AWA Critical Thinking & Argument Analysis 3

Question 1

An argument claims: 'City A implemented bike lanes and cycling injuries dropped; therefore, bike lanes reduce injuries.' Which flaw is most apparent?

Accepted Answer

Confusing correlation with causation

Answer

The argument assumes bike lanes caused the drop without ruling out other explanations, confusing correlation with causation.

Question 2

In evaluating an AWA argument, what is the purpose of identifying 'unstated assumptions'?

Accepted Answer

To expose gaps the argument depends on but never proves

Answer

Unstated assumptions are the hidden premises that must be true for the argument to work; exposing them reveals the argument's vulnerabilities.

Question 3

A report argues that a town's water quality improved because a new filtration plant opened. Which finding would most UNDERMINE this conclusion?

Accepted Answer

A major polluting factory upstream closed the same month the plant opened

Answer

If the factory closed simultaneously, it is an alternative explanation for improved water quality, undermining the plant's claimed role.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of a 'false dilemma' fallacy?

Accepted Answer

'We must either increase taxes or cut all social services—there is no other option.'

Answer

A false dilemma presents only two options when more exist, forcing a choice between extremes.

Question 5

When analyzing evidence quality in an AWA argument, which source should be treated with the most skepticism?

Accepted Answer

A study funded exclusively by the company that benefits from its positive results

Answer

Funding bias can influence study design, analysis, and reporting, making industry-funded research with a financial stake less reliable.

(AWA) Analytical Writing Assessment Practice Test