer after layer of clothes to ward off the biting, frigid
wind, but it felt as though it were slicing right through me anyway. The smoke
from the chimneys and the odor of burning wood from fireplaces permeated the
air. As I slipped and fell on a patch of glare ice, I eagerly looked forward to
sipping hot chocolate in front of my own fireplace.
A. Cause-effect
B. Argument
C. Process analysis
D. Descriptive
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph describes being outside when it’s bitterly cold.
A. Cause-effect
B. Argument
C. Process analysis
D. Descriptive
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph describes being outside when it’s bitterly cold.
10. Sometimes
you can easily tell that Mariana and Heather are twins, and at other times you
cannot. Mariana is studious, usually even-tempered, and somewhat of a loner.
Heather, on the other hand, is an uneven student, wildly emotional, and always
surrounded by a group of people. Mariana is a careful driver who usually sticks
to the speed limit, but Heather is a reckless driver who frightens even her
bravest friends. At first, many people mistake the twins for one another, but
it becomes clear once they see the girls in action.
A. Division and classification
B. Comparison-contrast
C. Analysis
D. Illustration
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph compares and contrasts twin sisters.
A. Division and classification
B. Comparison-contrast
C. Analysis
D. Illustration
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph compares and contrasts twin sisters.
Identifying the main point and support 1 completed
Total score: 5 out of 10, 50%
Read
each of the following passages, and then choose the best answer for each of the
questions that addresses the passage.
Reality TV programs are not as honest as they seem to be and are harmful to viewers. First of all, they are not truly "real." Their scenarios are carefully planned, their participants are specially selected, and their videorecordings are edited for maximum impact on the audience. In addition, how "real" can people be when there are cameras surrounding them? These reality programs, in essence, steal viewing choices from the TV audience. Because of their vast popularity, they are so prevalent that they crowd out more intelligent and illuminating programming. The people in these shows are rude and disrespectful to one another. Watching a person being ridiculed is now a form of entertainment. Does this not rob the viewer of his or her own self-respect? On the other hand, some people who watch these programs say they provide light entertainment that is a welcome escape from the pressures of life. However, honest, respectful programming would certainly provide more positive relief for anyone than these tasteless so-called reality shows.
Which of the sentences from the paragraph above is the topic sentence?
Their scenarios are carefully planned, their participants are specially selected, and their videorecordings are edited for maximum impact on the audience.
Watching a person being ridiculed is now a form of entertainment.
Reality TV programs are not as honest as they seem to be and are harmful to viewers.
The people in these shows are rude and disrespectful to one another.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence states the main point of the paragraph.
Reality TV programs are not as honest as they seem to be and are harmful to viewers. First of all, they are not truly "real." Their scenarios are carefully planned, their participants are specially selected, and their videorecordings are edited for maximum impact on the audience. In addition, how "real" can people be when there are cameras surrounding them? These reality programs, in essence, steal viewing choices from the TV audience. Because of their vast popularity, they are so prevalent that they crowd out more intelligent and illuminating programming. The people in these shows are rude and disrespectful to one another. Watching a person being ridiculed is now a form of entertainment. Does this not rob the viewer of his or her own self-respect? On the other hand, some people who watch these programs say they provide light entertainment that is a welcome escape from the pressures of life. However, honest, respectful programming would certainly provide more positive relief for anyone than these tasteless so-called reality shows.
Which of the sentences from the paragraph above is the topic sentence?
Their scenarios are carefully planned, their participants are specially selected, and their videorecordings are edited for maximum impact on the audience.
Watching a person being ridiculed is now a form of entertainment.
Reality TV programs are not as honest as they seem to be and are harmful to viewers.
The people in these shows are rude and disrespectful to one another.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence states the main point of the paragraph.
Which
of the following sentences provides primary support in the paragraph above?
Watching a person being ridiculed is now a form of entertainment.
Because of their vast popularity, they are so prevalent that they crowd out more intelligent and illuminating programming.
Does this not rob the viewer of his or her own self-respect?
First of all, they are not truly "real."
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This sentence is a supporting detail, not an example of primary support. The correct answer is First of all, they are not truly "real."
Watching a person being ridiculed is now a form of entertainment.
Because of their vast popularity, they are so prevalent that they crowd out more intelligent and illuminating programming.
Does this not rob the viewer of his or her own self-respect?
First of all, they are not truly "real."
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This sentence is a supporting detail, not an example of primary support. The correct answer is First of all, they are not truly "real."
Which
of the following sentences is a supporting detail in the paragraph above?
These reality programs, in essence, steal viewing choices from the TV audience.
In addition, how "real" can people be when there are cameras surrounding them?
First of all, they are not truly "real."
Their scenarios are carefully planned, their participants are specially selected, and their videorecordings are edited for maximum impact on the audience.
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This is an example of primary support that explains the paragraph's main idea, not a supporting detail. The correct answer is In addition, how "real" can people actually be when there are cameras surrounding them?
