Multiple Choice Questions
Research Paper Writing and Citation
Topic: Research Paper Writing and Citation
Grade: 10
Question 1:
What is the purpose of including in-text citations in a research paper?
A. To give credit to the original author
B. To support the writer\’s claims
C. To show the sources consulted
D. All of the above
Answer: D
Explanation: In-text citations serve multiple purposes in a research paper. Firstly, they give credit to the original author or source of information, which is important for ethical reasons. Secondly, they support the writer\’s claims by providing evidence and references. Lastly, in-text citations show the sources that were consulted during the research process. For example, if a student is writing a paper on climate change and includes an in-text citation like (Smith, 2020), it not only acknowledges the original author but also strengthens the argument by incorporating a credible source.
Question 2:
Which of the following is an example of a reliable source for a research paper?
A. A personal blog
B. A peer-reviewed journal article
C. A social media post
D. An anonymous online forum
Answer: B
Explanation: A peer-reviewed journal article is an example of a reliable source for a research paper. Peer-reviewed articles undergo a rigorous evaluation process by experts in the field before being published, ensuring their credibility and accuracy. On the other hand, a personal blog, social media post, or anonymous online forum may contain biased or unverified information, making them unreliable sources. For instance, if a student is researching the effects of a specific medication, citing a peer-reviewed journal article would lend more credibility to their paper compared to using a personal blog post.
Question 3:
What is the purpose of a works cited page in a research paper?
A. To list all the sources consulted
B. To provide additional reading material
C. To summarize the main points of the paper
D. To showcase the writer\’s own ideas
Answer: A
Explanation: The purpose of a works cited page in a research paper is to list all the sources that were consulted during the research process. It provides a complete reference list of the works cited in the paper, allowing readers to locate and verify the sources. The works cited page includes information such as the author\’s name, title of the work, publication date, and more. For example, if a student has used multiple sources for their research paper on the history of World War II, the works cited page would provide a comprehensive list of all those sources.
Question 4:
Which of the following is an example of a direct quotation?
A. \”According to a study, sleep deprivation can lead to decreased cognitive function.\”
B. Sleep deprivation can have negative effects on cognitive function.
C. Studies have shown a correlation between sleep deprivation and decreased cognitive function.
D. Lack of sleep negatively impacts cognitive function.
Answer: A
Explanation: Option A is an example of a direct quotation because it presents the exact words or phrases from a source. The quotation is enclosed in quotation marks and attributed to the original author or study. In contrast, options B, C, and D are paraphrases or summaries of information, which do not use the exact wording from the source. For instance, if a student is writing a research paper on the effects of sleep deprivation, including a direct quotation like the one in option A adds credibility and demonstrates the use of evidence from a specific study.
Question 5:
What is the purpose of using a citation style guide in a research paper?
A. To ensure consistency in formatting and referencing
B. To limit the number of sources used
C. To make the paper more visually appealing
D. To showcase the writer\’s knowledge of different styles
Answer: A
Explanation: The purpose of using a citation style guide in a research paper is to ensure consistency in formatting and referencing throughout the paper. Different citation styles, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, have specific rules and guidelines for citing sources, formatting headings, margins, and more. By following a particular style guide, writers can maintain uniformity in their paper, making it easier for readers to navigate and understand the information presented. For example, if a student is using the MLA style guide, they would follow the prescribed rules for citing sources in-text and in the works cited page, such as using author-page format for in-text citations and including specific elements in the reference entry.
Question 6:
Which of the following is an example of a reputable online database for academic research?
A. Wikipedia
B. Google Scholar
C. Reddit
D. BuzzFeed
Answer: B
Explanation: Google Scholar is an example of a reputable online database for academic research. It provides access to scholarly literature, including articles, theses, books, and conference papers, across various disciplines. Google Scholar indexes content from reliable sources, such as academic publishers, universities, and research institutions. On the other hand, Wikipedia, Reddit, and BuzzFeed are not considered reputable sources for academic research as they are prone to containing user-generated content or entertainment-focused articles. For instance, if a student is conducting research on the impact of social media on mental health, searching for scholarly articles on Google Scholar would yield more credible and relevant results compared to relying on information from Wikipedia or Reddit.
Question 7:
What is the purpose of conducting a literature review in a research paper?
A. To summarize previous research on the topic
B. To identify gaps in existing literature
C. To provide a foundation for the study
D. All of the above
Answer: D
Explanation: Conducting a literature review in a research paper serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it allows the writer to summarize previous research on the topic, providing a comprehensive overview of existing knowledge. Secondly, a literature review helps identify gaps in the existing literature, highlighting areas where further research is needed. Lastly, it provides a foundation for the study by establishing the context and background information. For example, if a student is conducting research on the effects of climate change on biodiversity, the literature review would involve reviewing and analyzing previous studies, identifying gaps in the research, and establishing the need for their own study.
Question 8:
What is the purpose of including a counterargument in a research paper?
A. To acknowledge opposing viewpoints
B. To strengthen the writer\’s argument
C. To confuse the readers
D. To showcase the writer\’s ability to argue both sides
Answer: A
Explanation: The purpose of including a counterargument in a research paper is to acknowledge opposing viewpoints and strengthen the overall argument. By addressing potential counterarguments, the writer demonstrates a thorough understanding of the topic and the ability to critically analyze different perspectives. It also adds credibility to the writer\’s own argument by addressing potential objections and providing a well-rounded view of the topic. For instance, if a student is writing a research paper on the benefits of school uniforms, including a counterargument like \”Some argue that school uniforms limit individuality,\” allows the writer to address this opposing viewpoint and provide evidence to refute or support it.
