NJSLA NJSLA Research and Informational Writing 3

Question 1

A student is writing a research essay and finds two sources that contradict each other. What is the best strategy?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge both perspectives and explain the disagreement using additional evidence

Answer

Use only the source that agrees with the thesis and ignore the other

Answer

Quote both sources back-to-back without comment

Answer

Remove the topic from the essay entirely

Question 2

What does domain-specific vocabulary mean in the context of informational writing?

Accepted Answer

Technical terms related to the specific subject being discussed

Answer

Simple everyday words used to explain complex ideas

Answer

Words borrowed from other languages

Answer

Transition words that connect paragraphs

Question 3

Which sentence uses a formal tone appropriate for an informational essay?

Accepted Answer

Research indicates that regular exercise significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Answer

Working out a lot is super good for your heart, everyone knows that.

Answer

Like, going to the gym helps your heart and stuff.

Answer

Exercise = healthy heart, it's pretty obvious.

Question 4

What is the difference between a primary source and a secondary source?

Accepted Answer

A primary source is an original document or firsthand account; a secondary source analyzes or interprets primary sources.

Answer

A primary source is always more reliable than a secondary source.

Answer

A secondary source is written by the original author; a primary source is a summary.

Answer

A primary source is a textbook; a secondary source is a newspaper article.

Question 5

A student writes: 'The new recycling policy will solve all environmental problems.' This statement is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Overgeneralization

Answer

A strong thesis

Answer

A supporting detail

Answer

A counter-argument

Question 6

When writing a research-based informational essay for NJSLA, what should body paragraphs include?

Accepted Answer

A topic sentence, supporting evidence with citations, analysis, and a concluding sentence

Answer

Only direct quotes from sources with no student commentary

Answer

A personal opinion followed by a question for the reader

Answer

A list of facts with no explanatory sentences