Central Idea & Development
A paragraph describes how social media increases anxiety by citing studies and examples. What is the central idea?
Social media contributes to increased anxiety
A story shows a character sacrificing for others. What theme is most likely?
Selflessness or sacrifice
A text shifts from problem to solution. What structure is used?
Problem and solution
Which type of evidence is strongest: opinion, anecdote, or data?
Data
What is the difference between objective and subjective perspective?
Objective = neutral; subjective = opinion-based
How does the inclusion of multiple examples strengthen the central idea?
It develops and supports the idea with evidence
How does repetition of an image contribute to theme?
It reinforces the central message
How does a flashback affect the reader’s understanding?
Provides background and context
Why is citing evidence important in written responses?
It supports claims and builds credibility
How does an author’s background influence perspective?
It shapes bias and viewpoint
A text introduces an idea, then refines it with counterexamples. How does this impact the central idea?
It makes the central idea more nuanced/complex
If two characters respond differently to the same conflict, what does that reveal?
Different perspectives on the theme
Why would an author alternate between two perspectives?
To compare viewpoints or build complexity
A student gives evidence but does not explain it. What is missing?
Analysis or reasoning
Analyze how a narrator’s perspective affects the reliability of a text.
It may limit or distort information
Why might an author delay stating the central idea until later in the text?
To build suspense or allow readers to infer it
Analyze how symbolism contributes to a theme in a text.
It represents deeper meaning that supports the theme
Analyze how the structure of a text contributes to its overall meaning.
Structure shapes how ideas are revealed and understood
Compare how two texts use evidence to support similar claims.
One may use data; the other anecdotes (must explain effectiveness)
Why is it important to evaluate multiple perspectives on the same issue?
To gain a deeper, more accurate understanding
Evaluate how effectively a text develops its central idea if it includes irrelevant details.
It weakens development by distracting from the main point
Evaluate which element (plot, character, or setting) most strongly develops theme in a text.
Answer must justify with reasoning
Evaluate how changing the structure (e.g., chronological to nonlinear) would impact meaning.
It would alter clarity, emphasis, or reader interpretation
Evaluate the strength of an argument that includes biased evidence.
It weakens credibility and reliability
Evaluate the credibility of a speaker whose claims lack supporting evidence.
Low credibility due to lack of support