Critical Reading: Analyzing an Argument
Read the following passage:
"Many people believe that standardized tests are the best way to measure a student's academic potential. However, a growing number of educators argue that these tests only measure a student's ability to take tests, not their true understanding or creativity. For example, a student who excels in hands-on projects may perform poorly on a multiple-choice exam. Therefore, standardized tests should not be used as the sole criterion for college admissions."
A student is asked to evaluate the argument and consider its implications.
1. Identify the main conclusion of the passage and the evidence provided to support it.
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The main conclusion is that standardized tests should not be used as the sole criterion for college admissions. The evidence provided is that standardized tests may only measure test-taking ability rather than true understanding or creativity, and the example of a student who excels in hands-on projects but performs poorly on multiple-choice exams. This example illustrates that test scores may not reflect a student's full potential.
2. The passage assumes that hands-on projects are a better measure of a student's true understanding than standardized tests. Is this assumption explicitly stated or implied? Explain how this assumption affects the strength of the argument.
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The assumption is implied, not explicitly stated. The passage suggests that hands-on projects can reveal abilities that standardized tests miss, but it does not directly claim that projects are a superior measure. This assumption affects the argument's strength because if hands-on projects are not a reliable measure either, then the example does not necessarily undermine standardized tests. The argument would be stronger if it provided evidence that hands-on projects are a valid and reliable measure of understanding. Without that, the argument relies on an unstated assumption, which weakens its overall persuasiveness.