These reality programs, in essence, steal viewing choices from the TV audience.
In addition, how "real" can people be when there are cameras surrounding them?
First of all, they are not truly "real."
Their scenarios are carefully planned, their participants are specially selected, and their videorecordings are edited for maximum impact on the audience.
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This is an example of primary support that explains the paragraph's main idea, not a supporting detail. The correct answer is In addition, how "real" can people actually be when there are cameras surrounding them?
Which
of the following sentences from the paragraph above does not provide primary or
secondary support for the topic sentence?
Their scenarios are carefully planned, their participants are specially selected, and their videorecordings are edited for maximum impact on the audience.
In addition, how "real" can people be when there are cameras surrounding them?
On the other hand, some people who watch these programs say they provide light entertainment that is a welcome escape from the pressures of life.
The people in these shows are rude and disrespectful to one another.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence does not provide either primary or secondary support for the topic sentence, and it does not belong in this paragraph.
Their scenarios are carefully planned, their participants are specially selected, and their videorecordings are edited for maximum impact on the audience.
In addition, how "real" can people be when there are cameras surrounding them?
On the other hand, some people who watch these programs say they provide light entertainment that is a welcome escape from the pressures of life.
The people in these shows are rude and disrespectful to one another.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence does not provide either primary or secondary support for the topic sentence, and it does not belong in this paragraph.
Which
of the following sentences would be a good alternative topic sentence for this
paragraph?
Reality TV programs are not especially truthful and are certainly not beneficial to their audiences.
Reality TV programs should not edit their footage for maximum impact on their audiences.
Many people find reality TV programs to be relaxing and insightful into the motivations of interesting people.
If a viewer doesn't like reality TV programs, he or she has plenty of other choices for viewing.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence would be a good alternative for the topic sentence because it makes the point that reality TV programs mislead in their claims of honesty and actually harm viewers.
Reality TV programs are not especially truthful and are certainly not beneficial to their audiences.
Reality TV programs should not edit their footage for maximum impact on their audiences.
Many people find reality TV programs to be relaxing and insightful into the motivations of interesting people.
If a viewer doesn't like reality TV programs, he or she has plenty of other choices for viewing.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence would be a good alternative for the topic sentence because it makes the point that reality TV programs mislead in their claims of honesty and actually harm viewers.
Life
was better fifty years ago, say many people who grew up in the 1950s. Elders
and those in authority were commonly respected without question, and many
people felt that the more other countries emulated the United States, the
better off they would be. People also felt safer then, with low crime rates and
no worries about terrorism in America. However, when deciding whether the
quality of life was really better fifty years ago, one should consider what is
most important to him or her. Take plain human comfort, for example. Most
everyone now has indoor bathrooms, but fifty years ago many homes only had
outhouses; also, central heating was rare. Washing clothes was a long,
laborious chore because there were no automatic washing machines. In addition,
women and members of minority groups were commonly relegated to second-class
citizenship or worse in both the workplace and the home. Scientists are even
exploring how much nicer the weather was in the 1950s than it is now.
Which of the sentences from the paragraph above is the topic sentence?
Life was better fifty years ago, say many people who grew up in the 1950s.
Take plain human comfort, for example.
In addition, women and members of minority groups were commonly relegated to second-class citizenship or worse in both the workplace and the home.
However, when deciding whether the quality of life was really better fifty years ago, one should consider what is most important to him or her.
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This sentence does not state the main point of the paragraph. The correct answer is However, when deciding whether the quality of life was really better fifty years ago, one should consider what is most important to him or her.
Which of the sentences from the paragraph above is the topic sentence?
Life was better fifty years ago, say many people who grew up in the 1950s.
Take plain human comfort, for example.
In addition, women and members of minority groups were commonly relegated to second-class citizenship or worse in both the workplace and the home.
However, when deciding whether the quality of life was really better fifty years ago, one should consider what is most important to him or her.
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This sentence does not state the main point of the paragraph. The correct answer is However, when deciding whether the quality of life was really better fifty years ago, one should consider what is most important to him or her.
Which
of the following sentences provides primary support in the paragraph above?
People also felt safer then, with low crime rates and no worries about terrorism in America.
Take plain human comfort, for example.
Washing clothes was a long, laborious chore because there were no automatic washing machines.
Most everyone now has indoor bathrooms, but fifty years ago many homes only had outhouses; also, central heating was rare.
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This sentence is a supporting detail, not an example of primary support. The correct answer is Take plain human comfort, for example.
People also felt safer then, with low crime rates and no worries about terrorism in America.
Take plain human comfort, for example.
Washing clothes was a long, laborious chore because there were no automatic washing machines.
Most everyone now has indoor bathrooms, but fifty years ago many homes only had outhouses; also, central heating was rare.
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This sentence is a supporting detail, not an example of primary support. The correct answer is Take plain human comfort, for example.
