Analysis of Issue AWA

By Abhi Tom on Jan 18, 2012 with Comments 0

GMAT AWA (Analytical Writing Assessment)-

GMAT AWA has sets two writing tasks in essay section i.e.

1. Analysis of an issue,

2. Analysis of an argument

Which are collectively called as the Analytical Writing Section. Both the tasks are designed to test critical thinking and analytical writing skills of the candidate. The writing task in essay section is of one hour which is further divided into two parts – 30 minutes for the issue and 30 minutes for the argument. You have to show your response in your type and there is no spelling check or grammar check available. Scores range from 0-6.

The detail description of both the analysis is as follows-

The Issue essay section is officially termed as Analysis of an Issue. The first task on the GMAT AWA is the discussion of an issue. The topic is intentionally open to interpretation. It is rather like a debate so that you can put your arguments in support of a position. A good issue-type essay will give highly specific reasons for a point of view, and back up its thesis with suitable examples. Minor errors in spelling punctuation or grammar will not prevent your getting a good mark but poor logical flow and vagueness will.

Format and Directions of Issue Analysis

In GMAT Issue writing task, there is 1 essay question or prompt. Both the first or second timed GMAT section and the Time Limit is 30 minutes.

In Testing format, You will use the built-in word processor to compose an essay response to an Issue statement but the test does not allow you to choose your topic from a list.

In the test, your skills are tested in which first they evaluate your ability to communicate your ideas effectively and in an organized manner through sound reasoning and relevant supporting examples. And second thing is your control of the English language i.e. word choice and usage and the conventions of standard written English i.e. grammar and sentence structure.

Structure of GMAT Issue-Analysis Prompt

A structure of GMAT Issue prompt consists of two main components:

• an issue of general interest
• A directive (instruction) for responding to the Issue statement.

In first part, a quoted statement on an issue of general interest. The quote may be real or fictitious, but in any case the source will NOT be provided.

In second part, a directive or instruction for responding to the Issue statement. The directive may ask how accurate you think the statement is or  the extent two which you agree with the statement, or it may ask In either case your task is essentially the same in position on the issue  than support that position with relevant reasons and/or examples.

Important Directions for the Issue Writing Task

Here are the directions that will appear on your screen when the timed Issue section begins. You’ll dismiss these directions and move ahead to the writing task by clicking on the DISMISS DIRECTIONS button.

Directions: In this section you will need to analyze the issue presented and explain your views on it. There is no “correct” answer. Instead, you should consider various perspectives as you develop your own position on the issue.

Writing Your Response: Take a few minutes to think about the issue and plan a response before you begin writing. Be sure to organize you ideas and develop them fully, but leave time to reread you response and make any revisions that you think are necessary.

Evaluation of Your Response: College and university faculty members from various subject-matter areas, including management education, will evaluate the overall quality of your thinking and writing. They will consider how well you:

• organize, develop, and express your ideas about the issue presented
• provide relevant supporting reasons and examples
• control the elements of standard written English