This quiz works best with JavaScript enabled.
Home
>
English Grammar
>
Grammar
>
Academic Writing
>
Essay Outline – Quiz 2
Essay Outline Quiz 2 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates students' understanding of essay outline structures, including introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. It covers various types of essays such as argumentative, expository, and persuasive writing, focusing on thesis statement development, topic sentences, and proper citation formats.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
Which is an example of a "Call to Action" ?
A) You should vote at the next meeting.
B) However, cell phones are distracting.
C) First, Oprah Winfrey comes from a small town in the south and will be inspiring for students that have a similar background.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A call to action (CTA) is a directive that prompts the reader to perform a specific task, such as voting in this case. Option A directly encourages the reader to take an action ("You should vote at the next meeting"), making it a clear example of a CTA.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Encourages the reader to perform a specific task (voting).
Option B:
States an observation but does not prompt action.
Option C:
Provides information without calling for any action from the reader.
Option D:
Suggests none of the options are CTAs, which is incorrect given Option A's clear directive.
2.
The first sentence of each body paragraph needs to refer back to your .....
A) Transition.
B) Conclusion.
C) Hook.
D) Thesis.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The first sentence of each body paragraph needs to refer back to your thesis statement, which is the main argument or claim of the essay. This ensures that every paragraph directly supports and reinforces the overall purpose of the essay.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Transition - Incorrect. Transitions are used to link sentences and paragraphs smoothly but do not specifically refer back to the thesis.
Option B:
Conclusion - Incorrect. The conclusion summarizes the main points and restates the thesis, but it is not the first sentence of each body paragraph.
Option C:
Hook - Incorrect. A hook introduces the topic or grabs attention at the beginning of an essay, not in the body paragraphs.
Option D:
Thesis - Correct. The thesis statement is the main argument that every body paragraph should support and refer back to.
3.
What is the purpose of using evidence in a persuasive essay?
A) To support the thesis.
B) To introduce new topics.
C) To entertain the reader.
D) To conclude the essay.
Show Answer
Explanations:
To support the thesis is correct because evidence in a persuasive essay serves to back up and strengthen the main argument (thesis statement) of the essay, making it more convincing to the reader.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Evidence supports the thesis by providing factual or logical backing for the argument.
Option B:
Incorrect. Introducing new topics can distract from the main argument and weaken the essay's focus.
Option C:
Incorrect. While entertainment might engage a reader, it is not the primary purpose of evidence in persuasive essays.
Option D:
Incorrect. Evidence typically supports the thesis throughout the essay rather than concluding it.
4.
How many transition words or phrases are needed to connect evidence in one body paragraph?
Show Answer
Explanations:
One transition word or phrase is typically sufficient to connect evidence within a single body paragraph. This ensures smooth flow and clarity without overusing transitions, which can make the writing sound repetitive.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. Two transition words are more than necessary for connecting evidence in one paragraph.
Option B:
Incorrect. Three transitions might be used across multiple sentences but not within a single piece of evidence.
Option C:
Incorrect. Four transitions are excessive and can disrupt the flow of writing.
Option D:
Correct. One transition word or phrase is appropriate for linking ideas in one paragraph's evidence.
5.
In an explanatory essay, what is the primary purpose of the body paragraphs?
A) To narrate a personal story.
B) To present and explain evidence supporting the thesis.
C) To introduce new characters.
D) To provide a dramatic climax.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The primary purpose of the body paragraphs in an explanatory essay is to present and explain evidence supporting the thesis. This aligns with Option B, as each paragraph should delve into a specific aspect that substantiates the main argument or claim introduced by the thesis statement.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Narrating personal stories is more common in narrative essays and memoirs rather than explanatory essays.
Option B:
Correct. Body paragraphs should provide evidence, examples, or explanations that back up the thesis statement.
Option C:
Introducing new characters is typically a feature of fiction writing, not an explanatory essay.
Option D:
Providing a dramatic climax is more relevant to plot development in narrative essays or stories rather than explaining arguments in an essay.
6.
Which of the following is a key component of an informational essay outline?
A) Personal opinions.
B) Thesis statement.
C) Anecdotes.
D) Dialogue.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A thesis statement is a key component of an informational essay outline as it clearly states the main argument or purpose of the essay, guiding the structure and content.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Personal opinions are not typically included in outlines but may be expressed within the body of the essay.
Option B:
Thesis statement is correct as it defines the main point or argument of the essay, essential for structuring an informational piece.
