AWA AWA Issue Task Writing 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which element is most important in the opening paragraph of an AWA Issue essay?
- A dictionary definition of a key word from the prompt
- Background history about the topic spanning several sentences
- A clear thesis that signals your position to the reader (Correct answer)
- A rhetorical question with no stated answer
Correct answer: A clear thesis that signals your position to the reader
The introduction must orient the reader and culminate in a thesis that reveals the essay's central argument.
Question 2: How should you handle exceptions to your position in an Issue essay?
- Ignore them entirely so as not to undermine your argument
- List them without commenting on their relevance
- Acknowledge them briefly, then explain why they do not negate your overall position (Correct answer)
- Begin the essay by listing all exceptions before stating your thesis
Correct answer: Acknowledge them briefly, then explain why they do not negate your overall position
Conceding limited exceptions while explaining why they don't overturn your main claim demonstrates intellectual honesty and strengthens your credibility.
Question 3: What is the typical time allocation for the AWA Issue Task on the GRE?
- 15 minutes
- 45 minutes
- 30 minutes (Correct answer)
- 60 minutes
Correct answer: 30 minutes
Test-takers are given 30 minutes to plan and write the Issue essay on the GRE.
Question 4: When brainstorming for the AWA Issue Task, which strategy is most effective?
- Start writing immediately without planning to maximize time
- Jot down your position, two or three supporting reasons, and a counterargument before drafting (Correct answer)
- List every fact you know about the topic regardless of relevance
- Rewrite the prompt in your own words as the entire brainstorm
Correct answer: Jot down your position, two or three supporting reasons, and a counterargument before drafting
A brief pre-writing outline ensures your essay stays focused and that each paragraph serves a clear argumentative purpose.
Question 5: What is the recommended length for a high-scoring AWA Issue essay?
- One well-developed paragraph of 150–200 words
- Exactly five paragraphs regardless of content
- Roughly 4–6 paragraphs totaling approximately 450–600 words (Correct answer)
- As many paragraphs as possible to show breadth of knowledge
Correct answer: Roughly 4–6 paragraphs totaling approximately 450–600 words
High-scoring essays are typically 450–600 words organized into a clear introduction, well-developed body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Question 6: How should you begin drafting your AWA Issue essay after reading the prompt?
- Write the conclusion first so you know your endpoint
- Immediately begin the introduction by restating the prompt verbatim
- Decide on your position, note two or three key reasons, then write the introduction (Correct answer)
- Write each body paragraph before deciding on a thesis
Correct answer: Decide on your position, note two or three key reasons, then write the introduction
Settling on your position and core reasons before drafting keeps the introduction purposeful and ensures the body paragraphs align with the thesis.
AWA AWA Issue Task Writing 2
Which element is most important in the opening paragraph of an AWA Issue essay?