ACT Reading Flashcards: Supporting Details And Evidence

What this deck covers

This deck focuses on Supporting Details And Evidence, giving you a quick way to review the definitions, rules, and examples that matter most for ACT Reading.

How to use these flashcards

Work through these flashcards in short sessions. Try to answer each prompt before flipping the card, then revisit any cards you miss until the explanation feels automatic.

Flashcard 1: Find the evidence: 'Experts agree that...'

Answer: Expert consensus. Expert consensus represents professional agreement.

Flashcard 2: Which option is best supported if the passage states: "The study suggests a correlation, not a cause"?

Answer: The study does not prove causation. 'Correlation, not cause' explicitly denies proving causation.

Flashcard 3: Identify the transition indicating conclusion: 'Therefore' or 'Also'?

Answer: 'Therefore'. This word indicates a logical result or outcome.

Flashcard 4: Identify the supporting detail: 'The author claims that...'

Answer: The author's claim. Author claims present the writer's position or argument.

Flashcard 5: What type of evidence is used when quoting an expert?

Answer: Testimonial evidence. Expert quotes provide authoritative support for claims.

Flashcard 6: Which word signals a reason: 'Because' or 'Moreover'?

Answer: 'Because'. This word introduces explanations for why something occurs.

Flashcard 7: Find the evidence: 'The author states that...'

Answer: Author's statement. Author statements present the writer's direct assertions.

Flashcard 8: Which sentence provides evidence for the importance of biodiversity?

Answer: Biodiverse ecosystems are more resilient to changes. Demonstrates ecological stability through diversity.

Flashcard 9: What type of evidence includes facts and data from credible sources?

Answer: Empirical evidence. Based on observable, measurable data from research.

Flashcard 10: What type of evidence is used in 'statistical analysis'?

Answer: Quantitative data. Statistics rely on numerical measurements and calculations.

Flashcard 11: Identify the transition indicating cause: 'Because' or 'However'?

Answer: 'Because'. This word establishes causal relationships between ideas.

Flashcard 12: What is 'logical reasoning' in terms of evidence?

Answer: Using reasoned arguments to support a point. Uses logical steps to reach valid conclusions.

Flashcard 13: Choose the detail that supports the claim: 'Bilingualism improves cognition.'

Answer: Bilinguals perform better on cognitive tasks. Performance data supports cognitive enhancement claim.

Flashcard 14: Which option is best supported if the passage states: "The committee postponed the vote due to severe weather"?

Answer: The vote was delayed because of severe weather. Paraphrases the passage statement about postponement and weather.

Flashcard 15: Which detail best supports the claim that reading enhances empathy?

Answer: Readers show increased understanding of others' emotions. Demonstrates measurable emotional understanding improvement.

Flashcard 16: Define the term 'evidence' in the context of reading comprehension.

Answer: Information used to support claims or arguments. Facts and data that back up statements or conclusions.

Flashcard 17: What is the role of evidence in a persuasive essay?

Answer: To convince the audience of the argument's validity. Evidence builds trust and persuades readers effectively.

Flashcard 18: What is the role of supporting details in argumentation?

Answer: To substantiate claims and enhance credibility. They validate arguments and build reader trust.

Flashcard 19: What does 'qualitative evidence' refer to?

Answer: Descriptive data or observations. Focuses on qualities and characteristics, not numbers.

Flashcard 20: What is the significance of using evidence in arguments?

Answer: To validate and strengthen claims. Evidence makes arguments more convincing and reliable.

Flashcard 21: What is an example of empirical evidence?

Answer: Data from scientific experiments. Research-based data from controlled studies.

Flashcard 22: Which sentence likely contains a supporting detail?

Answer: The sentence providing specific evidence or data. Supporting details contain concrete facts, not generalizations.

Flashcard 23: Identify the unsupported choice if the passage states: "The painter used bold colors, but the subject remained ordinary."