Which
of the following sentences is a supporting detail in the paragraph above?
In addition, women and members of minority groups were commonly relegated to second-class citizenship or worse in both the workplace and the home.
Take plain human comfort, for example.
Elders and those in authority were commonly respected without question, and many people felt that the more other countries emulated the United States, the better off they would be.
Life was better fifty years ago, say many people who grew up in the 1950s.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence is a supporting detail for the primary supporting sentence Life was better fifty years ago, say many people who grew up in the 1950s.
In addition, women and members of minority groups were commonly relegated to second-class citizenship or worse in both the workplace and the home.
Take plain human comfort, for example.
Elders and those in authority were commonly respected without question, and many people felt that the more other countries emulated the United States, the better off they would be.
Life was better fifty years ago, say many people who grew up in the 1950s.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence is a supporting detail for the primary supporting sentence Life was better fifty years ago, say many people who grew up in the 1950s.
Which
of the following sentences from the paragraph above does not provide primary or
secondary support for the topic sentence?
Scientists are even exploring how much nicer the weather was in the 1950s than it is now.
Washing clothes was a long, laborious chore because there were no automatic washing machines.
People also felt safer then, with low crime rates and no worries about terrorism in America.
Elders and those in authority were commonly respected without question, and many people felt that the more other countries emulated the United States, the better off they would be.
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This sentence is a supporting detail (secondary support). The correct answer is Scientists are even exploring how much nicer the weather was in the 1950s than it is now, which does not support the topic sentence and does not belong in the paragraph.
Scientists are even exploring how much nicer the weather was in the 1950s than it is now.
Washing clothes was a long, laborious chore because there were no automatic washing machines.
People also felt safer then, with low crime rates and no worries about terrorism in America.
Elders and those in authority were commonly respected without question, and many people felt that the more other countries emulated the United States, the better off they would be.
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This sentence is a supporting detail (secondary support). The correct answer is Scientists are even exploring how much nicer the weather was in the 1950s than it is now, which does not support the topic sentence and does not belong in the paragraph.
Which
of the following sentences would be a good alternative topic sentence for this
paragraph?
The quality of food was certainly better fifty years ago, although there are more choices of food today.
Some people would never be happy in any time period, whether it's fifty years ago, today, or fifty years from now.
Whether or not one believes the quality of life was better fifty years ago depends on the things one values the most.
It was a lot easier to be a sports fan fifty years ago than it is today because there were fewer teams to choose from.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence is a good alternative topic sentence for the paragraph because it makes the point that the things most important to a person determine whether the quality of life was better fifty years ago.
The quality of food was certainly better fifty years ago, although there are more choices of food today.
Some people would never be happy in any time period, whether it's fifty years ago, today, or fifty years from now.
Whether or not one believes the quality of life was better fifty years ago depends on the things one values the most.
It was a lot easier to be a sports fan fifty years ago than it is today because there were fewer teams to choose from.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence is a good alternative topic sentence for the paragraph because it makes the point that the things most important to a person determine whether the quality of life was better fifty years ago.
Paragraph supporting sentences completed
Total score: 8 out of 10, 80%
1. Cats
and dogs are quite different as pets. Cats are usually tolerant of apartment
living, willing to stay alone in the apartment while their person owner? is out
for most of the day. Conversely, dogs prefer to be with people and are not as
happy as cats to be alone for long periods. Cats are generally solitary
animals, whereas dogs are social and gregarious, preferring to be with their
pack. Most dogs are easy to train, but many people feel cats cannot be trained
at all. Both dogs and cats are wonderful pets, but the experience of having a
dog is very different from that of having a cat.
A. Contrasts
B. Examples
C. Facts
D. Stories
1 out of 1
Correct. The paragraph’s supporting sentences are contrasts pointing out the differences between cats and dogs as pets.
A. Contrasts
B. Examples
C. Facts
D. Stories
1 out of 1
Correct. The paragraph’s supporting sentences are contrasts pointing out the differences between cats and dogs as pets.
2. The
American Revolutionary War began in 1775 and ended with General Cornwallis’s
surrender at Yorktown, Virginia, in 1881. The war was fought between British
forces and Americans who were former colonists of Britain. The fighting
occurred primarily in the eastern portion of the present United States, but
also in the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and Caribbean Sea. The 1783
Treaty of Paris ended the war and established Britain’s recognition of the
United States as a sovereign nation.
A. Process
B. Examples
C. Facts
D. Comparisons
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are facts about the American Revolutionary War.
A. Process
B. Examples
C. Facts
D. Comparisons
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are facts about the American Revolutionary War.
3. The
members of my book club are probably the most diverse dressers in our entire
town. For instance, Alyson always looks as though she’s leaving on a safari.
