Engish STAAR ( State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

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Prepare for the English STAAR Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

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What does the term 'thesis' refer to in an essay?

  1. The concluding statement of an essay

  2. The main idea to be proved or explained

  3. The background information provided in an introduction

  4. The evidence presented to support arguments

The correct answer is: The main idea to be proved or explained

The term 'thesis' refers to the main idea that a writer intends to prove or explain in an essay. It serves as a roadmap for the reader, outlining the central argument or proposition that the writer will support throughout the piece. A strong thesis statement is typically clear, concise, and specific, guiding the structure of the essay and providing the reader with an expectation of what is to come. The other options do not accurately define a thesis. The concluding statement of an essay serves to summarize the main points and reflect on the implications of the argument, rather than to present the main idea itself. Background information provided in an introduction sets the stage for the topic, but it does not represent the central argument that the essay is built around. Lastly, evidence presented to support arguments consists of examples, data, or quotes that back up the thesis, but it is distinct from the thesis itself, which articulates what the essay aims to demonstrate or argue.