Answer: The subject was unusual. Passage says the subject 'remained ordinary,' not unusual.

Flashcard 24: What is statistical evidence?

Answer: Data presented in numbers. Uses numerical data to support claims.

Flashcard 25: Which option provides evidence for the environmental impact of plastic?

Answer: Oceans contain 8 million tons of plastic annually. Quantifies the scale of environmental damage.

Flashcard 26: What is the importance of using varied evidence types in an argument?

Answer: To create a more compelling argument. Multiple evidence types strengthen overall persuasiveness.

Flashcard 27: What type of evidence is used in 'statistical analysis'?

Answer: Quantitative data. Statistics rely on numerical measurements and calculations.

Flashcard 28: What is the function of a counterexample in a text?

Answer: To refute or challenge an argument. Counterexamples show exceptions to disprove generalizations.

Flashcard 29: Identify the evidence: 'According to Dr. Smith...'

Answer: Dr. Smith's testimony. Expert attributions provide credible, authoritative support.

Flashcard 30: Which option provides evidence for the environmental impact of plastic?

Answer: Oceans contain 8 million tons of plastic annually. Quantifies the scale of environmental damage.

Flashcard 31: Which word signals an example: 'For instance' or 'Moreover'?

Answer: 'For instance'. This phrase directly introduces specific examples.

Flashcard 32: Which sentence likely contains a supporting detail?

Answer: The sentence providing specific evidence or data. Supporting details contain concrete facts, not generalizations.

Flashcard 33: Which option best supports the author's claim about climate change?

Answer: Data showing rising global temperatures over decades. Long-term temperature trends provide measurable proof.

Flashcard 34: What is the purpose of 'counterarguments' in a text?

Answer: To address opposing viewpoints. Shows alternative perspectives to strengthen arguments.

Flashcard 35: What is the function of a counterexample in a text?

Answer: To refute or challenge an argument. Counterexamples show exceptions to disprove generalizations.

Flashcard 36: Which detail best supports the claim that reading enhances empathy?

Answer: Readers show increased understanding of others' emotions. Demonstrates measurable emotional understanding improvement.

Flashcard 37: What is the role of examples in supporting an argument?

Answer: To illustrate and clarify the argument. Examples make abstract concepts concrete and understandable.

Flashcard 38: What is the purpose of citing expert opinions in arguments?

Answer: To add credibility to the argument. Expert knowledge increases argument trustworthiness.

Flashcard 39: Which option is best supported if the passage states: "She rarely ate dessert, except on holidays"?

Answer: She ate dessert mainly on holidays. 'Except on holidays' indicates when she did eat dessert.

Flashcard 40: What is the definition of 'supporting detail'?

Answer: Information that elaborates on the main idea. Information that develops and explains the central point.

Flashcard 41: Which option best supports the author's claim about climate change?

Answer: Data showing rising global temperatures over decades. Long-term temperature trends provide measurable proof.

Flashcard 42: What is the purpose of using logical evidence in writing?

Answer: To build a rational argument. Logic creates structured, reasonable arguments.

Flashcard 43: Identify the type of evidence: 'According to a 2020 study...'

Answer: Statistical evidence. References to studies provide numerical or research-based proof.

Flashcard 44: Choose the word that signals contrast: 'However' or 'Similarly'?

Answer: 'However'. This word introduces opposing or contrasting ideas.

Flashcard 45: What type of evidence includes facts and data from credible sources?

Answer: Empirical evidence. Based on observable, measurable data from research.

Flashcard 46: Identify the supporting detail: 'The author claims that...'

Answer: The author's claim. Author claims present the writer's position or argument.

Flashcard 47: Choose the correct term for 'evidence from a study':

Answer: Empirical evidence. This comes from controlled observation or experimentation.

Flashcard 48: What is the role of supporting details in argumentation?

Answer: To substantiate claims and enhance credibility. They validate arguments and build reader trust.

Flashcard 49: Choose the detail that supports the claim: 'Technology enhances learning.'

