Unit 3 Test Study Guide

What are the three key components of the rhetorical triangle?

• a) Author, Audience, Purpose

• b) Context, Evidence, Thesis

• c) Syntax, Grammar, Writing

• d) Main Idea, Supporting Details, Structure

Answer explanation

The rhetorical triangle consists of three key components: Author (the speaker), Audience (the listener), and Purpose (the reason for communication). Option a) correctly identifies these elements, making it the right choice.

Why is a counterargument important in an argumentative essay?

• a) It provides a summary of the essay.

• b) It strengthens the main argument by addressing opposing views.

• c) It introduces new evidence.

• d) It defines the thesis statement.

Answer explanation

A counterargument is important because it strengthens the main argument by addressing opposing views. This demonstrates critical thinking and enhances the credibility of the essay, making the argument more persuasive.

What is a call to action in an argumentative text?

• a) A summary of the main points.

• b) A statement that urges the audience to take specific action.

• c) A definition of key terms.

• d) A list of supporting details.

Answer explanation

A call to action in an argumentative text is specifically designed to motivate the audience to take a particular action, making option b) the correct choice. It goes beyond summarizing or defining terms.

What is the role of context in influencing the author's purpose?

• a) It provides background information that shapes the author's intent.

• b) It lists the author's credentials.

• c) It summarizes the text.

• d) It defines key terms.

Answer explanation

Context plays a crucial role in influencing the author's purpose by providing background information that shapes their intent. This understanding helps readers grasp the motivations behind the text, making option a) the correct choice.

What is a compound sentence?

• a) A sentence with one independent clause.

• b) A sentence with two or more independent clauses.

• c) A sentence with a dependent clause.

• d) A sentence with no clauses.

Answer explanation

A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses, which are complete thoughts that can stand alone. Therefore, the correct answer is b) A sentence with two or more independent clauses.

Define 'explicitly' and 'implicitly.'

• a) Explicitly means clearly stated; implicitly means suggested or implied.

• b) Explicitly means hidden; implicitly means obvious.

• c) Explicitly means vague; implicitly means detailed.

• d) Explicitly means incorrect; implicitly means correct.

Answer explanation

The correct choice is a) because 'explicitly' refers to something that is clearly stated, while 'implicitly' refers to something that is suggested or implied without being directly expressed.

How does evidence support the thesis?

• a) By providing unrelated information.

• b) By offering proof and examples that back up the thesis.

• c) By summarizing the thesis.

• d) By contradicting the thesis.

Answer explanation

Evidence supports the thesis by providing proof and examples that reinforce its claims, making option b) the correct choice. The other options either provide unrelated information, summarize, or contradict the thesis.

Which rhetorical appeal is used to persuade by using credibility?

• Pathos

• Logos

• Ethos

• Syntax

Answer explanation

The rhetorical appeal that uses credibility to persuade is called Ethos. It focuses on the character and trustworthiness of the speaker or writer, making it essential for establishing authority in an argument.

What is a theme in literature?

• The main character

• The central topic or idea

• The setting of the story

• The author's biography

Answer explanation

A theme in literature refers to the central topic or idea that the work explores. It is not about the main character, setting, or the author's biography, but rather the underlying message or concept that drives the narrative.

What does the term 'Diction' refer to?

• The choice of words

• The plot of the story

• The setting of the story

• The author's background

Answer explanation

The term 'Diction' refers to the choice of words used by an author. It encompasses the style and clarity of language, which is crucial for conveying tone and meaning in writing.