C H A P T E R
Analytical Writing Assessment Pretest
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In the following chapters, you will learn all about the GMAT® Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section: the kinds of topics you will be asked to write about, how you will be expected to write about those topics, and how your essays will be scored. You will also review strategies for effective analytical writing and learn spe- cific tips and strategies that can be used on the exam.
Before you begin the AWA review, take the following pretest. Use this practice test to help you determine
how much preparation you need for this section of the exam.
(cid:2) Pretest
The following AWA pretest contains two essay prompts, one of each kind of prompt you will see on the actual exam. This pretest is designed to give you a sense of what to expect and help you assess your strengths and weaknesses for this portion of the exam. When you are finished, compare your results to the scoring guide and sample essays in the answer key. Use the results to plan your study time effectively and determine the areas where you need the most careful review and practice.
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Test-Taking Tip
When practicing essays on your computer, be sure to turn off the spell check and grammar check; the word-
processing program on the GMAT exam will not include either of these features.
To practice the timing of the GMAT exam, spend 30 minutes on each essay. On the test, you will have to write both essays in one hour, so do both essays consecutively for the most realistic practice test scenario. Make every effort to write your essays on a computer with a basic word processor. The more practice you have composing and revising on the computer, the more comfortable you will be on the exam.
If you cannot practice composing on a computer, use the following lined paper to write your responses.
Also, be sure you have scratch paper available so that you can brainstorm and outline your essays.
DO NOT READ THE ESSAY PROMPTS UNTIL YOU ARE READY TO BEGIN THE PRETEST. READ ONLY THE FIRST PROMPT. READ THE SECOND PROMPT ONLY AFTER YOU HAVE COMPLETED THE FIRST ESSAY AND ARE READY TO BEGIN THE SECOND.
(cid:2) Analysis of an Issue
“Successful corporations have a moral responsibility to contribute to society by supporting education, nonprofit services, or the arts.”
Discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with this opinion. Support your position with reasons and/or examples from your own experience, observations, or reading. Complete your essay in 30 minutes.
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–ANALYTICAL WRITING ASSESSMENT PRETEST–
(cid:2) Analysis of an Argument
The following idea was proposed in a meeting of the owners of an upmarket restaurant.
“The only way to expand our customer base is to move to a location that gives us much more expo- sure. In our current location, we don’t get enough business because we are too isolated. We should find a space next to another store or near a transportation hub.”
Discuss how well-reasoned you find this argument. In your essay, be sure to analyze the argument’s logic and use of evidence. For example, you may need to consider whether the assumptions that underlie the argu- ment are sound or whether counterarguments or alternative explanations would weaken the conclusion. You may also discuss the kind of evidence that would strengthen or refute the argument, what revisions to the argument would make it more reasonable, or what information, if anything, would help you better evaluate the argument. Complete your essay in 30 minutes.
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–ANALYTICAL WRITING ASSESSMENT PRETEST–
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–ANALYTICAL WRITING ASSESSMENT PRETEST–
(cid:2) Answer Explanations
The following model essays earn a 6 on the AWA section, the top score on the written exam. Both essays have most or all of the following characteristics:
CONTENT
DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION EXPRESSION
CONVENTIONS
–ANALYTICAL WRITING ASSESSMENT PRETEST–
The content of your The development of The organization of The expression of The use of standard
written response your written your written your ideas reflects English in your writ-
shows an under- response gives a response shows a an awareness of ten response
standing and inter- clear and logical coherent, orderly, audience, a com- exhibits the correct
pretation of the explanation of ideas and well-reasoned mand of vocabulary use of spelling,
issue or argument using specific and approach. and sentence struc- punctuation, para-
and the task pre- relevant support. ture, and an ability graph organization,
sented in the to use language to capitalization, and
■ Forms a thesis
■ Develops ideas
■ Maintains the
■ Exhibits a
■ Shows control of
prompt. convey purpose. grammar.
■ Provides a wide
■ Uses a logical
■ Has few, if any,
■ Applies skillful
■ Has a voice and
■ Presents a
clearly and fully. focus of the the- mature, sophisti- the conventions statement that sis statement. cated use of lan- of standard reveals an in- guage that is English. range of relevant depth under- precise and and specific evi- and coherent standing of the engaging. dence to support structure. errors even when issue or argu- the thesis state- using sophisti- ment. ment. cated language. writing devices a sense of aware-
■ Varies the struc-
and transitions. ness of audience sophisticated and purpose. and insightful
analysis of the ture and length of issue or argu- sentences to ment. enhance
(cid:2) Sample Essay — Analysis of an Issue (Score: 6)
All for-profit corporations have a moral responsibility to contribute to society by supporting education, non- profit services, or the arts. In today’s increasingly global marketplace, companies that embrace their social responsibilities and empower their leaders and employees to serve local and world communities will reap rewards now and for years to come. These companies will realize that they will reap long-term benefits in morale and bottom-line growth and sustainability by giving their personnel the opportunity to work toward
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meaning.