Option C:
Anecdotes are narrative elements often used in the body to support points but not typically part of the outline structure.
Option D:
Dialogue is a literary device and usually found within the essay, not in the outline.
7.
What is the purpose of creating an outline for an essay?
A) To write the introduction and conclusion first.
B) To organize the material and keep the essay on track.
C) To list everything known about the topic.
D) To gather evidence and analysis for the essay.
Show Answer
Explanations:
To organize the material and keep the essay on track, an outline helps structure ideas logically and ensures all key points are addressed systematically. This method prevents tangents and maintains focus throughout writing.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Writing introduction and conclusion first is not the primary purpose of an outline; it's part of the overall essay planning.
Option B:
Correct. An outline organizes material, ensuring a coherent flow and comprehensive coverage of topics.
Option C:
Listing everything known about the topic can be part of research but isn't the main function of an outline; it's more about structuring ideas.
Option D:
Gathering evidence and analysis is important, but this happens during writing. An outline focuses on organizing thoughts rather than collecting data.
8.
What does an Introduction Paragraph include?
A) Summary, Analysis, Conclusion.
B) Introduction, Body, Conclusion.
C) Title, Author, Date.
D) Hook, Context, Thesis.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The introduction paragraph of an essay typically includes a hook to grab the reader's attention, context to provide background information, and a thesis statement that outlines the main argument or purpose of the essay.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Summary, Analysis, Conclusion. These are more relevant to body paragraphs rather than the introduction.
Option B:
Introduction, Body, Conclusion. This is a general structure for an entire essay, not specifically for the introduction paragraph.
Option C:
Title, Author, Date. These elements typically appear on the title page or at the beginning of the document but are not part of the introduction paragraph itself.
Option D:
Hook, Context, Thesis. This accurately describes the key components of an effective introduction paragraph.
9.
What should be the last sentence in the introduction in an argumentative essay?
A) Topic sentence.
B) Attention grabber.
C) Explanation.
D) Claim.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The last sentence in the introduction of an argumentative essay should be a claim, which is a clear statement that presents your position on the topic. This sets up the direction for the rest of the essay and provides a thesis-like statement to guide the discussion.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Topic sentence - Introduces the topic but not the argument.
Option B:
Attention grabber - Captures interest, but does not state your position.
Option C:
Explanation - Explains something about the topic, not a statement of your argument.
Option D:
Claim - Clearly states your position or argument.
10.
How is the intro supposed to be labeled?
A) In conclusion, All in all,.
B) A:C:E:S:.
C) Hook? Thesis:.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The introduction of an essay typically begins with a hook to grab the reader's attention and ends with a thesis statement that clearly outlines the main argument or purpose of the essay. Therefore, option C) Hook? Thesis:. accurately labels these components.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
These phrases are often used in conclusions, not introductions.
Option B:
This is an irrelevant code snippet and does not describe the introduction's structure.
Option C:
Correctly identifies the key elements of an essay introduction: a hook to engage the reader and a thesis statement to define the argument.
Option D:
Incorrect as there is a correct answer among the options provided.
11.
"Have you ever used a computer or phone to help with homework?" $\rightarrow$ This is an example of .....
A) Hook.
B) Thesis statement.
C) Example.
D) Background.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The given statement "Have you ever used a computer or phone to help with homework?" is an example of providing context or introducing a topic in the essay, which aligns with the definition of a hook. A hook's purpose is to engage the reader and make them interested in the essay.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Hook - Correct as it engages the reader by presenting a relatable scenario.
Option B:
Thesis statement - Incorrect, as a thesis statement presents the main argument or claim of the essay.
Option C:
Example - Incorrect, as an example is used to illustrate a point rather than introduce it.
Option D:
Background - Incorrect, as background information provides context but does not directly engage the reader like a hook does.
12.
This sentence opens the first body paragraph and supports your thesis.
A) Example.
B) Details.
C) Closing sentence.
D) Topic sentence with reason 1.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A topic sentence with reason 1 introduces the main idea of a paragraph and supports the thesis statement. It sets up the structure for the rest of the paragraph by providing evidence, examples, or details that will be discussed in subsequent sentences.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Example - Incorrect. An example is used to illustrate a point but does not introduce the main idea.
Option B:
Details - Incorrect. Details provide supporting information, but they do not state the main idea of the paragraph.
Option C:
Closing sentence - Incorrect. A closing sentence summarizes or concludes the paragraph rather than introducing its main idea.
Option D:
Topic sentence with reason 1 - Correct. It introduces the main topic and provides a supporting point for the thesis statement.
