Grade 7 Argumentative Essays Practice Test

Correct answer: A

The correct answer is Schools should expand recycling because it reduces waste and teaches students responsible habits..

1. Identify the writing task: Determine whether the question asks about a claim, thesis, evidence, reasoning, organization, style, or revision.
2. Apply the argumentative writing principle: The sentence takes a debatable position and gives two reasons that can be supported with evidence.
3. Check relevance and clarity: Choose the option that supports a focused, logical, evidence-based argument for the intended audience.

Correct answer: B

The correct answer is The school should keep the library open after classes because students need a quiet place to study and use reliable resources..

1. Identify the writing task: Determine whether the question asks about a claim, thesis, evidence, reasoning, organization, style, or revision.
2. Apply the argumentative writing principle: The thesis states a specific position and previews two logical reasons for it.
3. Check relevance and clarity: Choose the option that supports a focused, logical, evidence-based argument for the intended audience.

Correct answer: C

The correct answer is Community gardens.

1. Identify the writing task: Determine whether the question asks about a claim, thesis, evidence, reasoning, organization, style, or revision.
2. Apply the argumentative writing principle: Community gardens names a topic but does not state a position that readers could support or challenge.
3. Check relevance and clarity: Choose the option that supports a focused, logical, evidence-based argument for the intended audience.

Correct answer: D

The correct answer is The city should add protected bike lanes on three busy roads near schools..

1. Identify the writing task: Determine whether the question asks about a claim, thesis, evidence, reasoning, organization, style, or revision.
2. Apply the argumentative writing principle: The claim identifies a concrete action and location, making it focused enough to investigate and debate.
3. Check relevance and clarity: Choose the option that supports a focused, logical, evidence-based argument for the intended audience.

Correct answer: A

The correct answer is To introduce the issue, provide useful context, and present the thesis..

1. Identify the writing task: Determine whether the question asks about a claim, thesis, evidence, reasoning, organization, style, or revision.
2. Apply the argumentative writing principle: An introduction prepares readers to understand the issue and establishes the essay position.
3. Check relevance and clarity: Choose the option that supports a focused, logical, evidence-based argument for the intended audience.

Correct answer: B

The correct answer is Reinforce the position by summarizing the reasoning and offering a meaningful final thought..

1. Identify the writing task: Determine whether the question asks about a claim, thesis, evidence, reasoning, organization, style, or revision.
2. Apply the argumentative writing principle: A conclusion brings the argument together and leaves readers with the central reasoning or recommendation.
3. Check relevance and clarity: Choose the option that supports a focused, logical, evidence-based argument for the intended audience.

Correct answer: C

The correct answer is A survey showing that most students avoid the courtyard during very hot lunch periods.

1. Identify the writing task: Determine whether the question asks about a claim, thesis, evidence, reasoning, organization, style, or revision.
2. Apply the argumentative writing principle: The survey directly addresses student use of outdoor seating during hot conditions.
3. Check relevance and clarity: Choose the option that supports a focused, logical, evidence-based argument for the intended audience.

Correct answer: D

The correct answer is Technology affects everything in modern life..

1. Identify the writing task: Determine whether the question asks about a claim, thesis, evidence, reasoning, organization, style, or revision.
2. Apply the argumentative writing principle: The claim covers an enormous topic without identifying a specific position, audience, or action.
3. Check relevance and clarity: Choose the option that supports a focused, logical, evidence-based argument for the intended audience.

Correct answer: A

The correct answer is The town should turn the empty lot into a public community garden..

1. Identify the writing task: Determine whether the question asks about a claim, thesis, evidence, reasoning, organization, style, or revision.
2. Apply the argumentative writing principle: The statement recommends a policy that reasonable readers could support or question.
3. Check relevance and clarity: Choose the option that supports a focused, logical, evidence-based argument for the intended audience.

Correct answer: B

The correct answer is The school should replace disposable cafeteria trays with washable trays to reduce daily waste..

1. Identify the writing task: Determine whether the question asks about a claim, thesis, evidence, reasoning, organization, style, or revision.
2. Apply the argumentative writing principle: The thesis names one practical change and one clear purpose, so the writer can develop it within a short essay.
3. Check relevance and clarity: Choose the option that supports a focused, logical, evidence-based argument for the intended audience.