Justin wears everything three sizes too large. Sean is so neat that, even when
he’s not wearing a coat and tie, he looks as though he’s wearing a coat and
tie. Perhaps the most interesting dresser is Alexia, who has never been seen
wearing the same outfit twice.
A. Reasons
B. Cause and effect
C. Comparisons
D. Examples
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are examples of the diverse dressers in a book club.
A. Reasons
B. Cause and effect
C. Comparisons
D. Examples
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are examples of the diverse dressers in a book club.
4. Call
me boring, but my new car is very much like the car it replaced. First of all,
both cars are made by the same company, and both are convertibles. They are
each fuel efficient, though neither has a powerful engine suitable for racing.
My old car lasted fourteen years, and I expect to get at least that much use
out of the new one. Finally, both cars are a glossy, brilliant yellow.
A. Comparison
B. Process
C. Story
D. Reasons
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are comparisons listing the similarities between a new car and the car it replaced.
A. Comparison
B. Process
C. Story
D. Reasons
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are comparisons listing the similarities between a new car and the car it replaced.
5. Gerald
said a sad experience has taught him never to loan his books to anyone again.
Once he loaned his favorite book, James Joyce’s Ulysses, to his best
friend Cameron, who was writing a paper on Joyce. Months after the paper was
done, Cameron still hadn’t returned the book. When Gerald asked Cameron about
it, Cameron would always apologize but always neglect to return the book. To
this day, Cameron still has Gerald’s Ulysses, but Cameron and Gerald are
no longer friends.
A. Process
B. Story
C. Contrasts
D. Comparisons
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This paragraph’s supporting sentences consist of a story depicting why two people are no longer friends because of the failure to return a loaned book.
A. Process
B. Story
C. Contrasts
D. Comparisons
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This paragraph’s supporting sentences consist of a story depicting why two people are no longer friends because of the failure to return a loaned book.
6. Our
all-woman chorus has been a wonderful experience for us all, but it is now time
for us to open the chorus to male singers as well. After presenting numerous
concerts, it is becoming difficult to find musical pieces written for all-woman
choruses although many more pieces are available for combined choruses. In
addition, having basses and baritones will significantly enhance our sound. Perhaps
most important, admitting only women has limited our growth, and now we can
look forward to at least doubling our size.
A. Examples
B. Process
C. Story
D. Reasons
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are reasons to admit men to a formerly all-woman chorus.
A. Examples
B. Process
C. Story
D. Reasons
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are reasons to admit men to a formerly all-woman chorus.
7. Oranges
are easy to peel if you do it my way. Begin by cutting a circle around the
orange’s stem, but cut gently without going deeper than the skin. Then,
starting at that circle, cut several vertical strips on the orange, again not
going deeper than the skin. Use the knife to remove the circled part around the
stem. Finally, simply peel each strip off with your fingers.
A. Process
B. Contrasts
C. Comparisons
D. Facts
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences explain the process of peeling an orange.
A. Process
B. Contrasts
C. Comparisons
D. Facts
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences explain the process of peeling an orange.
8. The
atmosphere at this office, which used to be tense and stressful, has eased
considerably. Many of us believe this change is due to a significant relaxation
of the company’s once-rigid rules. Now, each worker can arrange his or her
specific work schedule, including at-home work days, as long as the work is
completed. People dress as they please: tee-shirts and jeans are totally
acceptable. Employees even bring their children and dogs to work, as long as
they don’t disrupt other workers. As a result, the company’s productivity and
profitability have considerably increased.
A. Facts
B. Story
C. Cause and effect
D. Process
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences depict a cause (relaxation of company rules) and effect (increased productivity and profitability).
A. Facts
B. Story
C. Cause and effect
D. Process
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences depict a cause (relaxation of company rules) and effect (increased productivity and profitability).
9. The
Oxford English Dictionary contains more than 300,000 main entries. It has
37,000 pronunciations, 249,300 etymologies, 577,000 cross-references, and
2,412,400 illustrative quotations. The latest complete printed version of the
dictionary consists of 21,730 pages. The initial portion of the dictionary’s
first edition was published on February 1, 1884, twenty-three years after work
was begun.
A. Cause and effect
B. Reasons
C. Comparing
D. Facts
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are facts about the Oxford English Dictionary.
A. Cause and effect
B. Reasons
C. Comparing
D. Facts
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are facts about the Oxford English Dictionary.
10. For
many people, weekends are a time to take it easy, but my weekends have been
extremely hectic lately. Last weekend began with my editor calling me at 9:00
a.m. on Saturday to research and write an article that was due at noon that
day. After submitting the article, I had to jump in my car and drive a hundred
miles to pick up Chris from college and bring him back here (home?). On Sunday,
it was my turn to shop for and cook dinner for all my housemates. When I
finally got to bed late Sunday night, I eagerly looked forward to Monday
through Friday, when I could relax.
A. Examples
B. Cause and effect
C. Comparison
D. Process
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are examples of why weekends have been extremely hectic for the writer.
