AUWCT - Effective Writing Qualification Test Sample

Time: 2.5 hours

Choose ONE of the following questions and respond to it in a well-organized essay of approximately 400 words.

If you write too little, your essay may be judged an inadequate sample of your work. Essays will not be failed for being more than the suggested length; however, writing much more than required will not necessarily improve your essay.

No question requires special knowledge. None has a right answer, though your response must be directed to the question. Support your views and opinions by drawing on your personal experience, reading, prior course work, or any other appropriate resources.

Markers are looking for university-level writing competence. Be sure to check your work for logical arguments, clear organization, well-developed paragraphs, well-constructed sentences, accurate word use, and correct grammar, spelling and punctuation. You may consult an English language dictionary; however, bilingual dictionaries (eg. French/English), thesauri, electronic translators, or other aids are not permitted.

Please write on every second line. If your essay is clear and legible, you are not expected to recopy it. HOWEVER, PLEASE CROSS OUT ANY WORK YOU DO NOT WANT MARKED: DO NOT TEAR PAGES OUT OF THE BOOKLET.

NOTE: The Alberta Universities' Writing Competence Test carries the same status as a University final examination. Accordingly, any form of cheating on the test will be considered grounds for suspension from the University. Proof of identity will be required during the test.

Select an Essay Question

  1. Suppose you have been awarded a generous scholarship which enables you to spend a year studying the subject of your choice anywhere in the world. Explain what subject you would pursue and where you would study; give reasons for your choices.
  2. If you could add a new official holiday to those already observed in your country, what would it be, and why?
  3. Many psychologists and educators, as well as many parents of teenagers, claim that video arcades are harmful to society in general and young people in particular, and that the number and location of the arcades should therefore be strictly limited. Do you think that video arcades should be restricted?
  4. Do you think that, in general, society is improving or deteriorating?