Writing Excellence Flashcards
7 cards from real TMU practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Writing Excellence flashcards as text
Which element is most essential to a well-developed argumentative essay?
Answer: A clear thesis supported by evidence and logical reasoning
Argumentative essays require a defensible thesis backed by credible evidence and sound reasoning to persuade a critical academic audience.
What is the rhetorical effect of anaphora in persuasive writing?
Answer: It builds rhythm and emphasis by repeating a phrase at the beginning of successive clauses
Anaphora — repetition of a phrase at the start of successive clauses — creates emphasis and emotional resonance in persuasive writing.
A peer reviewer suggests a paragraph 'lacks sufficient development.' What should the writer do?
Answer: Add specific examples, evidence, or analysis to support the topic sentence
Underdeveloped paragraphs need concrete support — adding examples, data, or analysis fulfills the expectation of adequate paragraph development.
Which sentence avoids the use of a cliché?
Answer: The athlete's relentless training rewired her perception of failure into fuel.
Option B uses original, figurative language rather than overused expressions, making the writing more fresh and engaging.
In the revision stage of writing, which task should a writer prioritize first?
Answer: Evaluating the overall argument, structure, and development of ideas
Revision addresses higher-order concerns (argument, organization, development) before lower-order concerns like grammar and formatting.
Which sentence correctly integrates a quotation?
Answer: Smith argues that 'the study revealed significant disparities' (2019, p. 45).
A properly integrated quotation includes a signal phrase, the quoted text in quotation marks, and a parenthetical citation.
What distinguishes deductive reasoning from inductive reasoning in essay writing?
Answer: Deductive reasoning moves from a general principle to a specific conclusion
Deductive reasoning begins with a general premise and draws a specific conclusion, while inductive reasoning builds general conclusions from specific evidence.