Multiple Choice Questions
Advanced Argumentative and Persuasive Writing (Continued)
Topic: Logical Fallacies
Grade: 12
Question 1:
Which logical fallacy is being committed in the following argument?
\”If you don\’t support the new tax proposal, then you must hate the poor.\”
A. Ad Hominem
B. False Dilemma
C. Red Herring
D. Straw Man
Answer: B. False Dilemma
Explanation: The argument presents a false dilemma by suggesting that there are only two options: supporting the new tax proposal or hating the poor. This oversimplification ignores the possibility of other reasons for not supporting the proposal. For example, someone may oppose the proposal because they believe it will unfairly burden the middle class. This fallacy is often used to manipulate emotions and limit the range of options in a debate.
Question 2:
Which logical fallacy is being committed in the following argument?
\”Everyone says that this new product is amazing, so it must be true.\”
A. Appeal to Authority
B. Appeal to Ignorance
C. Circular Reasoning
D. Hasty Generalization
Answer: A. Appeal to Authority
Explanation: The argument relies on the opinions of others to support its claim, without providing any evidence or logical reasoning. Just because \”everyone\” says something is true does not make it automatically true. This fallacy is commonly used in advertising, where celebrity endorsements are used to persuade consumers. For example, if a famous actor claims that a certain brand of shampoo makes their hair look amazing, it does not necessarily mean that everyone will have the same results.
Question 3:
Which logical fallacy is being committed in the following argument?
\”Either we ban all guns or we allow anyone to own any type of firearm they want.\”
A. False Dilemma
B. Slippery Slope
C. Straw Man
D. Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc
Answer: A. False Dilemma
Explanation: The argument presents a false dilemma by suggesting that there are only two extreme options: banning all guns or allowing unrestricted access to firearms. This oversimplification ignores the possibility of finding a middle ground, such as implementing stricter regulations or background checks. This fallacy is often used to polarize a debate and avoid considering alternative solutions.
Question 4:
Which logical fallacy is being committed in the following argument?
\”Since you can\’t prove that unicorns don\’t exist, they must be real.\”
A. Appeal to Ignorance
B. False Analogy
C. Non Sequitur
D. Red Herring
Answer: A. Appeal to Ignorance
Explanation: The argument relies on the absence of evidence to support its claim. Just because something cannot be proven false does not automatically make it true. This fallacy is often used to shift the burden of proof onto the skeptic, demanding that they disprove something that has not been proven in the first place. For example, if someone claims that aliens have visited Earth and asks for evidence to disprove it, it does not mean that their claim is valid.
Question 5:
Which logical fallacy is being committed in the following argument?
\”Since we\’ve always done it this way, there\’s no need for change.\”
A. Ad Hominem
B. Appeal to Tradition
C. False Dilemma
D. Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc
Answer: B. Appeal to Tradition
Explanation: The argument suggests that something should be continued simply because it has been done in the past, without providing any logical reasoning or evidence to support the claim. This fallacy ignores the possibility of progress and improvement. For example, if a company refuses to adopt new technologies or practices because they have always done things a certain way, they may miss out on more efficient methods or opportunities for growth.
Topic: Rhetorical Devices
Grade: 12
Question 1:
Which rhetorical device is being used in the following sentence?
\”The pen is mightier than the sword.\”
A. Alliteration
B. Hyperbole
C. Metaphor
D. Simile
Answer: C. Metaphor
Explanation: This sentence uses a metaphor to convey the idea that writing and communication have more power and influence than physical force. The comparison between a pen and a sword emphasizes the idea that words can shape opinions, change minds, and have a lasting impact. This rhetorical device is commonly used in persuasive writing to create strong, memorable imagery.
Question 2:
Which rhetorical device is being used in the following sentence?
\”His words cut like a knife.\”
A. Alliteration
B. Hyperbole
C. Metaphor
D. Simile
Answer: D. Simile
Explanation: This sentence uses a simile to compare the effect of someone\’s words to the sharpness and pain caused by a knife. The use of \”like\” indicates a direct comparison, highlighting the intensity and emotional impact of the words being described. This rhetorical device is often used to evoke strong emotions and create vivid imagery in writing.
Question 3:
Which rhetorical device is being used in the following sentence?
\”Love is a battlefield.\”
A. Alliteration
B. Hyperbole
C. Metaphor
D. Simile
Answer: C. Metaphor
Explanation: This sentence uses a metaphor to compare love to a battlefield, suggesting that it can be a challenging and difficult experience. The comparison emphasizes the conflicts, struggles, and risks associated with love. This rhetorical device is commonly used to convey complex emotions and abstract concepts in a more relatable and vivid way.
Question 4:
Which rhetorical device is being used in the following sentence?
\”Her smile lit up the room.\”
A. Alliteration
B. Hyperbole
C. Metaphor
D. Simile
Answer: C. Metaphor
Explanation: This sentence uses a metaphor to describe the effect of someone\’s smile on the environment. By comparing the smile to a source of light, the sentence conveys the idea that the person\’s smile brought joy, positivity, and brightness to the room. This rhetorical device is often used to create visual and emotional impact in writing.
Question 5:
Which rhetorical device is being used in the following sentence?
\”Time flies.\”
A. Alliteration
B. Hyperbole
C. Metaphor
D. Simile
Answer: B. Hyperbole
Explanation: This sentence uses hyperbole to exaggerate the speed and fleeting nature of time. By saying that time \”flies,\” the sentence emphasizes the idea that time passes quickly and can easily slip away. This rhetorical device is commonly used to create emphasis, capture attention, and convey a sense of urgency.