13.
Which transition shows an opposing viewpoint?
A) On the contrary.
B) Furthermore.
C) Similarly.
D) As a result.
Show Answer
Explanations:
On the contrary is used to introduce a statement that directly opposes what was previously stated, indicating an opposing viewpoint in an essay outline.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Introduces a contrasting idea.
Option B:
Adds to or reinforces the previous point.
Option C:
Agrees with and supports the previous statement.
Option D:
Indicates a result or consequence of what was previously stated.
14.
What does the "C" in the acronym "CHELPS" stand for?
A) Current Events.
B) Copy.
C) Context.
D) Character.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The "C" in the acronym CHELPS stands for Context. In essay writing, context refers to the background information and circumstances that are relevant to the topic being discussed. This helps provide a broader understanding of the subject matter and supports the argument or analysis presented.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. Current Events do not directly relate to the meaning of "C" in CHELPS.
Option B:
Incorrect. Copy is unrelated to the acronym CHELPS and its usage in essay writing.
Option C:
Correct. Context is the appropriate term for what "C" stands for in CHELPS, as it pertains to providing background information relevant to the topic being discussed in an essay.
Option D:
Incorrect. Character does not fit the context of the acronym CHELPS in the realm of essay writing.
15.
What are the names of the two types of essays?
A) Introduction and Opinion.
B) Short Story and Informative.
C) Opinion and Conclusion.
D) Informative and Opinion.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
D) Informative and Opinion.
These are the two main types of essays commonly discussed in English grammar and writing courses. An informative essay aims to educate the reader about a topic, while an opinion essay presents the writer's perspective or viewpoint on a subject.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Introduction and Opinion - Incorrect. While introductions are part of essays, they do not represent the two main types.
Option B:
Short Story and Informative - Incorrect. Short stories are a form of narrative writing, not an essay type.
Option C:
Opinion and Conclusion - Incorrect. Conclusions are part of essays but do not encompass the two main types.
Option D:
Informative and Opinion - Correct. These represent the primary categories of essays discussed in English grammar.
16.
Which of the following best describes the structure of an informational essay?
A) Introduction, Argument, Conclusion.
B) Introduction, Body, Conclusion.
C) Introduction, Summary, Conclusion.
D) Introduction, Narrative, Conclusion.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The structure of an informational essay is typically organized into three main parts: the introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction sets up the topic and provides a thesis statement that guides the entire essay. The body contains detailed information, evidence, and examples to support the thesis. Finally, the conclusion summarizes the main points and restates the thesis in a new way.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. An informational essay does not follow an argumentative structure.
Option B:
Correct. This accurately describes the standard format for an informational essay.
Option C:
Incorrect. The summary is not a part of the main structure; it's more like a restatement in the conclusion.
Option D:
Incorrect. A narrative structure is typically used in personal essays or stories, not informational ones.
17.
What should be your first sentence of a body paragraph?
A) Explain.
B) Example.
C) Topic Sentence.
D) Cite.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A topic sentence should introduce the main idea of a paragraph and provide direction for what will be discussed in that paragraph. It is crucial as it sets up the structure for the rest of the paragraph, ensuring coherence and clarity.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Explain - This option does not directly address the role of a sentence in structuring an essay.
Option B:
Example - An example is used to support or illustrate the topic sentence, but it is not the first sentence of a paragraph.
Option C:
Topic Sentence - This option correctly identifies the role of the first sentence in introducing the main idea of a paragraph.
Option D:
Cite - A citation is used to attribute information or data, not to introduce the topic of a paragraph.
18.
If you manage to get the reader to agree with you, this sentence tells them what they must do.
A) Counter argument.
B) Details.
C) Example.
D) Call to action.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "If you manage to get the reader to agree with you, this sentence tells them what they must do" implies that after convincing the reader of a point, there is an expectation for the reader to take some form of action. This aligns with the concept of a
call to action
, which is a directive encouraging the reader to perform a specific task or follow a particular course of action.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Counter argument - This option suggests contradicting the reader's viewpoint, which does not fit the context of agreeing with you and then instructing them on what to do.
Option B:
Details - Providing details would involve giving more information rather than directing the reader to take a specific action based on agreement.
Option C:
Example - An example illustrates or clarifies a point, but it does not instruct the reader on what they must do after agreeing with you.
Option D:
Call to action - This correctly identifies that the sentence is directing the reader to perform an action following agreement, which matches the definition of a call to action in essay writing.
