Reasoning Through Language Arts Writing Flashcards

Which transition word best signals a contrast between two ideas?

Answer: Nevertheless

'Nevertheless' signals that something is true despite a contrasting or opposing point.

In the sentence 'Each of the students have completed their assignments,' what is the grammatical error?

Answer: Subject-verb disagreement — 'have' should be 'has'

The subject 'each' is singular and requires the singular verb 'has,' not the plural 'have.'

Which sentence uses parallel structure correctly?

Answer: They decided to plan the trip, book hotels, and purchase tickets.

All three items — 'plan,' 'book,' and 'purchase' — use the same infinitive form, creating correct parallel structure.

Which of the following best describes the purpose of using evidence in a GED extended response essay?

Answer: To support the argument with specific facts, examples, or reasoning from the source text

Evidence from the source text supports your argument, making it more credible and logically sound.

Which sentence correctly uses a comma to set off a nonessential clause?

Answer: My sister, who lives in Denver, is visiting next week.

The clause 'who lives in Denver' is nonessential information and is correctly set off by commas.

A student writes: 'The article argues that solar energy is cost-effective. This is a good point.' Which revision strengthens the analysis?

Answer: The article argues that solar energy is cost-effective; this supports the claim that renewable investments reduce long-term energy bills.

Explaining how the evidence connects to a larger claim demonstrates analytical thinking rather than simply restating the source.

Which of the following sentences is written in active voice?

Answer: The committee approved the new budget.

In 'The committee approved the new budget,' the subject (committee) performs the action (approved), making it active voice.