The Essay: A Test of Knowledge by Madison

The Essay: A Test of Knowledge by Madison - June 2015 Scholarship Essay

Writing an essay is the most idyllic form of assessment simply because it is a form of self-expression and a test of true knowledge. Unlike multiple choice which has a limited amount of choices as well as given answers, an essay fulfills an individual’s ability to express and portray their uniqueness. An essay also helps many who have difficulty communicating verbally because of shyness or insecurity to truly place their thoughts on paper. It is a form of writing and an open field that allows anyone to express their knowledge, emotions and thoughts.

Personally, writing is a perfect outlet for my true thoughts as well as knowledge. I can express my ideas about a topic and show great reflection rather than having to select answers through guessing or given test taking tactics. Multiple choice cripples the academic abilities of the average student as many study to pass a given test. Although many are passing multiple choice tests, their ability to express themselves have declined drastically. Multiple choice may not be the best way to test what a student comprehend in the classroom and how it applies in the real world.

The objectivity of a multiple choice question is unrealistic to real life. In real life there is no designated “correct” answer in life. You make your own decisions and learn from them. Multiple choice is a form of spoon-feeding in academics which places American students in a disadvantage when compared to its global counterparts. Because they test only in essay form, their academic ability is significantly higher.