19.
Where does the BIG PICTURE/MAIN LESSON go in the essay outline?
A) Introduction.
B) Conclusion.
C) Body Paragraph #2.
D) Body Paragraph #1.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The big picture/main lesson goes in the conclusion of an essay outline because it serves to summarize the main points and reinforce the thesis statement, providing a final perspective that ties together the entire argument presented in the body paragraphs.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Introduction - This is where you present your thesis and set up the topic. The big picture/main lesson belongs at the end.
Option B:
Conclusion - Correct. Here, you restate the main points and reinforce the thesis with the big picture/main lesson.
Option C:
Body Paragraph #2 - This is where you develop supporting arguments for your thesis. The big picture/main lesson should be reserved for the conclusion.
Option D:
Body Paragraph #1 - Similar to Option C, this paragraph develops an argument but does not conclude the essay or provide the final perspective on the main lesson.
20.
What should each paragraph in the body of an essay begin with?
A) An attention grabber.
B) A topic sentence.
C) A conclusion.
D) A thesis statement.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Each paragraph in the body of an essay should begin with a
topic sentence
. A topic sentence introduces the main idea of the paragraph and provides direction for what will be discussed. It is crucial as it sets up the structure for the rest of the paragraph.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
An attention grabber is typically used at the beginning of an essay to hook the reader, not to start each body paragraph.
Option B:
Correct. Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that outlines its main idea.
Option C:
A conclusion summarizes the paragraph's content and does not introduce new ideas for the next paragraph.
Option D:
A thesis statement is found at the end of the introduction, not in each body paragraph.
21.
Which is a topic sentence?
A) It tells where the writer got their text evidence from.
B) It transitions the reader to the next paragraph.
C) It tells the reader what they just read about.
D) It tells the reader the main idea of that body paragraph and it has a reason from the thesis in it.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option D is correct because a topic sentence introduces the main idea of a body paragraph and connects it to the thesis statement, providing a reason that supports the overall argument of the essay.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This describes where text evidence comes from, not what a topic sentence does.
Option B:
Transition sentences link paragraphs but do not introduce main ideas or connect to the thesis.
Option C:
This is incorrect as it suggests summarizing rather than introducing new information in a paragraph.
Option D:
Correctly identifies that topic sentences state the main idea and relate it to the essay's purpose.
22.
The final step in the informational writing process is to
A) Write your rough draft.
B) Revise and edit your essay.
C) Annotate your sources.
D) Analyze the results of your essay.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The final step in the informational writing process is to revise and edit your essay. This ensures that your work is polished, clear, and free of errors before submission.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Writing a rough draft is the initial step, not the final one.
Option B:
Correct. Revising and editing improve the quality of your essay after the first draft.
Option C:
Annotating sources is part of research, not the final writing process.
Option D:
Analyzing results pertains to data-driven tasks, not informational writing.
23.
What goes after the hook?
A) Transition sentence.
B) The bridge.
C) The thesis.
D) Concluding sentence.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The hook is typically followed by a transition sentence that smoothly leads into the main point of the essay, which is often stated in the thesis statement.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Transition sentence. Correct.
Option B:
The bridge. Incorrect; "bridge" is not a standard term used in essay structure.
Option C:
The thesis. Incorrect; the thesis comes after the transition sentence, not immediately after the hook.
Option D:
Concluding sentence. Incorrect; this would come at the end of an essay section or overall piece, not right after a hook.
24.
What should be included in the conclusion of an essay?
A) A summary of the main points.
B) New arguments.
C) Unrelated topics.
D) Detailed examples.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A summary of the main points is correct for an essay conclusion because it reinforces the key arguments and provides a clear ending to the discussion. This helps readers remember the core ideas discussed in the essay.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Summarizing main points strengthens the argument and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
Option B:
Incorrect. Introducing new arguments at this stage would confuse the flow of the essay and distract from the conclusion's purpose.
Option C:
Incorrect. Unrelated topics do not contribute to the clarity or coherence of the essay’s conclusion.
Option D:
Incorrect. Detailed examples are better suited for body paragraphs where they support specific points, not in a summary that should be concise and focused on key ideas.
25.
The citation format we use in English classes is
A) APA.
B) MLA.
C) Chicago.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
MLA (Modern Language Association) is the citation format commonly used in English classes, particularly for humanities subjects like literature and language studies. It provides guidelines for formatting papers and citing sources within academic writing.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
APA is typically used in social sciences.
Option B:
Correct. MLA is the standard citation format for English classes.
