Which of the following choices is NOT an appropriate way to express an opinion in a formal debate?
- A. There are still many arguments concerning the nature of space-time, including whether Einstein's theory of relativity is applicable in every natural situation.
- B. The study of climate science is an ever-evolving field, but it is important to recognize that the tools being utilized have been tested in other fields.
- C. Energy independence is an important topic that needs to be addressed in a thoughtful, careful manner that considers the far-reaching impact of any proposed changes.
- D. It is the height of hypocrisy to acknowledge that global warming is a problem and then still tool around in a gas-guzzling vehicle.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In a formal debate, it is essential to maintain a respectful and professional tone when expressing opinions. Choice D uses hyperbolic language like 'height of hypocrisy,' which is inappropriate for a formal setting. It is important to avoid personal attacks or extreme statements that can detract from the credibility of the argument. Choices A, B, and C present opinions in a more neutral and respectful manner, focusing on discussing the topic without resorting to emotional or accusatory language. Therefore, choice D is the correct answer as it does not align with the standards of formal debate etiquette.
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What are the five basic elements of the writing process?
- A. Prewriting, drafting, conferencing, revision, editing
- B. Brainstorming, outlining, writing, peer-review, researching
- C. Researching, prewriting, writing, brainstorming, conferencing
- D. Prewriting, writing, revising, researching, proofreading
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Prewriting, drafting, conferencing, revision, editing. In the writing process, prewriting involves planning and brainstorming ideas, drafting is the stage where you put your ideas into writing, conferencing refers to seeking feedback or discussing the work, revision involves making changes to improve the content and structure, and editing focuses on correcting grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. The other choices are incorrect because they either include elements that are not part of the standard writing process (such as peer-review and outlining) or they mix up the order of the stages (such as researching before prewriting).
Which of the following is an example of a correctly punctuated sentence?
- A. Beatrice is very intelligent; however, she just does not apply herself well enough in her classes to make good grades.
- B. Beatrice is very intelligent: she just does not apply herself well enough in her classes to make good grades.
- C. Beatrice is very intelligent; she just does not apply herself well enough in her classes to make good grades.
- D. Beatrice is very intelligent; she just does not apply herself well enough in her classes to make good grades.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Option D is the correct answer as it uses a semicolon to correctly separate two independent clauses. In this sentence, 'Beatrice is very intelligent' and 'she just does not apply herself well enough in her classes to make good grades' are two independent clauses that are related but can stand alone as separate sentences. The semicolon is the appropriate punctuation mark to link these two closely related ideas. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they either use a comma splice (A), a colon (B), or lack appropriate punctuation (C) to separate the independent clauses.
Julia is writing an essay about the influence of technology on interpersonal relationships. Which of the following sentences would NOT be a relevant supporting detail?
- A. Studies show that the more teenagers engage in social media, the less they engage with their peers.
- B. College students study and work on homework an average of 4-6 hours a day.
- C. Use of technology such as smartphones can lead to a lack of engagement in conversations.
- D. Some psychologists think that watching TV activates the same part of the brain as having an in-depth conversation.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In an essay focusing on the impact of technology on interpersonal relationships, details about college students' study habits and homework workload are not directly related to the influence of technology on relationships. Choices A, C, and D are more relevant as they directly address the impact of technology, such as social media engagement, smartphone usage affecting conversations, and the comparison between TV-watching and brain activity during conversations.
Which of the basic elements of the writing process should be completed before the first draft is written?
- A. Prewriting
- B. Revising
- C. Conferencing
- D. Editing
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Prewriting.' Prewriting is the initial stage of the writing process where ideas are brainstormed, organized, and outlined before starting the first draft. This step involves activities such as researching, outlining, and planning the structure and content of the writing. Revising (Choice B), conferencing (Choice C), and editing (Choice D) are all important stages in the writing process, but they come after the initial prewriting phase. Revising involves making changes to the content, structure, and organization of the draft; conferencing involves getting feedback from peers or instructors; and editing focuses on correcting grammar, punctuation, and formatting errors. Therefore, prewriting is crucial as it lays the foundation for a successful writing process.
Which of the answer choices is an effective revision of the ambiguous sentence below? Tanya told her sister to tell her boyfriend Joe to call her as soon as he got home.
- A. Tanya's sister said, 'Tell Joe to call me as soon as he gets home.'
- B. Her sister told her boyfriend Joe to call Tanya as soon as he got home.
- C. Tanya said to her sister, 'Tell your boyfriend Joe to call me as soon as he gets home.'
- D. Tanya told her sister, 'Joe should call me as soon as he gets home.'
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer, option C, effectively clarifies the communication structure by specifying who is communicating with whom and when. Tanya instructs her sister to convey a message to her boyfriend Joe, requesting him to call Tanya upon his arrival home. This revision removes the ambiguity present in the original sentence. Option A is incorrect as it introduces unnecessary complexity and alters the original meaning. Option B is incorrect as it misinterprets the relationships among the individuals involved. Option D is incorrect as it changes the dynamics of the communication and does not address the ambiguity in the original sentence.