Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) Practice Test

Which phrase indicates the need to provide support for statements made?

1. Vague assertions

2. Statement support

3. Overly generalized statements

4. Personal anecdotes

The correct answer is: Statement support

The phrase that indicates the need to provide support for statements made is "Statement support." This phrase explicitly suggests the importance of backing up claims with evidence or rationale. In any effective argument or discussion, simply stating a point is not sufficient; it must be substantiated with reliable information or reasoning that lends credibility to the assertion. This approach enhances persuasiveness and helps the audience understand the validity of the argument being presented. In contrast, "Vague assertions" and "Overly generalized statements" suggest a lack of clarity and specificity, implying that further support is needed to solidify those claims. "Personal anecdotes," while possibly enriching a discussion, often do not stand as strong evidence because they are subjective and specific to individual experience rather than objective support for broader statements. Therefore, the phrase "Statement support" clearly emphasizes the necessity for providing adequate backing for any claims made.