How could Trica have crafted a stronger refutation
Answers
Answer:
mark me as a brilliant
Explanation:
Tips and tricks for tackling the Issue Essay
In addition to all of the math and English you'll have to tackle on the GRE, you'll also face two writing assignments: the Argument Essay and the Issue Essay.
Today, we'll discuss the Issue Essay: what it is, how to prepare for it, and tips and tricks to help you get the score you deserve on this sometimes-intimidating section of the test.
The basics
The Issue Essay is a 30-minute section of the GRE in which you will be asked to read a prompt positing an opinion and then craft a written argument for or against the opinion.
Let's look at a sample prompt:
Governments should place few, if any, restrictions on scientific research and development.
This will be followed by a set of boilerplate instructions such as:
Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
And you're off!
Both sides now
It doesn't matter which side of the argument you choose to come down on; there will never be a prompt with an "obvious" choice. For the example above, students with a libertarian streak might argue against government intervention, while those with a strong background in history might favor a heavier hand from the authorities.
What does matter is that you make your case clearly, use concrete, real-world examples and employ the old favorites: pathos, logos and ethos.
Say it like you mean it
Wishy-washy won't make it on the GRE; be firm and confident in your argument.
Look through your prep work to see if you’ve written any phrases like “I think” or “in my opinion.” If you have, mark them on your practice tests and make a mental note not to use them anymore. The reader knows that this argument is your opinion. Pointing out that fact actually makes your argument weaker. Take additional practice tests and be sure to double-check for these types of phrases.
Bolster your argument with strong examples
The best examples are the most specific ones. For this prompt, if we're arguing for government intervention, we might choose to bring up Doctors Frankenstein or Mengele, Unit 731, or any variety of mad scientists. Writing for the other side, we could choose to discuss laws forbidding desecration of human corpses, which arguably prevented the progression of medical science for many years.
Whichever position you choose to take, defend it with concrete examples. Remember this tip: the best examples involve capital letters—people, places or famous events. That's what we're looking for.
Practice with prompts
Sit down, shut off all distractions, set a timer for 30 minutes, pick a prompt at random (remember that you will not get to choose your topic during the test) and get to writing.
Conscientious test-prep should include a minimum of five practice Issue Essays.
Expose the counter-argument
No good argument can be complete without a refutation of the counter-argument. Be sure to include a short paragraph that outlines the opposing view and points out the flaws in it.
With these tips and tricks, you should have a leg up on conquering the Issue Essay. For additional help, give The Economist GRE Tutor a try: 7-day free trials are available.