Answer: Students using tablets scored higher on tests. Test performance data supports the technology claim.

Flashcard 50: Which sentence provides evidence for the importance of biodiversity?

Answer: Biodiverse ecosystems are more resilient to changes. Demonstrates ecological stability through diversity.

Flashcard 51: What type of evidence is a 'direct quote'?

Answer: Verbatim statement from a source. Exact words from sources provide authoritative support.

Flashcard 52: What is the role of statistics in supporting claims?

Answer: To provide quantifiable support. Numbers provide measurable, objective support.

Flashcard 53: What is the primary purpose of supporting details in a passage?

Answer: To provide evidence and elaborate on the main idea. Supporting details back up and expand on the central argument.

Flashcard 54: Choose the detail that supports the claim: 'Bilingualism improves cognition.'

Answer: Bilinguals perform better on cognitive tasks. Performance data supports cognitive enhancement claim.

Flashcard 55: What is the purpose of citing expert opinions in arguments?

Answer: To add credibility to the argument. Expert knowledge increases argument trustworthiness.

Flashcard 56: Which piece of evidence best supports the author's viewpoint on urbanization?

Answer: Urban areas offer more job opportunities than rural areas. Comparative advantage supports urban living benefits.

Flashcard 57: Which evidence best supports the claim that music therapy reduces pain?

Answer: Patients reported 20% less pain after sessions. Measurable pain reduction validates therapy effectiveness.

Flashcard 58: Which word signals a reason: 'Because' or 'Moreover'?

Answer: 'Because'. This word introduces explanations for why something occurs.

Flashcard 59: What type of evidence is a personal story related to the topic?

Answer: Anecdotal evidence. Individual experiences illustrate broader points.

Flashcard 60: Which option is NOT supported if the passage states: "Mara arrived early, reviewed her notes, and waited"?

Answer: Mara arrived late. Contradicts the passage which says Mara arrived early.

Flashcard 61: Choose the detail that supports the claim: 'Technology enhances learning.'

Answer: Students using tablets scored higher on tests. Test performance data supports the technology claim.

Flashcard 62: Which word signals an example: 'For instance' or 'Moreover'?

Answer: 'For instance'. This phrase directly introduces specific examples.

Flashcard 63: What type of evidence includes first-hand accounts?

Answer: Testimonial evidence. Direct personal experiences provide authentic support.

Flashcard 64: Which sentence provides strong evidence for the benefits of meditation?

Answer: Meditation reduces stress levels by 30% as per recent studies. Quantified research results provide concrete evidence.

Flashcard 65: What is a testimonial evidence?

Answer: Statement from a credible expert. Expert opinion lends authority to the argument.

Flashcard 66: Identify the supporting detail type: 'A recent survey indicates...'

Answer: Survey evidence. Surveys collect data from specific populations.

Flashcard 67: What is the role of statistics in supporting claims?

Answer: To provide quantifiable support. Numbers provide measurable, objective support.

Flashcard 68: Which transition indicates additional information: 'Furthermore' or 'Yet'?

Answer: 'Furthermore'. This word adds more supporting information.

Flashcard 69: What is the definition of 'supporting detail'?

Answer: Information that elaborates on the main idea. Information that develops and explains the central point.

Flashcard 70: Which signal word introduces an example: 'For example' or 'In contrast'?

Answer: 'For example'. This phrase directly introduces specific instances.

Flashcard 71: What type of evidence is a 'direct quote'?

Answer: Verbatim statement from a source. Exact words from sources provide authoritative support.

Flashcard 72: Which sentence provides strong evidence for the benefits of meditation?

Answer: Meditation reduces stress levels by 30% as per recent studies. Quantified research results provide concrete evidence.

Flashcard 73: What is the role of evidence in a persuasive essay?

Answer: To convince the audience of the argument's validity. Evidence builds trust and persuades readers effectively.

Flashcard 74: Identify the type of evidence: 'The report suggests...'

