Supporting Details & Evidence - ACT Reading

Which option is best supported if the passage states: "The study suggests a correlation, not a cause"?

The study does not prove causation. 'Correlation, not cause' explicitly denies proving causation.
Identify the supporting detail: 'The author claims that...'

The author's claim. Author claims present the writer's position or argument.
Which word signals a reason: 'Because' or 'Moreover'?

'Because'. This word introduces explanations for why something occurs.
Find the evidence: 'The author states that...'

Author's statement. Author statements present the writer's direct assertions.
What type of evidence is used in 'statistical analysis'?

Quantitative data. Statistics rely on numerical measurements and calculations.
Choose the detail that supports the claim: 'Bilingualism improves cognition.'

Bilinguals perform better on cognitive tasks. Performance data supports cognitive enhancement claim.
Which option is best supported if the passage states: "The committee postponed the vote due to severe weather"?

The vote was delayed because of severe weather. Paraphrases the passage statement about postponement and weather.
Which detail best supports the claim that reading enhances empathy?

Readers show increased understanding of others' emotions. Demonstrates measurable emotional understanding improvement.
What is the role of supporting details in argumentation?

To substantiate claims and enhance credibility. They validate arguments and build reader trust.
What is statistical evidence?

Data presented in numbers. Uses numerical data to support claims.
Which option provides evidence for the environmental impact of plastic?

Oceans contain 8 million tons of plastic annually. Quantifies the scale of environmental damage.
What is the function of a counterexample in a text?

To refute or challenge an argument. Counterexamples show exceptions to disprove generalizations.
Identify the evidence: 'According to Dr. Smith...'

Dr. Smith's testimony. Expert attributions provide credible, authoritative support.
Which word signals an example: 'For instance' or 'Moreover'?

'For instance'. This phrase directly introduces specific examples.
Which sentence likely contains a supporting detail?

The sentence providing specific evidence or data. Supporting details contain concrete facts, not generalizations.
Which option best supports the author's claim about climate change?

Data showing rising global temperatures over decades. Long-term temperature trends provide measurable proof.
Choose the word that signals contrast: 'However' or 'Similarly'?

'However'. This word introduces opposing or contrasting ideas.
What type of evidence includes facts and data from credible sources?

Empirical evidence. Based on observable, measurable data from research.
Choose the correct term for 'evidence from a study':

Empirical evidence. This comes from controlled observation or experimentation.
Choose the detail that supports the claim: 'Technology enhances learning.'

Students using tablets scored higher on tests. Test performance data supports the technology claim.
Which sentence provides evidence for the importance of biodiversity?

Biodiverse ecosystems are more resilient to changes. Demonstrates ecological stability through diversity.
What is the purpose of citing expert opinions in arguments?

To add credibility to the argument. Expert knowledge increases argument trustworthiness.
Which piece of evidence best supports the author's viewpoint on urbanization?

Urban areas offer more job opportunities than rural areas. Comparative advantage supports urban living benefits.
Which evidence best supports the claim that music therapy reduces pain?

Patients reported 20% less pain after sessions. Measurable pain reduction validates therapy effectiveness.
Which sentence provides strong evidence for the benefits of meditation?

Meditation reduces stress levels by 30% as per recent studies. Quantified research results provide concrete evidence.
What is the role of statistics in supporting claims?

To provide quantifiable support. Numbers provide measurable, objective support.
What is the definition of 'supporting detail'?

Information that elaborates on the main idea. Information that develops and explains the central point.
Which signal word introduces an example: 'For example' or 'In contrast'?

'For example'. This phrase directly introduces specific instances.
What type of evidence is a 'direct quote'?

Verbatim statement from a source. Exact words from sources provide authoritative support.
What is the role of evidence in a persuasive essay?

To convince the audience of the argument's validity. Evidence builds trust and persuades readers effectively.
What is the purpose of 'historical evidence'?

To provide context or precedence. Shows how past events support current arguments.
What does a 'case study' provide in a text?

Detailed analysis of a specific instance. Examines one example in depth to prove broader points.
What is an example of empirical evidence?

Data from scientific experiments. Research-based data from controlled studies.
What is the role of examples in supporting an argument?

To illustrate and clarify the argument. Examples make abstract concepts concrete and understandable.
What is the role of examples in a text?

To illustrate and clarify the main idea. Examples make abstract concepts concrete and understandable.
Find the evidence: 'The chart shows a rise in...'

The chart's data. Charts provide visual, quantifiable evidence.
What is the purpose of using logical evidence in writing?

To build a rational argument. Logic creates structured, reasonable arguments.
What does 'empirical evidence' mean?

Evidence based on observation or experiment. Relies on direct observation rather than theory alone.
Identify the transition indicating conclusion: 'Therefore' or 'Also'?

'Therefore'. This word indicates a logical result or outcome.
What does 'anecdotal evidence' refer to?