Option C:
Chicago is often used for historical and business writing, not primarily for English essays.
Option D:
Not applicable as MLA is indeed the correct choice for English classes.
26.
It's okay to put more than one quote inside a body paragraph as long as you separate them with elaboration. True or false?
A) True.
B) False.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
It is acceptable to include more than one quote within a body paragraph as long as each quote is followed by appropriate elaboration that connects the quoted material to the argument or point being made in the essay. This practice can enhance the depth of analysis and provide a richer discussion.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
True, because including multiple quotes with proper elaboration enhances the analytical depth of an essay.
Option B:
False, because it is not okay to include multiple quotes without elaboration. This option is incorrect as explained above.
Option C:
All the above, which is incorrect since only Option A is true and correct.
Option D:
None of the above, which is also incorrect because Option A is indeed correct.
27.
What is the last step in each body paragraph according to the outline?
A) Explain evidence.
B) Restate the prompt.
C) Personal Experience.
D) Cite evidence.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The last step in each body paragraph is to provide a personal experience, as stated by the claimed correct answer. This helps to reinforce the argument and make it more relatable.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Explain evidence - This is typically done earlier in the paragraph.
Option B:
Restate the prompt - This is usually done at the beginning or end of an essay, not within each body paragraph.
Option C:
Personal Experience - Correct. It adds a personal touch to support the argument.
Option D:
Cite evidence - Evidence is cited earlier in the paragraph, not at the last step.
28.
The last paragraph of the essay is called:
A) Body paragraph 3.
B) The end.
C) The conclusion.
D) The introduction.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The last paragraph of an essay is typically the conclusion, which summarizes the main points and restates the thesis in a new way, often providing a final perspective on the topic.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Body paragraph 3 - This refers to one of the body paragraphs within the essay, not the concluding section.
Option B:
The end - While this is close, it's too vague and doesn't specifically denote the purpose or function of that last paragraph in an essay structure.
Option C:
The conclusion - This accurately describes the role of the final paragraph, which wraps up the essay by summarizing key points and concluding the argument.
Option D:
The introduction - This refers to the opening section of the essay, not the closing one.
29.
What is purpose of an informational or expository essay?
A) To persuade the reader to change his/her mind.
B) To give a strong opinion on a topic.
C) To entertain the reader with an interesting.
D) To inform or explain something to the reader.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The purpose of an informational or expository essay is to inform or explain something to the reader. This type of essay aims to provide clear, factual information on a topic without bias or personal opinion.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. Persuasive essays aim to change the reader's mind.
Option B:
Incorrect. Opinion essays express the writer’s viewpoint and are not neutral.
Option C:
Incorrect. Narrative or descriptive essays focus on storytelling or vivid descriptions, not informing.
Option D:
Correct. This accurately describes the purpose of an informational or expository essay.
30.
Where does the CLOSING STATEMENT for REASON 1 go in the essay outline?
A) Body Paragraph #1.
B) Introduction.
C) Body Paragraph #2.
D) Conclusion.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The closing statement for Reason 1 should be placed in the body paragraph where that reason is discussed. This ensures that the conclusion directly supports and reinforces the point being made, providing a clear and logical flow of ideas within the essay.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The closing statement for Reason 1 belongs in Body Paragraph #1 where it will reinforce the argument.
Option B:
Incorrect. The introduction typically sets up the topic and thesis, not specific conclusions.
Option C:
Incorrect. Reason 2 would have its own closing statement in this paragraph.
Option D:
Incorrect. The conclusion summarizes all reasons and their supporting statements, not just one reason.
← Previous
Next →
Related Quizzes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of an essay outline?
An essay outline serves as a roadmap for your writing, helping you organize your thoughts and arguments in a structured way. It ensures that your essay flows logically from one point to another.
How does an introduction structure contribute to the essay?
An effective introduction grabs the reader's attention, provides background information, and clearly states the thesis or main argument of your essay. It sets the stage for the rest of the paper.
What is a topic sentence in an essay?
A topic sentence introduces the main idea or argument of a paragraph. It should be clear and concise, guiding the reader on what to expect from that section of your essay.
Why is it important to consider opposing viewpoints in an essay?
Considering opposing viewpoints strengthens your argument by showing a balanced perspective. It demonstrates that you have thoroughly researched the topic and can address potential counterarguments effectively.
What are some key elements of an essay conclusion?
An essay conclusion should summarize the main points, restate your thesis in a new way, and provide a final thought or call to action that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.