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

What transition word is ideal for the third supporting paragraph of an argumentative essay?

1. In contrast

2. Most importantly

3. Further

4. For example

The correct answer is: Most importantly

The choice of "Most importantly" as the transition word for the third supporting paragraph of an argumentative essay is ideal because it emphasizes the significance of the point being made. In an argumentative essay, each paragraph typically builds upon the previous one, and the third paragraph often introduces a critical point that reinforces the overall argument. By using a transition that indicates importance, the writer signals to the reader that this point should be given special attention because it supports the thesis in a significant way. Using "Most importantly" helps to establish a hierarchical structure within the argument, guiding the reader to understand that this supporting detail carries substantial weight within the context of the entire essay. It can effectively highlight the culmination of the argument, suggesting that the ideas presented in this paragraph are crucial to understanding the overall claim being made.