<p>I'm taking the November SAT (this Saturday: uh-oh!), and I wrote a practice essay. Could someone please grade it?</p>
<p>Prompt: Are people better off when they do not listen to criticism?</p>
<p>My response:</p>
<p>The question "Are people better off when they do not listen to criticism?" has boggled the minds of great scholars throughout history. However, evidence throughout history and literature has conclusively shown that it is detrimental to not listen to and accept criticism. Those who oppose this view are dogmatic in their ideology. Evidence that supports both these claims is pervasive.</p>
<p>The story of general Kobinanguna in the mythical battle of Munackasat serves as part of the evidence to prove that people are better off when they heed criticism. General Kobinaguna was only defending his post against his adversaries instead of attacking them. However, this was proving to be a bane: the opposition's attacks were so powerful that Kobinaguna was being pushed closer to the brink of surrendering. Furthermore, Kobinanguna was heavily chastised by his superiors for his diffident, defensive moves in the battle. Having no choice, Kobinaguna chose to heed the criticism and assume a more aggressive, attacking stance in the war. This crucial choice proved to be the tipping point: immediately after choosing to listen to and accept criticism, Kobinaguna reversed the direction of the battle, and it turnd out that he won this crucial battle. This classic story exemplifies the importance of listening to criticism; criticism is indeed very beneficial.</p>
<p>Another pervasive piece of evidence which shows the importance of listening to criticism can be found in the novel Neran Jonam. The main character, Neran, is a highly arrogant young man, always proud of all his accolades. However, his parents and peers repeatedly warn him that such an attitude can lead to great social failures. Choosing to disregard this constructive criticism, Neran continues to assume his vain disposition. It just so happens that later, Neran's attitude brought about his downfall: in a tennis tournament, he repeatedly yelled condescending remarks at his opponent, which resulted in Neran's disqualification. His prescient friend's advice and criticism, left unheeded, resulted in this catastrophe. Had Neran listened to the criticism and changed his attitude accordingly, he would have likely been better off, which would mean his winning of the tennis tournament. </p>
<p>Yet another set of evidence which epitomizes the significance of listening to criticism can be found in Arthur Miller's The Crucible. Reverend Parris, a minister, is primarily concerned about society's perception of him. He then proceeds to perpetrate the Salem witch trials in order to make his abode free of such activities. However, as the trials progress, the more important and influential citizens of Salem head to the scaffold to be executed. Criticism now falls heavily upon Parris and the proponents of the trials. However, to protect his image, Parris ignores the criticisms. This results in his exile from Salem. Had Parris listened to the criticism, he would have likely had his job, and been better off. Hence, it is beneficial to heed criticism and advice.</p>
<p>The above examples are highly pervasive in proving that criticism is a benefactor to all people in the world.</p>
<p>COMMENTARY:</p>
<p>The first two examples are fake. I made up random words on the spot and created stories to match the prompt. </p>
<p>I went for quantity rather than quality; I'm under the impression that this technique is crucial to scoring higher on the essay.</p>
<p>Please rate/comment!</p>