Answer: Report findings. Reports present formal findings and recommendations.

Flashcard 75: Which piece of evidence best supports the author's viewpoint on urbanization?

Answer: Urban areas offer more job opportunities than rural areas. Comparative advantage supports urban living benefits.

Flashcard 76: What is the purpose of 'historical evidence'?

Answer: To provide context or precedence. Shows how past events support current arguments.

Flashcard 77: Find the evidence: 'The author states that...'

Answer: Author's statement. Author statements present the writer's direct assertions.

Flashcard 78: What does a 'case study' provide in a text?

Answer: Detailed analysis of a specific instance. Examines one example in depth to prove broader points.

Flashcard 79: What is an example of empirical evidence?

Answer: Data from scientific experiments. Research-based data from controlled studies.

Flashcard 80: Define 'logical evidence' in the context of supporting details.

Answer: Evidence based on reasoning and facts. Uses rational thinking and verifiable information.

Flashcard 81: What is the role of examples in supporting an argument?

Answer: To illustrate and clarify the argument. Examples make abstract concepts concrete and understandable.

Flashcard 82: Which evidence best supports the claim that music therapy reduces pain?

Answer: Patients reported 20% less pain after sessions. Measurable pain reduction validates therapy effectiveness.

Flashcard 83: What is the role of examples in a text?

Answer: To illustrate and clarify the main idea. Examples make abstract concepts concrete and understandable.

Flashcard 84: Find the evidence: 'The chart shows a rise in...'

Answer: The chart's data. Charts provide visual, quantifiable evidence.

Flashcard 85: What is the purpose of using logical evidence in writing?

Answer: To build a rational argument. Logic creates structured, reasonable arguments.

Flashcard 86: What does 'empirical evidence' mean?

Answer: Evidence based on observation or experiment. Relies on direct observation rather than theory alone.

Flashcard 87: Identify the transition indicating conclusion: 'Therefore' or 'Also'?

Answer: 'Therefore'. This word indicates a logical result or outcome.

Flashcard 88: Which sentence provides evidence for the economic benefits of tourism?

Answer: Tourism generated $5 billion in revenue last year. Specific dollar amount demonstrates economic impact.

Flashcard 89: What does 'anecdotal evidence' refer to?

Answer: Personal stories or examples. These provide individual experiences as proof.

Flashcard 90: What is statistical evidence?

Answer: Data presented in numbers. Uses numerical data to support claims.

Flashcard 91: What is an example of logical evidence?

Answer: Reasoning based on scientific principles. Uses established scientific knowledge as support.

Flashcard 92: What is the significance of using evidence in arguments?

Answer: To validate and strengthen claims. Evidence makes arguments more convincing and reliable.

Flashcard 93: What is the primary purpose of supporting details in a passage?

Answer: To provide evidence and elaborate on the main idea. Supporting details back up and expand on the central argument.

Flashcard 94: What is a 'statistic' as supporting evidence?

Answer: Numerical data used to support an argument. Statistics offer measurable, quantifiable proof.

Flashcard 95: What type of evidence includes first-hand accounts?

Answer: Testimonial evidence. Direct personal experiences provide authentic support.

Flashcard 96: Find the evidence: 'The chart shows a rise in...'

Answer: The chart's data. Charts provide visual, quantifiable evidence.

Flashcard 97: Identify the type of evidence: 'According to a 2020 study...'

Answer: Statistical evidence. References to studies provide numerical or research-based proof.

Flashcard 98: Define the term 'evidence' in the context of reading comprehension.

Answer: Information used to support claims or arguments. Facts and data that back up statements or conclusions.

Flashcard 99: Identify the correct term for evidence from personal experience:

Answer: Anecdotal evidence. Personal experiences provide individual testimony.

Flashcard 100: What is the purpose of 'counterarguments' in a text?

Answer: To address opposing viewpoints. Shows alternative perspectives to strengthen arguments.