Как выглядит новое задание Writing в экзамене LSAT?

Новая секция эссе на LSAT была изменена, чтобы лучше оценивать аналитические способности кандидатов. Ниже приведен пошаговый подход к успешному выполнению этой секции.

Основные изменения

Формат задания: Теперь вам нужно сформировать аргумент вокруг данной темы, используя по крайней мере одну из четырех предложенных точек зрения.

Время: У вас есть 50 минут, из которых 15 минут рекомендуется потратить на предварительную планировку и 35 минут на написание самого эссе.

Пошаговый подход

Ознакомьтесь с темой (5 минут):

Внимательно прочтите ключевые вопросы и предложенные точки зрения.
Определите главную тему и возможные направления аргументации.

Планирование (10 минут):

Выберите точку зрения, которую вы будете использовать для поддержания своего тезиса.
Создайте план вашего эссе, определите основные аргументы и контраргументы.

Написание вступления (5 минут):

Кратко представьте ваш тезис.
Объясните, какую точку зрения вы выбрали и почему.

Обзор основных аргументов (15 минут):

Распишите главные аргументы в поддержку вашего тезиса.
Используйте выбранные точки зрения для усиления вашей позиции.

Контраргументы (10 минут):

Представьте наиболее значимые контраргументы.
Объясните, почему эти контраргументы могут быть неубедительными.

Вывод (5 минут):

Кратко обобщите ваш тезис и аргументы.
Предоставьте завершающее мнение по теме.

Проверка (5 минут):

Просмотрите эссе на наличие грамматических ошибок и логических несоответствий.

Пример задания

Purpose of Public Libraries

Public libraries have long served as vital community resources, providing free access to books, information, and a variety of services. Traditionally, libraries have been seen as places of learning, personal development, and community gathering. However, in the digital age, the role of public libraries is being questioned. Some argue that libraries should evolve to meet new technological and social needs, while others believe that libraries should remain focused on their traditional roles. Given the changing landscape of information and community needs, it’s worth considering what the overall goal of a public library should be.

Perspective 1 — an excerpt from a technology blog

“Today’s rapidly advancing technology has made information more accessible than ever before, and public libraries need to keep up with these changes. Libraries should prioritize providing access to digital resources and training in digital literacy. This will help ensure that all community members, regardless of socioeconomic status, have the skills needed to navigate the modern world. By focusing on technology and digital inclusion, libraries can remain relevant and continue to serve their communities effectively.”

Perspective 2 — an excerpt from a community newsletter

“Public libraries have always been places where people can come together, learn, and grow. They offer a space where individuals can explore a wide range of interests, from literature to history to the arts, and engage in lifelong learning. Libraries should continue to prioritize their traditional roles as centers of learning and personal development. By providing access to books, educational programs, and cultural events, libraries can enrich the lives of community members and foster a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.”

Perspective 3 — an excerpt from a sociology textbook

“Public libraries play a crucial role in the social fabric of communities. They provide not just books and information, but also a space for socialization and community building. Libraries help bridge social divides by offering resources and services to all members of the community, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. By focusing on their role as community hubs, libraries can promote social cohesion and inclusivity, helping to create stronger, more connected communities.”

Perspective 4 — an excerpt from a journal on public policy

“The traditional model of the public library, with its emphasis on physical books and quiet study spaces, is increasingly out of step with the needs of today’s society. Public libraries need to evolve to become more dynamic and responsive to community needs. This might include offering more diverse programs and services, such as job training, health and wellness workshops, and makerspaces. By reimagining their role, libraries can better serve their communities and remain vital institutions in a rapidly changing world.”

Prewriting Questions

Which perspective(s) do you find most compelling?
What relevant insights do you see in the perspective(s)?
What principles or values do you see at work in the perspective(s)?
What strengths and weaknesses can you find in the perspective(s)?

Your argument should incorporate or address ideas from at least one of the perspectives provided. In addition, your own knowledge, experiences, and personal values can be valid sources of evidence, and you can include these in your essay:

What knowledge do you already have about this issue? Consider information you have read or heard, including things you’ve learned at home or school, etc.
What values influence your position on this issue? Consider your worldview or belief system, as well as any guiding principles or convictions you hold.
What experiences do you have that might be relevant to this issue? Consider any personal experience you might have with this or similar issues, or other relevant lessons learned from your own life.