Grade: Grade 5 Subject: English Language Arts Unit: Argument Writing Lesson: 6 of 6 SAT: Information+Ideas ACT: Reading

Mixed Practice Set

Instructions

Test Your Skills

This mixed practice set covers everything you have learned about argument writing:

  • Identifying claims and evidence
  • Recognizing counterarguments and responses
  • Spotting common mistakes
  • Understanding argument structure

Answer all 10 questions to see how well you understand argument writing. Good luck!

Your Score:

0 / 10

Practice Questions

Question 1: Identify the Claim

Schools should offer free breakfast to all students. Research shows that students who eat breakfast score 15% higher on morning tests. Many families struggle to provide breakfast before the school bus arrives. A free breakfast program would help all students start the day ready to learn.

What is the main claim of this passage?

Question 2: Find Strong Evidence

Which evidence BEST supports the claim "Schools should have more art classes"?

Question 3: Spot the Counterargument

Physical education should be required every day, not just twice a week. Daily exercise improves focus and reduces stress. Some parents worry that more PE means less time for academics. However, research shows students who exercise daily actually perform better in their other classes because their brains are more alert.

Which sentence is the counterargument?

Question 4: Fix the Weak Claim

Which revision makes this claim STRONGER? Original: "Phones are bad."

Question 5: Identify Irrelevant Evidence

Claim: "Students should learn a second language starting in kindergarten." Which evidence is IRRELEVANT?

Question 6: Response to Counterargument

Libraries should stay open later for students. Some argue that late hours cost too much money. While budget concerns are valid, libraries could partner with local businesses for sponsorship, and the educational benefits for students who need quiet study space outweigh the costs.

How does the author respond to the counterargument about costs?

Question 7: Absolute Words

Which sentence avoids problematic absolute words?

Question 8: Essay Structure

In a well-organized argument essay, where should the counterargument paragraph appear?

Question 9: Credible Sources

Which evidence includes the MOST credible source?

Question 10: Complete the Argument

Schools should allow students to have water bottles in class. Staying hydrated helps students concentrate. According to a study by the Journal of Nutrition, even mild dehydration can reduce cognitive performance by 10%. _______________

Which sentence would BEST complete this argument by addressing a counterargument?

Summary

💬

Claims

State your position clearly and specifically

📊

Evidence

Support with relevant facts and credible sources

⚖️

Counterarguments

Acknowledge and respond to the other side

🔧

Revision

Fix weak claims and avoid common mistakes

Congratulations!

You have completed the Argument Writing unit! You now know how to write strong claims, find good evidence, address counterarguments, and avoid common mistakes. Keep practicing these skills in your own writing!

Next Steps

  • Review any questions you missed and revisit those lessons
  • Practice writing your own argument essays using the skills you learned
  • Move on to the next ELA unit: Citing Sources