AWA Scoring and Criteria 4

Question 1

For the Analyze an Issue essay, which approach is most rewarded by AWA raters?

Accepted Answer

Taking a clear position and supporting it with specific, relevant examples and reasoning

Answer

High-scoring Issue essays take a clear stance and develop it with well-reasoned support and relevant examples.

Question 2

Which of the following AWA essay characteristics would a rater classify as showing 'little control of language'?

Accepted Answer

Systematic errors in grammar, syntax, and word choice that obscure meaning

Answer

Systematic, pervasive language errors that interfere with comprehension signal poor control of standard written English.

Question 3

What is the significance of the AWA score being reported separately from the Verbal and Quantitative scores?

Accepted Answer

It allows admissions committees to assess writing ability independently of other cognitive skills

Answer

Separate reporting lets programs evaluate writing as a distinct skill set from verbal or quantitative reasoning.

Question 4

Which of the following would MOST strengthen an Analyze an Issue essay score?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledging and thoughtfully countering opposing views

Answer

Addressing counterarguments and refuting them demonstrates sophisticated critical thinking, which raters reward with higher scores.

Question 5

AWA essays are read by trained raters who use what type of scoring method?

Accepted Answer

Holistic scoring that evaluates overall quality as a unified impression

Answer

AWA uses holistic scoring, where raters assign a single score reflecting their overall impression of the essay's quality.

(AWA) Analytical Writing Assessment Practice Test