AWA AWA Rhetorical Strategies and Persuasion 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of using analogies in an AWA essay?

Accepted Answer

To make an abstract or complex idea more concrete and accessible

Answer

Analogies map familiar concepts onto unfamiliar ones, helping readers grasp and accept complex arguments.

Question 2

What does 'hedging language' accomplish in academic and AWA writing?

Accepted Answer

It acknowledges the limits of a claim, making it more defensible and precise

Answer

Words like 'often,' 'in many cases,' and 'tends to' narrow the scope of a claim so it is harder to refute.

Question 3

Which rhetorical strategy involves using specific examples to support a general claim?

Accepted Answer

Inductive reasoning

Answer

Inductive reasoning moves from specific observations or examples to a broader generalization, a common and effective AWA strategy.

Question 4

In an AWA essay, what is the function of a 'concession'?

Accepted Answer

To acknowledge a valid point from the opposing view before reinforcing your own position

Answer

A concession shows fairness and intellectual honesty by granting merit to a counterpoint before explaining why your overall argument still holds.

Question 5

What distinguishes a persuasive argument from mere assertion in an AWA essay?

Accepted Answer

A persuasive argument provides reasons and evidence; an assertion states a claim without support

Answer

Bare assertions declare a position without justification; persuasion requires reasons, evidence, and logical connections to the claim.

(AWA) Analytical Writing Assessment Practice Test