Essay Writing Flashcards
7 cards from real TSIA2 practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Essay Writing flashcards as text
Which sentence is an example of a complex sentence?
Answer: Although the study was small, its findings were significant.
A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause joined by a subordinating conjunction.
A student argues that standardized testing should be abolished. Which piece of evidence would MOST weaken this argument?
Answer: Research showing that standardized tests reliably predict college success across socioeconomic groups
Evidence that tests reliably predict college success directly challenges the case for abolishing them.
What does it mean to 'develop' an idea in a body paragraph?
Answer: Provide explanation, examples, and analysis that elaborate on the topic sentence
Development means explaining your evidence and connecting it to your argument, not just presenting raw facts.
Which revision best eliminates the run-on sentence: 'Climate change is accelerating, scientists are deeply concerned, governments must act immediately.'
Answer: Because climate change is accelerating, scientists are deeply concerned and urge governments to act immediately.
Using a subordinating clause ('because') and combining related ideas into one clear sentence eliminates the comma splice run-on.
Which type of appeal does this sentence use: 'As a nurse who has watched patients suffer from vaccine-preventable diseases, I urge you to vaccinate your children.'
Answer: Ethos — an appeal to the writer's credibility and expertise
Citing professional experience ('as a nurse') establishes the speaker's authority, which is an ethos appeal.
What is the best strategy for handling a writing prompt you find challenging on the TSIA2?
Answer: Spend 2–3 minutes brainstorming and outlining before writing
Brief planning before writing helps organize ideas and ensures the essay stays focused and coherent.
Which sentence uses parallel structure correctly?
Answer: The program teaches students to read critically, write persuasively, and speak confidently.
Parallel structure requires matching grammatical forms; all three items use infinitive phrases ('to read,' 'to write,' 'to speak').