A. Examples
B. Cause and effect
C. Comparison
D. Process
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This paragraph’s supporting sentences are examples of why weekends have been extremely hectic for the writer.
Improving unity, support, and coherence 1 completed
Total score: 7 out of 8, 88%
Read
each of the following passages, and then choose the best answer for each of the
questions that addresses the passage.
(1) Being on a plane is a noisy experience. (2) One remedy that some passengers use is noise-reduction earphones. (3) __________, these headphones were then adapted for use by civilian pilots to help reduce noise and improve communications. (4) Later, they made their way to the consumer market, and now they are even offered by airlines to help their passengers travel in comfort. (5) Indeed, a comfortable flight is getting harder and harder to find these days. (6) Noise- reduction earphones have microphones. (7) Once the noise is picked up by the microphone, it is fed to the headset's internal microprocessor. (8) __________, the processor generates a sound signal that is the opposite of the incoming sound frequency, thus canceling out the sound. (9) A person can also pipe in music from a portable music or DVD player, and the headset is smart enough not to cancel out this desired sound.
Which sentence is off the point of the paragraph?
Sentence 2
Sentence 9
Sentence 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 5 is not relevant to this paragraph's main point—the advantages of noise-reduction earphones on airplanes.
(1) Being on a plane is a noisy experience. (2) One remedy that some passengers use is noise-reduction earphones. (3) __________, these headphones were then adapted for use by civilian pilots to help reduce noise and improve communications. (4) Later, they made their way to the consumer market, and now they are even offered by airlines to help their passengers travel in comfort. (5) Indeed, a comfortable flight is getting harder and harder to find these days. (6) Noise- reduction earphones have microphones. (7) Once the noise is picked up by the microphone, it is fed to the headset's internal microprocessor. (8) __________, the processor generates a sound signal that is the opposite of the incoming sound frequency, thus canceling out the sound. (9) A person can also pipe in music from a portable music or DVD player, and the headset is smart enough not to cancel out this desired sound.
Which sentence is off the point of the paragraph?
Sentence 2
Sentence 9
Sentence 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 5 is not relevant to this paragraph's main point—the advantages of noise-reduction earphones on airplanes.
Which
transition, inserted into Sentence 3, would aid coherence?
At first rejected by passengers
Originally developed for military use
An amazing invention
1 out of 1
Correct. This transition smoothly leads to the later phrase in the sentence were then adapted for use by civilian pilots.
At first rejected by passengers
Originally developed for military use
An amazing invention
1 out of 1
Correct. This transition smoothly leads to the later phrase in the sentence were then adapted for use by civilian pilots.
Which
transition, inserted into Sentence 8, would aid coherence?
After this
Therefore
Without question
1 out of 1
Correct. This transition leads the reader to the next step in the operation of the earphones.
After this
Therefore
Without question
1 out of 1
Correct. This transition leads the reader to the next step in the operation of the earphones.
Which
sentence would provide the best support for Sentence 6?
These sensitive microphones are what sets noise-reduction earphones apart.
The microphones are located in each ear cup, and they pick up outside noise just before it reaches the ears.
The person wearing the earphones is therefore able to use them to transmit his or her voice as well as to listen through them.
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This sentence does not give more details about the idea introduced in Sentence 6. The correct answer is The microphones are located in each ear cup, and they pick up outside noise just before it reaches the ears.
These sensitive microphones are what sets noise-reduction earphones apart.
The microphones are located in each ear cup, and they pick up outside noise just before it reaches the ears.
The person wearing the earphones is therefore able to use them to transmit his or her voice as well as to listen through them.
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This sentence does not give more details about the idea introduced in Sentence 6. The correct answer is The microphones are located in each ear cup, and they pick up outside noise just before it reaches the ears.
(1)
Mosquitoes have always been an annoyance to humans. (2) However, with the
presence in the United States of West Nile virus and fierce Asian tiger
mosquitoes, any way of avoiding these pests has become increasingly important.
(3) __________, many homeowners may be interested to know about a recently
patented birdbath that kills mosquito eggs. (4) A birdbath is essentially a
pool of standing water. (5) Mosquitoes have in common with most insects the
ability to lay many eggs at one time. (6) Operating on batteries, solar power,
or electricity, the birdbath is equipped with a small computer chip. (7)
__________, this chip instructs a pump to flush out the birdbath's water. (8)
Then, the water is forced through a fine-mesh filter. (9) Any mosquito eggs in
the water are crushed as they go through the filter.
Which sentence is off the point of the paragraph?
Sentence 2
Sentence 8
Sentence 5
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence is not relevant to the main idea of the paragraph—a new way of killing mosquito eggs.
Which sentence is off the point of the paragraph?
Sentence 2
Sentence 8
Sentence 5
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence is not relevant to the main idea of the paragraph—a new way of killing mosquito eggs.
Which
transition, inserted into Sentence 3, would aid coherence?