Question 9:
Which of the following is an example of a primary source for a historical research paper?
A. A biography of a historical figure
B. A textbook on world history
C. A diary entry from a person who lived during the period being studied
D. A documentary on the History Channel
Answer: C
Explanation: A diary entry from a person who lived during the period being studied is an example of a primary source for a historical research paper. Primary sources are firsthand accounts or original documents from the time period being studied. They provide direct evidence and insights into historical events, people, and perspectives. On the other hand, a biography, textbook, or documentary are considered secondary sources as they interpret and analyze primary sources. For example, if a student is researching the American Civil War, using a diary entry written by a soldier who fought in the war would be a valuable primary source that offers a personal and authentic perspective.
Question 10:
What is the purpose of an abstract in a research paper?
A. To provide a summary of the paper\’s main points
B. To introduce the topic and research question
C. To showcase the writer\’s writing skills
D. To engage the readers with a captivating story
Answer: A
Explanation: The purpose of an abstract in a research paper is to provide a concise summary of the paper\’s main points. It briefly describes the research topic, objectives, methods, results, and conclusions. The abstract allows readers to quickly grasp the essence of the paper and decide whether it is relevant to their own research interests. It does not introduce the topic or research question in detail, showcase the writer\’s writing skills, or engage the readers with a story. For instance, if a student is writing a research paper on the effects of social media on adolescent mental health, the abstract would provide a brief overview of the study\’s purpose, methodology, key findings, and implications.
Question 11:
Which of the following is an example of a secondary source for a research paper?
A. A scientific research article reporting new findings
B. An interview with an expert in the field
C. A book analyzing historical events
D. A government report on climate change
Answer: C
Explanation: A book analyzing historical events is an example of a secondary source for a research paper. Secondary sources interpret and analyze primary sources or existing research. They provide an overview, analysis, or commentary on a topic or event. In contrast, option A is a primary source as it reports new findings. Option B is a primary source if it presents original insights or firsthand experiences from the expert, but it can also be a secondary source if it summarizes the expert\’s views. Option D is a primary or secondary source depending on whether it presents original research or summarizes existing information. For example, if a student is writing a research paper on the causes of the Great Depression, using a book that analyzes historical events would provide a secondary source that offers different interpretations and perspectives.
Question 12:
What is the purpose of conducting interviews for a research paper?
A. To gather firsthand information and perspectives
B. To support the writer\’s claims with expert opinions
C. To showcase the writer\’s interviewing skills
D. All of the above
Answer: D
Explanation: Conducting interviews for a research paper serves multiple purposes. Firstly, interviews allow the writer to gather firsthand information and perspectives from individuals who have direct experience or expertise in the topic being studied. This adds depth and authenticity to the research. Secondly, interviews can be used to support the writer\’s claims with expert opinions, providing additional credibility and evidence. Lastly, interviews also showcase the writer\’s interviewing skills and ability to extract relevant information. For instance, if a student is conducting research on the impact of technology on education, interviewing teachers, students, and education experts would provide valuable insights and diverse viewpoints.
Question 13:
Which of the following is an example of a credible website for research purposes?
A. www.randomblog.com
B. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
C. www.socialmediafunnyvideos.com
D. www.celebritygossipnews.com
Answer: B
Explanation: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov is an example of a credible website for research purposes. It is the official website of the National Center for Biotechnology Information and provides access to a vast collection of biomedical literature and scientific research articles. On the other hand, options A, C, and D are not considered credible websites for research purposes. They may contain biased or unreliable information, personal opinions, or entertainment-focused content. For example, if a student is conducting research on the effects of a specific drug, using the website www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov would provide reliable and authoritative sources to support their research.
Question 14:
What is the purpose of a research question in a research paper?
A. To guide the research process
B. To provide a clear thesis statement
C. To summarize the main points of the paper
D. To showcase the writer\’s curiosity
Answer: A
Explanation: The purpose of a research question in a research paper is to guide the research process and provide a clear focus for the study. A research question defines the problem or issue that the research aims to address. It helps the writer identify relevant sources, collect data, and analyze findings. A research question is not meant to provide a clear thesis statement, summarize the main points of the paper, or showcase the writer\’s curiosity. For instance, if a student is conducting research on the effects of social media on self-esteem, a research question like \”Does excessive use of social media impact self-esteem in teenagers?\” would provide a clear direction for the study.
Question 15:
What is the purpose of a conclusion in a research paper?
A. To summarize the main points and findings
B. To introduce new ideas or arguments
C. To engage the readers with a call to action
D. To showcase the writer\’s ability to write a compelling ending
Answer: A
Explanation: The purpose of a conclusion in a research paper is to summarize the main points and findings of the study. It provides a brief recap of the research question, methodology, results, and key arguments. The conclusion should not introduce new ideas or arguments, engage the readers with a call to action, or solely showcase the writer\’s ability to write a compelling ending. For example, if a student is writing a research paper on the benefits of exercise for mental health, the conclusion would summarize the findings, highlight the significance of the research, and suggest potential implications or areas for future study.