AWA - Analytical Writing Assessment Developing Strong Counterarguments Questions and Answers

Question 1

In the context of the AWA 'Analyze an Argument' task, which of the following best describes the primary function of a counterargument within your essay?

Accepted Answer

To strengthen your critique by acknowledging a potential objection and then refuting it.

Answer

To introduce doubt about your own thesis and show you are unbiased.

Answer

To demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the topic by exploring all possible viewpoints.

Answer

To fill the word count with alternative perspectives when you cannot find enough flaws in the original argument.

Question 2

A test-taker is analyzing an argument that claims a new brand of coffee will be successful in a certain town because a recent survey showed 80% of residents drink coffee daily. Which of the following is the STRONGEST counterargument the test-taker could develop in their essay?

Accepted Answer

The argument fails to consider that the town may already be saturated with many popular coffee shops.

Answer

The survey might be inaccurate because some people lie on surveys.

Answer

The new brand of coffee might be too expensive for the residents of that specific town.

Answer

The survey did not ask residents what their favorite brand of coffee is, only if they drink coffee.

Question 3

When developing a counterargument for an AWA essay, which of the following is an essential first step?

Accepted Answer

Pinpointing an unstated assumption the original argument relies on.

Answer

Identifying a minor factual error in the provided evidence.

Answer

Conceding that the author's main conclusion is partially correct.

Answer

Formulating an entirely new argument on the same topic.

Question 4

Imagine you are writing an AWA essay. After critiquing the author's argument, you want to include a counterargument. Which of the following demonstrates the most effective way to phrase and then refute the counterargument?

Accepted Answer

"One could argue that the provided statistic strongly supports the conclusion. However, this viewpoint is flawed because the statistic is outdated and may no longer be relevant."

Answer

"Some people might say the argument is strong, but they are wrong. The argument is weak for several reasons."

Answer

"The author's point about market trends is interesting. Another interesting point is that the competition is fierce."

Answer

"A possible counterargument is that the author has done some research. But is it enough research? Probably not, which weakens the argument."

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a primary goal when developing and presenting counterarguments in an AWA response?

Accepted Answer

To prove definitively that the original argument's conclusion is false.

Answer

To show the grader you have considered alternative explanations or viewpoints.

Answer

To identify and question the assumptions underlying the author's reasoning.

Answer

To strengthen your overall critique of the argument's logical soundness.

Question 6

A test-taker reads an argument advocating for a four-day workweek to boost employee morale, citing a single company's success with the policy. In developing a counterargument, the test-taker writes, "The argument assumes the success at one company will apply to all companies." How could this counterargument be made stronger?

Accepted Answer

By questioning whether the source of the information about the company's success is reliable.

Answer

By stating that the author is clearly biased in favor of a four-day workweek.

Answer

By suggesting specific, plausible alternative explanations for the single company's success, such as a recent salary increase or a new popular manager.

Answer

By arguing that employees would be less productive in four days than they are in five.