Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The main purpose of a thesis statement is to clearly state the main idea or argument of the essay. It serves as a roadmap for the reader, outlining the central point that the essay will address. Choice A, 'To summarize the essay,' is incorrect because while a thesis statement does provide a concise summary of the main point, its primary function is to present the main idea, not summarize the entire essay. Choice C, 'To ask a question,' is incorrect as a thesis statement is a declarative statement that asserts a position or argument rather than posing a question. Choice D, 'To provide evidence,' is incorrect because a thesis statement does not offer evidence but rather sets the direction and focus for the evidence that will be presented in the essay.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "You need to call your mother." An independent clause is a sentence that can stand alone and express a complete thought. In this sentence, the clause "You need to call your mother" functions independently and makes complete sense by itself. Choice B, "As soon as you get home," is a dependent clause as it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Choice C, "You get home," is also a dependent clause lacking a complete thought. Choice D, "You need to call," is not a complete sentence without specifying who needs to call.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Submitting a paper found on the internet as one's own work is a clear example of deliberate plagiarism. Choice A is not deliberate plagiarism as the student intends to paraphrase the source, although it may still be considered plagiarism if not properly cited. Choice B is a form of plagiarism known as improper citation but does not involve deliberate intent to pass off someone else's work as one's own. Choice D is also a form of plagiarism known as inadequate citation or failure to attribute, but it does not constitute deliberate plagiarism as the writer's intention is not to deceive but rather a failure in acknowledging sources properly.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The sentence about the ball of wool being a sustainable resource introduces a new idea that doesn't align with the other ideas in the paragraph, which focus on relaxation and health benefits. Choices A, B, and D all relate to the positive aspects and personal experience with knitting, which are in line with the paragraph's context. Choice A expands on the benefits of knitting, choice B highlights the relaxing nature of the activity, and choice D indicates a personal benefit obtained from knitting.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The topic sentence in a paragraph typically introduces the main idea or topic of the paragraph. In this case, choice B correctly serves as the topic sentence by clearly stating that gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease caused by bacteria that leads to inflammation of the gums. Choices A, C, and D provide additional information that supports or follows the main idea but do not present the overarching topic of the paragraph.