Using Debates and Reading Tasks to Enhance Candidates’ Performance in GRE Argument Writing Tasks (Journal Article)

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Abstract: This study explores the connection between debates/frameworks and reading tasks and GRE essays. The GRE writing component tests candidates’ abilities in writing two types of essays -– issue and argument. In both these essays, candidates are required to present their arguments very clearly or critique the topic given using suitable examples. This article explains how debates and reading activities can help them sharpen these skills and improve their writing performance in GRE writing tasks. After a 30-hour intervention period using debates and reading activities related to identifying parts of an argument based on Toulmin’s argument model, most learners seemed to show a marginal improvement in their writing with stronger claims, counterarguments and evidence.