AWA - Analytical Writing Assessment Argument Deconstruction Questions and Answers

Question 1

In the context of the AWA, what is the primary goal when deconstructing an argument?

Accepted Answer

To identify and evaluate the unstated assumptions and logical flaws in the author's reasoning.

Answer

The core task of the AWA is not to state a personal opinion but to critically analyze the provided argument's logical structure. This involves identifying the underlying assumptions the author makes without providing evidence and pointing out any logical fallacies that weaken the conclusion.

Question 2

An argument claims: 'Since our town implemented a new recycling program last year, the local landfill has received 15% less waste. Therefore, to reduce landfill waste in your town, you should implement the same recycling program.' Which of the following is a critical unstated assumption in this argument?

Accepted Answer

The new recycling program is the sole cause for the reduction in landfill waste.

Answer

The argument commits a potential correlation vs. causation fallacy. It assumes that because the recycling program was implemented before the waste reduction, it must be the cause. However, other factors could be responsible, such as a new composting initiative, a major business closure, or a population decline. The argument's validity depends on this assumption being true.

Question 3

When deconstructing an argument for the AWA, which of the following is LEAST important to focus on?

Accepted Answer

The grammatical correctness and style of the original author's writing.

Answer

Your task in the AWA is to critique the logic and reasoning of the argument, not the author's writing style or grammar. While a poorly written argument might be harder to read, your analysis should focus on the flaws in its structure, assumptions, and evidence, rather than its prose.

Question 4

A business memo argues that because a four-day workweek increased productivity at a tech company, the same policy should be adopted at a manufacturing plant to boost its productivity. Deconstructing this argument would most likely involve identifying which logical fallacy?

Accepted Answer

Faulty Analogy (or Inappropriate Comparison)

Answer

This argument relies on an analogy between a tech company and a manufacturing plant. A critical deconstruction would question whether these two entities are comparable in ways relevant to productivity and work schedules. The nature of work, employee roles, and operational needs are likely very different, making the comparison potentially flawed.

Question 5

Which of the following, if true, would most effectively WEAKEN an argument that claims a new marketing campaign is responsible for a recent increase in sales?

Accepted Answer

During the same period, the company's main competitor went out of business.

Answer

This statement provides a compelling alternative explanation for the increase in sales. If the main competitor disappeared, their customers would need to go elsewhere, providing a direct and significant reason for the sales boost that is unrelated to the marketing campaign. This weakens the original argument by challenging its causal claim.

(AWA) Analytical Writing Assessment Practice Test

(AWA) Analytical Writing Assessment Practice Test

AWA - Analytical Writing Assessment Argument Deconstruction Questions and Answers