Identify the Claim
Counter That Claim
Vocabulary
Connotations
Author's Purpose
100

Claim or not a claim? 

Allowing cell phones in school enhances learning by providing students access to educational resources.

What is claim?

100

Which piece of evidence counters the claim?

Claim: Online learning is as effective as traditional classroom learning.

A) Online courses offer flexible scheduling for students.

B) Some students report feeling isolated and unsupported in online settings.

C) Digital platforms provide access to a wide range of resources.

D) Online learning allows for personalized pacing.

B) Some students report feeling isolated and unsupported in online settings.

100

to speed up.

Accelerate

100

The glimmer of hope in her eyes was unmistakable. Does the word glimmer have a positive, negative, or neutral connotation?

Positive

100

Passage: The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. As the city lights began to twinkle, the serene beauty of the evening captured the hearts of those watching.

Question: What is the author's purpose in this passage?

  • A) To persuade
  • B) To entertain
  • C) To inform
  • D) To explain

B) To entertain

200

The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is the fastest American car ever made, with a top speed of 233 mph. It also holds the record for the fastest production car under $1 million.

What is not a claim? (This is an opinion.)

200

Which piece of evidence best counters the claim?

Claim: Electric cars are completely environmentally friendly.

A) Electric cars produce zero emissions while driving.

B) The production and disposal of batteries can harm the environment.

C) Charging stations are becoming increasingly available.

D) Electric vehicles reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

B) The production and disposal of batteries can harm the environment.

200

hard or challenging.

Grueling

200

The student's desk was empty. Does the word desk have a positive, negative, or neutral connotation?


Neutral

200

Passage: Recycling is an essential practice for reducing waste and conserving natural resources. By separating recyclables from trash, individuals can contribute significantly to environmental sustainability.

Question: What is the author's purpose in this passage?

  • A) To inform
  • B) To entertain
  • C) To persuade
  • D) To narrate

A) To inform

300

Which sentence is the claim? (1,2, or 3)

Universal access to healthcare is a fundamental human right. Ensuring that everyone can receive medical care regardless of their financial situation leads to healthier communities. Moreover, it reduces the long-term economic burden on society by preventing illnesses from escalating into more serious conditions.

Universal access to healthcare is a fundamental human right. (1)

300

Which piece of evidence best counters the claim?

Claim: Banning plastic straws significantly reduces ocean pollution.

A) Plastic straws are a small percentage of overall plastic waste.

B) Many companies are developing alternative materials for straws.

C) Reducing plastic usage raises awareness about pollution.

D) Bans on straws are easy to implement at local levels.

A) Plastic straws are a small percentage of overall plastic waste.

300

intended to be kept private or secret.

Confidential

300

The shrill noise from the alarm startled everyone. Does the word shrill have a positive, negative, or neutral connotation?

Negative

300

Passage: The new smartphone model offers a range of innovative features, including a high-resolution camera and extended battery life. These enhancements provide users with a superior experience compared to previous versions.

Question: What is the author's purpose in this passage?

  • A) To entertain
  • B) To persuade
  • C) To inform
  • D) To describe

B) To persuade

400

What sentence is the claim? (1,2, or 3?)

Extracurricular activities are a crucial component of a well-rounded education. Participation in these activities enhances student development by fostering important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and time management. Schools should therefore prioritize funding and support for diverse extracurricular programs to ensure all students have the opportunity to benefit.

Schools should therefore prioritize funding and support for diverse extracurricular programs to ensure all students have the opportunity to benefit. (3)

400

Which piece of evidence best counters the claim?

Claim: Eating organic food is always healthier.

A) Organic farming avoids the use of synthetic pesticides.

B) Nutritional differences between organic and conventional foods are often minimal.

C) Organic produce is free from genetically modified organisms.

D) Consumers often perceive organic foods as higher quality.

B) Nutritional differences between organic and conventional foods are often minimal.

400

implies danger and gives the impression that something harmful or evil is happening or will happen. The word has a negative connotation.

Sinister

400

The politician's manipulation of the facts was evident in his speech. Does the word manipulation have a positive, negative, or neutral connotation?

Negative

400

Passage: The steps to solve the math problem involve first identifying the variables, then applying the appropriate formula. By following these steps, students can find the correct solution efficiently.

Question: What is the author's purpose in this passage?

  • A) To entertain
  • B) To inform
  • C) To persuade
  • D) To narrate

B) To inform

500

Which sentence is the claim? (1,2, or 3?)

Implementing later school start times improves student health and academic performance. Studies show that adolescents benefit from more sleep, which aligns better with a later start to the school day. This adjustment can lead to better concentration, higher grades, and improved overall well-being for students.

Implementing later school start times improves student health and academic performance. (1)

500

Identify the piece of evidence that best counters the claim.

Claim:The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in classrooms guarantees improved student learning outcomes.

A) AI can provide personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs.

B) Some educators argue that AI lacks the ability to understand nuanced student emotions and contexts.

C) AI tools can analyze student performance data to offer targeted feedback.

D) The integration of AI can free up teachers to focus more on creative teaching methods.

B) Some educators argue that AI lacks the ability to understand nuanced student emotions and contexts.

500

to praise or celebrate something.

Touted

500

His assertiveness in the meeting ensured his ideas were heard. Does the word assertiveness have a positive, negative, or neutral connotation?

Positive

500

Passage: Adopting a pet from a shelter can bring immense joy and fulfillment to both the animal and the owner. It's a compassionate choice that saves lives and provides a loving home to animals in need.

Question: What is the author's purpose in this passage?

  • A) To entertain
  • B) To inform
  • C) To persuade
  • D) To narrate

C) To persuade