Therefore
Also
Meanwhile
1 out of 1
Correct. This transition communicates the idea "as a result," which smoothly leads into the rest of the sentence.
Therefore
Also
Meanwhile
1 out of 1
Correct. This transition communicates the idea "as a result," which smoothly leads into the rest of the sentence.
Which
transition, inserted into Sentence 7, would aid coherence?
At the bottom
Every few days
Nevertheless
1 out of 1
Correct. This transition smoothly leads into the rest of the sentence to help describe the operation of the birdbath.
At the bottom
Every few days
Nevertheless
1 out of 1
Correct. This transition smoothly leads into the rest of the sentence to help describe the operation of the birdbath.
Which
sentence would provide the best support for Sentence 4?
Standing water is precisely where mosquitoes prefer to lay their eggs.
This is why birds find birdbaths to be nonthreatening and excellent sources of water.
Birdbaths, however, come in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence explains the importance of standing water, which is introduced in Sentence 4.
Standing water is precisely where mosquitoes prefer to lay their eggs.
This is why birds find birdbaths to be nonthreatening and excellent sources of water.
Birdbaths, however, come in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
1 out of 1
Correct. This sentence explains the importance of standing water, which is introduced in Sentence 4.
Paragraph arrangement of details completed
Total score: 8 out of 10, 80%
1. To
get myself up in the morning, I almost always follow the same ritual. When the
alarm goes off, I usually hit “snooze” for a few cycles. I then get out of bed
and do my stretching exercises. Next is my shower, which is when I really start
waking up. Finally, I have a hearty breakfast of cooked cereal.
A. Least to most important
B. Chronological
C. Spatial—front to back
D. Specific to general
1 out of 1
Correct. The paragraph arranges its sentences chronologically, detailing the writer’s morning ritual.
A. Least to most important
B. Chronological
C. Spatial—front to back
D. Specific to general
1 out of 1
Correct. The paragraph arranges its sentences chronologically, detailing the writer’s morning ritual.
2. Ken
planted his backyard garden according to how much sun each spot received. On
the left were his prairie plants, the ones that got full sun nearly all day. In
the middle was his native forest, which consisted of shrubs, bushes, and trees
that got full sun for much but not all of the day. On the right were his
shade-loving plants, which got sun for only a few hours in the morning.
A. Chronological
B. Most to least important
C. Specific to general
D. Spatial—side to side
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph describes the garden spatially, from left side to right side.
A. Chronological
B. Most to least important
C. Specific to general
D. Spatial—side to side
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph describes the garden spatially, from left side to right side.
3. When
Mr. Ferris taught Driver Training, he began by focusing on the car, not the
driver. He stressed that a well-maintained car is a car that can be trusted.
Then he guided each of us through the steps of parking a car. He spent a lot of
time making sure we knew the rules of the road. However, the lesson he made
sure we understood was that we should drive carefully, safely, and defensively.
A. Least to most important
B. Most to least important
C. Chronological
D. Spatial—top to bottom
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This paragraph arranges the points of driving in the order of least to most important (maintaining a car to driving safely).
A. Least to most important
B. Most to least important
C. Chronological
D. Spatial—top to bottom
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This paragraph arranges the points of driving in the order of least to most important (maintaining a car to driving safely).
4. Aunt
Caroline is unusual in that she hates technology. She especially hates what
technology has done to the tools of writing. She regularly remarks that using
plain, old-fashioned writing implements helps us to keep our priorities where
they belong—on thinking and writing, not on the tools. She especially hates
computers, always preferring to jot down her thoughts by hand.
A. Spatial—side to side
B. Chronological
C. General to specific
D. Most to least important
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph arranges its points in order of general to specific (technology to writing by hand).
A. Spatial—side to side
B. Chronological
C. General to specific
D. Most to least important
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph arranges its points in order of general to specific (technology to writing by hand).
5. Wanting
to be sure her trip got started with no problems, Alyssa arrived at the airport
two hours before her flight was due to depart. She checked her bags and got her
boarding pass. Then, she waited in a long line to go through the security
screeners. Just before Alyssa got to the detecting scanners, she took off her
shoes and put them in a container to be scanned separately. Finally, when she
was through security, she sat down to wait for the call to board.
A. Most to least important
B. Specific to general
C. Spatial—back to front
D. Chronological
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph arranges its sentences in chronological order (arriving early at the airport to waiting for the call to board).
A. Most to least important
B. Specific to general
C. Spatial—back to front
D. Chronological
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph arranges its sentences in chronological order (arriving early at the airport to waiting for the call to board).
6. By
electing Eric president of our club, we’ll now have a strong and effective
leader. He is open to the possibility of change, which many members feel is
essential at this time. In addition, Eric’s election prevented Caitlin, a
proponent of keeping things as they are, from becoming president. Now, we can
take a break from the electoral infighting and relax a little.
