<p>Hi everyone! I would really appreciate help on my practice essay (it's from the free test posted on CB). Please post any scoring predictions/criticisms here- thanks so much! Here's the prompt: </p>
<p>A colleague of the great scientist James Watson remarked that Watson was always "lounging around, arguing about problems instead of doing experiments." He concluded that "There is more than one way of doing good science." It was Watson's form of idleness, the scientist went on to say, that allowed him to solve "the greatest of all biological problems: the discovery of the structure of DNA." It is a point worth remembering in a society overly concerned with efficiency."
Assignment: Do people accomplish more when they are allowed to do things in their own way?</p>
<p>And here is the essay:</p>
<p>As a colleague of James Watson once noted, "There is more than one way of doing good science." In other words, he believes there is no set method for achieving various accomplishments. Whether it's a scientific discovery, a personal goal, or a revolutionary battle, success is often achieved through one's own, unique way. This observation is exemplified through both historical events, such as the American Revolution, and literary works, like George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion.
In the American Revolution, the British at first appeared to have the advantage, due to the country's strategic military leaders and strong navy. By contrast, the colonists' forces consisted of poorly equipped, barely trained farmers and inexperienced leaders, like George Washington. However, George Washington soon proved to be a brilliant leader despite his lack of a fixed strategy. Furthermore, Washington's military genius was exemplified by the Battle of Trenton. Even though crossing the freezing Delaware River appeared to be a daunting task, Washington chose to do things his own way and proceeded nonetheless. As a result, the colonists' won the battle and morale was boosted significantly. Evidently, Washington's ingenuity and innovation proved to be a key factor in his accomplishments.
In addition, Shaw's Pygmalion features a flower girl, Eliza, taught under a language professor, Higgins. While he tries to teach her through traditional methods, she eventually rebels and becomes independent from Higgins. Eliza chooses to do things her own way and marries Freddie despite Higgins's warnings. Eliza finds happiness with Freddie and starts a flower shop with him. Instead of enduring Higgins's harsh criticism and following his advice, Eliza achieves her dream by going her own way.</p>
<h2>Ultimately, individuals undoubtedly accomplish more through their own methods and ideas. Instead of following a plan laid out by others, people such as the American colonists and Eliza often achieve success through innovative, unique ideas. All in all, James Watson's colleague evidently was correct in assuming individuality is the key to success. </h2>
<p>What do you guys think? Thanks again!</p>