What is the purpose of a thesis statement in an academic essay?

A) To summarize the main points of the essay

B) To introduce the topic and the author's perspective

C) To provide background information and context

D) To state the main argument and the main supporting points

Answer: D) To state the main argument and the main supporting points

Rationale: A thesis statement is a concise and specific statement that expresses the main idea

and the main supporting points of an academic essay. It helps the reader to understand the

purpose, scope and direction of the essay.

Q2. What is the difference between a topic sentence and a supporting sentence in a paragraph?

A) A topic sentence introduces the main idea of the paragraph, while a supporting sentence

provides evidence, examples or explanations for the topic sentence.

B) A topic sentence states the main point of the paragraph, while a supporting sentence

develops or expands on the topic sentence.

C) A topic sentence summarizes the main idea of the paragraph, while a supporting sentence

illustrates or clarifies the topic sentence.

D) All of the above are correct.

Answer: D) All of the above are correct.

Rationale: A topic sentence and a supporting sentence have different functions in a paragraph.

A topic sentence introduces, states or summarizes the main idea of the paragraph, while a

supporting sentence provides evidence, examples, explanations, illustrations or clarifications

for the topic sentence.

Q3. What is the difference between coherence and cohesion in a paragraph?

A) Coherence refers to how well the sentences are connected logically, while cohesion refers to

how well the sentences are connected grammatically.

B) Coherence refers to how well the sentences relate to the main idea of the paragraph, while

cohesion refers to how well the sentences link to each other using transitions, pronouns or

repetition.

C) Coherence refers to how well the sentences flow smoothly and clearly, while cohesion

refers to how well the sentences stick together and form a unified whole.

D) All of the above are correct.

Answer: D) All of the above are correct.

Rationale: Coherence and cohesion are two aspects of paragraph organization that contribute to

its effectiveness. Coherence refers to how well the sentences are connected logically, relate to

the main idea of the paragraph, and flow smoothly and clearly. Cohesion refers to how well the

sentences are connected grammatically, link to each other using transitions, pronouns or

repetition, and form a unified whole.

Q4. What are some common types of transitions that can be used to improve cohesion in a

paragraph?

A) Transitions that show addition, contrast, comparison, cause and effect, time or sequence,

example or illustration, emphasis or summary.

B) Transitions that show similarity, difference, reason, result, purpose, condition, concession or

conclusion.

C) Transitions that show addition, contrast, cause and effect, time or sequence, example or

illustration, concession or conclusion.