A. Most to least important
B. General to specific
C. Chronological
D. Spatial—side to side
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph arranges its sentences in the order of most to least important (from having a strong leader to taking a break).
A. Most to least important
B. General to specific
C. Chronological
D. Spatial—side to side
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph arranges its sentences in the order of most to least important (from having a strong leader to taking a break).
7. Katherine
loves to wash her new car,. She always starts with the roof. Only after she has
lathered, scrubbed, and then washed down the roof does she get to the windows.
After lathering and rinsing the windows, she then moves down to a thorough
cleaning of the sides of the car. Finally, she carefully cleans and wipes down
the front and rear bumpers and the hub caps.
A. Specific to general
B. Spatial—top to bottom
C. Spatial—front to back
D. Least to most important
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph describes spatially how Katherine cleans her car from top to bottom.
A. Specific to general
B. Spatial—top to bottom
C. Spatial—front to back
D. Least to most important
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph describes spatially how Katherine cleans her car from top to bottom.
8. When
Dane, our night manager, closed the store an hour early last night, it was the
only time we’ve ever closed early. The early closure didn’t allow our stocking
clerks to finish replenishing the shelves with products, but that has happened
before. What was worse is that several customers came to the store during that
last hour, and those people are losing trust in our store hours and, therefore,
our reliability. Most important of all is that rules need to be followed, and
precisely keeping to our store hours makes for good business.
A. Specific to general
B. Chronological
C. Most to least important
D. General to specific
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph arranges its sentences from specific (closing an hour early one night) to general (rules need to be followed).
A. Specific to general
B. Chronological
C. Most to least important
D. General to specific
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph arranges its sentences from specific (closing an hour early one night) to general (rules need to be followed).
9. I’m
not upset because you forgot to mail my letter and then were too embarrassed to
tell me you forgot. It’s not even that it was my car payment that you didn’t
mail. Of course, now I’ll have to pay a rather hefty late fee on my car
payment. What really bothers me is that you were inconsiderate to me, your
roommate and best friend; that hurts.
A. Spatial—bottom to top
B. General to specific
C. Least to most important
D. Chronological
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph arranges its sentences from least important (forgetting to mail the letter) to most important (inconsiderate to a friend).
A. Spatial—bottom to top
B. General to specific
C. Least to most important
D. Chronological
1 out of 1
Correct. This paragraph arranges its sentences from least important (forgetting to mail the letter) to most important (inconsiderate to a friend).
10. I
know that people can be selfish. We’ve all been selfish at times. I can think
of many instances when I’ve thought of myself before I’ve considered others.
But last night, when I forgot my jacket at the movie theater, was the worst. As
I ran back to retrieve my jacket, I saw that the guy who was about to sit in
the seat I’d just had was trying on my jacket to see if it fit him.
A. Spatial—side to side
B. Chronological
C. Least to most important
D. General to specific
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This paragraph arranges its sentences from general (people can be selfish) to specific (guy trying on my jacket).
A. Spatial—side to side
B. Chronological
C. Least to most important
D. General to specific
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. This paragraph arranges its sentences from general (people can be selfish) to specific (guy trying on my jacket).
Paragraph unity completed
Total score: 9 out of 10, 90%
1. (1)
When it comes to music, my aunt Jenna is something of an oddball. (2) All of
her friends like indie rock and classic rock, but Jenna has a different
preference. (3) She loves classical music. (4) She’s always had a mind of her
own. (5) Her CD player constantly plays the top hits of the 1600s and 1700s.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 4 is off the topic of the paragraph, Jenna’s preference in music.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 4 is off the topic of the paragraph, Jenna’s preference in music.
2. (1)
Last summer, my buddy Stephen and I participated in a survey of invasive
plants. (2) Stephen frequently volunteers for projects like this one , but I
seldom do. (3) We were assigned a specific section of a hiking trail that was
about an hour from where we lived. (4) Stephen and I had to note the occurrence
of specific invasive plants from a list we were given. (5) We spotted mostly
purple loosestrife and garlic mustard. (6) The survey will be repeated next year
to compare the results.
A. 2
B. 3
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 2 is off the topic of the paragraph, participation in a survey of invasive plants.
A. 2
B. 3
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 2 is off the topic of the paragraph, participation in a survey of invasive plants.
3. Andrea
and Lily had been the best of friends for years, so they decided to become
roommates as well. (2) The experience went badly almost from the very
beginning. (3) Andrea was extremely neat and organized; Lily was just the
opposite. (4) They both took their jobs very seriously and often worked long
hours. (5) As soon as Lily came home from work, she would spread out on the
floor to watch TV and leave a mess when she got back up. (6) Andrea got so
upset about Lily’s continual messiness that Andrea eventually moved out.
A. 3
B. 4
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 4 is off the topic of the paragraph, the contrasting neatness and sloppiness of two roommates.
