AWA - Analytical Writing Assessment Evaluating Evidence and Assumptions Questions and Answers

Question 1

An argument states: 'The recent surge in our city's recycling rates is a direct result of the new awareness campaign launched last quarter.' Which of the following, if true, would most seriously weaken this argument?

Accepted Answer

Neighboring cities without an awareness campaign have reported an even greater surge in recycling rates during the same period.

Answer

The awareness campaign was primarily featured on social media platforms.

Answer

A study published before the campaign showed that most citizens were already aware of the importance of recycling.

Answer

The cost of the awareness campaign was significantly higher than the revenue generated from recycled materials.

Question 2

A business memo concludes, 'To boost our company's profits, we must cut our marketing budget. Our main competitor, a highly profitable company, spends very little on marketing.' What is the primary unstated assumption in this argument?

Accepted Answer

The two companies operate in identical market conditions and have similar brand recognition.

Answer

Marketing expenditures are the sole determinant of a company's profitability.

Answer

The competitor's low marketing budget is the primary reason for its high profitability.

Answer

Cutting the marketing budget will not negatively impact employee morale.

Question 3

Which of the following is a critical component of evaluating the evidence presented in an argument?

Accepted Answer

Checking the relevance and sufficiency of the evidence.

Answer

Assessing the personal opinions of the author.

Answer

Determining the length and complexity of the argument.

Answer

Verifying the emotional appeal of the evidence.

Question 4

A city council member argues: 'We should not approve the construction of the new stadium. A recent poll of 100 residents showed that 60% are opposed to it.' To properly evaluate this evidence, which of the following questions is most important to ask?

Accepted Answer

Was the poll sample representative of the city's entire population?

Answer

What was the margin of error for the poll?

Answer

Who funded the construction of the stadium?

Answer

How many stadiums does the city currently have?

Question 5

An argument that claims 'This new diet is effective because a famous celebrity endorsed it' is committing which logical fallacy?

Accepted Answer

Appeal to False Authority

Answer

Hasty Generalization

Answer

Circular Reasoning

Answer

Ad Hominem

Question 6

Consider the statement: 'Every time I wear my lucky jersey, my team wins. Therefore, my jersey causes the team to win.' Which of the following best describes the flaw in this reasoning?

Accepted Answer

The argument mistakes correlation for causation.

Answer

The argument presents a false dilemma.

Answer

The argument is based on a biased sample.

Answer

The argument oversimplifies the definition of 'winning'.