Personal stories or examples. These provide individual experiences as proof.
What is an example of logical evidence?

Reasoning based on scientific principles. Uses established scientific knowledge as support.
What is the significance of using evidence in arguments?

To validate and strengthen claims. Evidence makes arguments more convincing and reliable.
What is the primary purpose of supporting details in a passage?

To provide evidence and elaborate on the main idea. Supporting details back up and expand on the central argument.
What is a 'statistic' as supporting evidence?

Numerical data used to support an argument. Statistics offer measurable, quantifiable proof.
What type of evidence includes first-hand accounts?

Testimonial evidence. Direct personal experiences provide authentic support.
Identify the type of evidence: 'According to a 2020 study...'

Statistical evidence. References to studies provide numerical or research-based proof.
Define the term 'evidence' in the context of reading comprehension.

Information used to support claims or arguments. Facts and data that back up statements or conclusions.
Identify the correct term for evidence from personal experience:

Anecdotal evidence. Personal experiences provide individual testimony.
What is the purpose of 'counterarguments' in a text?

To address opposing viewpoints. Shows alternative perspectives to strengthen arguments.
Which detail best supports the claim that art therapy aids in healing?

Participants showed faster recovery rates. Measurable healing outcomes validate therapy effectiveness.
Which evidence supports the claim that digital media impacts attention spans?

Studies show decreased attention in frequent users. Research findings demonstrate measurable attention decline.
Which option is NOT supported if the passage states: "Mara arrived early, reviewed her notes, and waited"?

Mara arrived late. Contradicts the passage which says Mara arrived early.
Find and identify the evidence: 'Research shows...'

Research findings. Research provides systematic investigation results.
What is a testimonial evidence?

Statement from a credible expert. Expert opinion lends authority to the argument.
What is 'logical reasoning' in terms of evidence?

Using reasoned arguments to support a point. Uses logical steps to reach valid conclusions.
Which option is best supported if the passage states: "She rarely ate dessert, except on holidays"?

She ate dessert mainly on holidays. 'Except on holidays' indicates when she did eat dessert.
Identify the unsupported choice if the passage states: "The painter used bold colors, but the subject remained ordinary."

The subject was unusual. Passage says the subject 'remained ordinary,' not unusual.
Which detail best supports the claim that exercise improves mental health?

Studies show reduced anxiety and depression in active individuals. Specific research findings provide strong empirical support.
Which transition indicates additional information: 'Furthermore' or 'Yet'?

'Furthermore'. This word adds more supporting information.
Find the evidence: 'Experts agree that...'

Expert consensus. Expert consensus represents professional agreement.
What is the importance of using varied evidence types in an argument?

To create a more compelling argument. Multiple evidence types strengthen overall persuasiveness.
What is an anecdotal evidence?

Personal stories or experiences. Based on individual experiences rather than data.
Identify the supporting detail type: 'A recent survey indicates...'

Survey evidence. Surveys collect data from specific populations.
Which option is best supported if the passage states: "Unlike its predecessor, the new model is quieter"?

The new model is quieter than the previous one. 'Unlike its predecessor' signals a comparison showing improvement.
Identify the supporting detail: 'Data from 2021 shows...'

2021 data. Specific dates provide concrete, verifiable information.
Identify the type of evidence: 'The report suggests...'

Report findings. Reports present formal findings and recommendations.
Identify the transition indicating cause: 'Because' or 'However'?

'Because'. This word establishes causal relationships between ideas.
What is the function of 'visual aids' in a text?

To enhance understanding through imagery. Visual elements clarify complex information effectively.
What is the purpose of supporting details in a passage?

To provide evidence and elaboration for the main idea. They strengthen and validate the central argument.
What does 'qualitative evidence' refer to?

Descriptive data or observations. Focuses on qualities and characteristics, not numbers.
Which sentence provides evidence for the economic benefits of tourism?

Tourism generated $5 billion in revenue last year. Specific dollar amount demonstrates economic impact.
Define 'logical evidence' in the context of supporting details.

Evidence based on reasoning and facts. Uses rational thinking and verifiable information.
What type of evidence is used when quoting an expert?

Testimonial evidence. Expert quotes provide authoritative support for claims.
Identify the best evidence for the claim: "The narrator feels uneasy" if the text says: "My stomach tightened as the door creaked open."

"My stomach tightened as the door creaked open.". 'Stomach tightened' provides physical evidence of uneasiness or anxiety.
What type of evidence is a personal story related to the topic?

Anecdotal evidence. Individual experiences illustrate broader points.
What is a counterargument?

An opposing viewpoint to the main argument. Presents an alternative perspective to challenge the main claim.
What is the role of 'analogies' in a text?

To make complex ideas more relatable. Comparisons help readers understand unfamiliar concepts.

Study these flashcards