Writing Issue and Argument Essays for the GRE: Utilizing Indian Contexts
The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) assesses a range of skills, including the ability to analyze and present arguments. For students from India, incorporating relevant examples from their cultural and social context can significantly enhance the quality and relevance of their essays. This article will guide you through the process of writing an issue and an argument essay for the GRE, emphasizing the use of Indian examples.
Understanding the Prompt for Issue Essays
Issue essays present a statement or claim that you must respond to by taking a clear position. The first step is to understand the prompt thoroughly. Break down the statement and reflect on why it might be true or false. This will help you formulate a strong thesis statement.
Structuring Your Issue Essay
Here’s a suggested structure for your issue essay:
Presentation of the Thesis Statement
The introduction should clearly state your stance and outline the main points you will discuss.Body Paragraphs
Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of your argument, supported by concrete examples from Indian contexts. Use gender equality, caste discrimination, and educational reforms as examples to illustrate your points. Include counterarguments to strengthen your essay and show your critical thinking skills.Conclusion
Summarize your key points and restate your thesis. Conclude with a final thought or call to action.Understanding the Argument for Argument Essays
Argument essays require you to critique a given argument, identifying its assumptions and evaluating its reasoning. The structure is similar to the issue essay, but with a focus on logical analysis and counterarguments.
Structuring Your Argument Essay
Here’s a suggested structure for your argument essay:
Presentation of the Argument and Thesis Statement
The introduction should briefly summarize the argument and state your thesis regarding its strengths and weaknesses.Body Paragraphs
Analysis should cover the reasoning behind the argument, pointing out any logical fallacies or unsupported assumptions. Use examples from Indian contexts, such as environmental policies or public health initiatives, to illustrate your points.Suggestions for Improvement
Offer ways the argument could be strengthened or revised.Conclusion
Summarize your analysis and reiterate your main points.Tips for Using Indian Contexts
When incorporating examples from Indian contexts, follow these tips to make your essay more compelling:
Be Specific
Use concrete, specific examples that are relevant and relatable to your audience. For instance, discuss the Mandal Commission Act reservations in education or the relations between the central and state governments.Stay Relevant
Ensure that your examples directly support your argument or critique. For example, if discussing environmental policies, focus on the Ganga River Cleanliness Mission or theAir Quality Conservation of India.Cultural Sensitivity
Be mindful of the diverse perspectives within India and avoid generalizations. For instance, when discussing healthcare policies, consider the National Health Insurance - Alternative and its impact on both rural and urban areas.Conclusion
Using Indian contexts in your GRE essays can add depth and relevance to your arguments. By following the outlined structure and tips, you can create compelling and well-supported essays that stand out to GRE evaluators. Remember to be specific, stay relevant, and maintain cultural sensitivity throughout your writing.