California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) English Practice Exam

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What is the primary purpose of using signal words in an expository essay?

To confuse the reader
To structure the essay more clearly
To increase word count
To elaborate on personal opinions

The correct answer is: To structure the essay more clearly

The primary purpose of using signal words in an expository essay is to structure the essay more clearly. Signal words serve as cues that guide the reader through the text, helping them to understand the logical flow of ideas. They indicate relationships between concepts, differentiate between examples and explanations, and highlight transitions. This organization aids comprehension, making it easier for the reader to follow the author's arguments and understand the supporting details being presented. Using these words effectively can enhance the clarity of the writing, ensuring that the reader can easily navigate through the various sections of the essay without becoming confused. In contrast to the other options, which do not align with the communicative intent of expository writing, focusing on clear structure is crucial for imparting information and ideas in a coherent manner.