Discussion Posts Quiz

1 What is the main goal of discussion post assignments?

To test your grammar skills To promote conversation and idea sharing To see how much you can write To practice typing skills

Correct Answer: B - To promote conversation and idea sharing

The chapter clearly states that "The goal of these assignments is to promote conversation and idea sharing." Discussion posts are meant to facilitate academic dialogue among students.

2 In discussion posts, you're typically asked to show which two key elements?

Critical thinking and evidence Creativity and humor Length and complexity Personal opinions and feelings

Correct Answer: A - Critical thinking and evidence

The chapter states that "You'll typically respond to a prompt and be asked to show critical thinking and provide evidence for your ideas." These are the two essential components of a strong discussion post.

3 According to the chapter, a strong position or "big idea" should be all of the following EXCEPT:

Interesting Debatable Universally accepted Specific

Correct Answer: C - Universally accepted

The chapter says a big idea should be "Interesting, Consequential, Debatable, Specific." If something is universally accepted, it wouldn't be debatable, which is one of the required characteristics.

4 What should your topic sentence do in a discussion post?

Ask a question to the reader State your position clearly and directly Provide background information Summarize what others have said

Correct Answer: B - State your position clearly and directly

The chapter states that the topic sentence is "your opportunity to state your position about the prompt. Be clear and direct." This sets up your entire argument.

5 In the paragraph format described, what comes after stating your big reason?

Provide evidence from research Go deeper with more depth and background information Start a new paragraph Conclude your argument

Correct Answer: B - Go deeper with more depth and background information

The format sequence is: 1) State the big reason, 2) Go deeper with depth and background, 3) Provide argument in your own words, 4) Provide evidence from research.

6 What is the difference between an "argument" and "evidence" in the discussion post format?

There is no difference Argument is your defense in your own words; evidence is defense from someone else Argument is emotional; evidence is logical Argument is shorter; evidence is longer

Correct Answer: B - Argument is your defense in your own words; evidence is defense from someone else

The chapter distinguishes between "provide an argument- a defense of your claim in your own words" and "provide evidence- a defense of your claim from someone else (that you learned via research)."

7 What should the final "Tie It In" sentence accomplish?

Introduce a new topic Ask readers to respond Explain how your claims build a strong case for your position Provide additional evidence

Correct Answer: C - Explain how your claims build a strong case for your position

The chapter states that the "Tie It In" section should "add a sentence that explains how your claims build a strong case for your position." This brings your argument together cohesively.

8 In the community radio example, what type of advertising does community radio use?

Traditional commercials Underwriting Social media ads Billboard advertising

Correct Answer: B - Underwriting

The example explains that "One major way that community radio supports the public is through underwriting. This is a form of advertising in which radio hosts read a short message about a local organization in exchange for a donation to the station."

9 According to the example, approximately how much does a 30-second commercial spot cost from DX Direct?

$100 $200 $400 $500

Correct Answer: C - $400

The example states that "A single 30-second commercial advertising spot purchased from DX Direct costs businesses around $400 (DX Media, 2018)." This is contrasted with the lower cost of underwriting on community radio.

10 The chapter suggests that discussion post skills can translate to other areas. Which is the most likely reason this skill is valuable?

It helps you write longer responses It teaches you to argue with people It develops your ability to present well-reasoned, evidence-based positions It helps you memorize information

Correct Answer: C - It develops your ability to present well-reasoned, evidence-based positions

The chapter notes that "Creating a strong response for these assignments is an important skill that can translate to many other settings in the workforce and in social life." This transferable skill is the ability to construct logical, evidence-supported arguments.