A. 3
B. 4
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 4 is off the topic of the paragraph, the contrasting neatness and sloppiness of two roommates.
4. (1)
Somehow, volcanoes grab our attention like nothing else. (2) The Indonesian
volcanic island group called Krakatoa had erupted many times throughout
recorded history but never as violently as in 1883. (3) Krakatoa began a series
of eruptions on August 26, and at 10:02 a.m. on August 27, it destroyed itself
in a cataclysmic explosion. (4) The explosion shot up 25 cubic kilometers of
rock, ash, and pumice. (5) The ash was propelled to a height of 80 kilometers.
(6) The final eruption may have been the loudest sound in recorded history. (7)
It was heard in Australia, 2,200 miles away, and near Mauritius, approximately
3,000 miles away.
A. 1
B. 3
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 1 is off the topic of the paragraph, the eruption of Krakatoa.
A. 1
B. 3
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 1 is off the topic of the paragraph, the eruption of Krakatoa.
5. (1)
One of April’s favorite hobbies is photography. (2) She figured she must have
spent thousands of dollars over the years on film and developing. (3) She has
also spent even more money on clothes. (4) She finally decided it was time for
her to go digital. (5) April researched all of the digital cameras in her price
range and finally settled on one. (6) Now, she no longer buys film or
developing, but she has to make sure she has enough computer memory to store
all of her new photos.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 3 is off the topic of the paragraph, April’s decision to switch to digital photography.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 3 is off the topic of the paragraph, April’s decision to switch to digital photography.
6. (1)
Like many people I know, I am a coffee addict. (2) That may sound like a strong
statement, but I believe it is an addiction. (3) If I don’t have my coffee in
the morning, I feel off balance for the entire day. (4) Coffee wakes me up and
helps me to think clearly. (5) Clear thinking is something I prize highly. (6)
However, having too much coffee makes me jittery.
A. 1
B. 3
C. 4
D. 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 5 is off the topic of the paragraph, the writer’s need for coffee.
A. 1
B. 3
C. 4
D. 5
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 5 is off the topic of the paragraph, the writer’s need for coffee.
7. (1)
Matt’s favorite form of communication is instant messaging. (2) He is often in
the library instant messaging even as he does his research and studies. (3) He
knows it is important to stay focused on a subject. (4) Matt has dozens of
friends with whom he exchanges messages. (5) He never sends instant messages
during his classes, though.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 3 is off the topic of the paragraph, Matt’s use of instant messaging.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 3 is off the topic of the paragraph, Matt’s use of instant messaging.
8. (1)
The incandescent light bulb has been the most commonly used type of light bulb
for decades. (2) Many people avoid buying compact fluorescent light bulbs
because compact fluorescents cost more than incandescent bulbs. (2) However, a
compact fluorescent’s efficiency makes up for the initially higher cost within
about 500 hours of use. (3) While an incandescent bulb typically lasts for 500
to 2,000 hours, compact fluorescents are usually guaranteed for 8,000 hours.
(4) In addition, compact fluorescents save a lot of energy. (5) For example, a
15-watt compact fluorescent produces the same amount of light, 900 lumens, as a
60-watt incandescent bulb.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 4
D. 5
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. Sentence 1 is off the topic of the paragraph, the advantages of compact fluorescent light bulbs over incandescent bulbs.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 4
D. 5
0 out of 1
Sorry, that response is incorrect. Sentence 1 is off the topic of the paragraph, the advantages of compact fluorescent light bulbs over incandescent bulbs.
9. (1)
Marisa exercises every night by taking a long walk. (2) She walks at a brisk
pace with her dog, Frieda, for three miles. (3) At first, Frieda was hesitant
to walk that far with Marisa. (4) Nevertheless, the dog soon got used to it.
(5) With all that exercise, Marisa and Frieda are both trim and fit. (6) Marisa
also regularly takes Frieda to the vet for checkups.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 6 is off the topic of the paragraph, Marisa’s and Frieda’s walking for exercise.
A. 1
B. 2
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 6 is off the topic of the paragraph, Marisa’s and Frieda’s walking for exercise.
10. (1)
The instructions to our home’s heating boiler say that the air filter must be
cleaned once a month during the heating season. (2) The problem is that I am
terrified to touch anything on the heating boiler. (3) Once I broke a toaster
while I was trying to clean it. (4) I solved the problem by calling in the
boiler technician to give the equipment a pre-winter check. (5) At that time, I
asked her to teach me how to clean the air filter. (6) I carefully wrote down
the instructions, and now I clean the air filter regularly, although I’m always
a little nervous when I do it.
A. 3
B. 4
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 3 is off the topic of the paragraph, how the writer overcame the fear of cleaning the boiler’s air filter.
A. 3
B. 4
C. 5
D. 6
1 out of 1
Correct. Sentence 3 is off the topic of the paragraph, how the writer overcame the fear of cleaning the boiler’s air filter.
