SAT Essay Samples - Tổng hợp 5 bài mẫu SAT Essay high-scoring

SAT Essay kiểm tra kỹ năng đọc hiểu (reading), phân tích (analysis) và trình bày lập luận (writing) của thí sinh. Đề bài bao gồm một đoạn trích với nội dung trình bày về một vấn đề nào đó và tác giả sẽ thuyết phục người đọc về quan điểm của mình. Từ đoạn trích này, thí sinh sẽ phân tích các dẫn chứng, lập luận và phong cách ngôn ngữ được sử dụng để ủng hộ quan điểm chính trong bài.

Bài viết dưới đây sẽ giới thiệu 5 SAT Essay Samples để thí sinh tham khảo ý tưởng và từ vựng, từ đó chuẩn bị tốt hơn cho bài thi đòi hỏi kỹ năng tư duy ngôn ngữ khá cao này.

SAT Essay Sample #01

Đề bài: Write an essay in which you explain how Eliana Dockterman builds an argument to persuade her audience that there are benefits to early exposure to technology. (SAT Practice Test #3 Essay)

Sample:

In the passage “The Digital Parent Trap” by Eliana Dockterman, the author presents a compelling argument regarding the advantages of early exposure to technology. Dockterman contends that introducing children to technology at a young age can yield cognitive benefits, offer valuable learning opportunities, and prepare them for the competitive demands of the modern world.

To begin with, Dockterman highlights the cognitive advantages of early tech use. She emphasizes that educational games, often criticized as ineffective, have been shown to improve logic skills significantly. For instance, a study by the nonprofit research firm SRI demonstrated that children who played logic-based games outperformed their peers on logic tests. The author's use of evidence and logical reasoning to support this point makes her argument convincing. By showing that technology can enhance cognitive development, Dockterman challenges the notion that screen time is inherently detrimental to children.

Furthermore, Dockterman acknowledges contrasting viewpoints on the subject, such as the Waldorf Schools' limitations on technology. This approach underscores her balanced perspective and enriches her argument. While the Waldorf Schools restrict the use of technology, Dockterman argues that social-networking sites, for instance, enable children to engage with specialized communities of interest, thus broadening their horizons. By addressing opposing views, the author demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the issue, making her argument more persuasive.

Another compelling aspect of Dockterman's argument is her appeal to urgency and competitiveness. She suggests that early tech fluency is essential for success in education and careers, particularly in fields like programming and biotechnology. By invoking the idea that students who lack exposure to technology may be left behind, Dockterman taps into readers' concerns about their children's future prospects. This appeal to staying competitive resonates with readers who prioritize preparing their children for the demands of the modern workforce.

In conclusion, Eliana Dockterman effectively builds her argument in "The Digital Parent Trap" by utilizing evidence, addressing contrasting views, and appealing to urgency and competitiveness. Her persuasive techniques bolster her central claim that early exposure to technology offers numerous benefits. While the debate on children's screen time continues, Dockterman's argument provides a compelling perspective on the potential advantages of embracing technology in their upbringing.

Tóm tắt luận điểm chính SAT Essay Sample 01:  

• Tác giả chứng minh trò chơi giáo dục cải thiện kỹ năng logic, với nghiên cứu SRI cho thấy trẻ em chơi trò chơi dựa trên logic thực hiện tốt hơn các bài kiểm tra logic.

• Tác giả thể hiện sự hiểu biết tinh vi về vấn đề bằng cách đối diện với quan điểm trái chiều, và lập luận rằng các trang mạng xã hội mở rộng tầm nhìn của trẻ em.

• Tác giả nhấn mạnh tính cấp thiết và cạnh tranh của việc cho trẻ tiếp xúc sớm với công nghệ, vì công nghệ đóng vai trò quan trọng trong thành công nghề nghiệp và để tránh nguy cơ bị bỏ lại phía sau. 

Từ vựng cần ghi nhớ:

• Cognitive benefits /ˈkɒɡnɪtɪv ˈbɛnɪfɪts/: Lợi ích về mặt nhận thức.

• Logic-based games /ˈlɒdʒɪk-beɪst ɡeɪmz): Trò chơi dựa trên logic.

• Opposing views /əˈpoʊzɪŋ vjuːz/: Quan điểm trái chiều.

• Nuanced understanding /ˈnuːɑːnst ˌʌndərˈstændɪŋ/: Sự hiểu biết tinh tế.

• Tech fluency /tɛk ˈfluənsi/: Sự thành thạo về công nghệ.

SAT Essay Sample #02

Đề bài: Write an essay in which you explain how Eric Klinenberg builds an argument to persuade his audience that Americans need to greatly reduce their reliance on air-conditioning. (SAT Practice Test #5 Essay) 

Sample:

In his essay, “Viewpoint: Air-Conditioning Will Be the End of Us”, Eric Klinenberg constructs a persuasive argument advocating for a significant reduction in Americans' dependence on air-conditioning (AC). Klinenberg contends that excessive energy consumption, the health benefits for vulnerable populations, and the environmental impact of current cooling practices necessitate a reevaluation of our AC usage.

Klinenberg begins by emphasizing the alarming rise in energy use for air-conditioning over the past two decades, stating that Americans now consume more energy for AC than the rest of the world combined. He employs factual data to underline the magnitude of the issue and appeals to reason by highlighting the imprudence of such behavior in an era of climate change. By presenting indisputable evidence of the excessive energy consumption associated with AC, Klinenberg effectively bolsters his central argument.

The author also appeals to readers' emotions and logic by addressing the health benefits of AC, especially for vulnerable populations during heatwaves. Klinenberg argues that AC units can save lives, particularly among the elderly and those with health vulnerabilities. This appeal to the readers' empathy and logical thinking aligns with his overarching argument that there are essential situations where AC can be life-saving. By weaving in both emotional and logical appeals, Klinenberg engages readers on a deeper level and strengthens his argument.

Furthermore, Klinenberg critiques the environmental consequences of our reliance on AC and the unsustainable design practices of modern buildings. He highlights the shortsightedness of constructing properties that rely solely on AC for cooling without considering alternative methods, such as shading from trees or cross-ventilation. This critique underscores his argument that current cooling practices are environmentally damaging. By pointing out the unsustainability of this approach, Klinenberg effectively pushes his readers toward his perspective.

In conclusion, Eric Klinenberg persuasively builds his argument in "Viewpoint: Air-Conditioning Will Be the End of Us" by utilizing factual evidence, emotional and logical appeals, and critique of current practices. His argument that Americans need to greatly reduce their reliance on air-conditioning is substantiated by an array of compelling points. While Klinenberg does not address whether one should eliminate AC entirely, he successfully convinces his audience to reconsider and reduce their excessive use of this energy-consuming and environmentally damaging cooling technology.

Tóm tắt luận điểm chính SAT Essay Sample 02: 

• Tác giả sử dụng dữ liệu thực tế để nhấn mạnh thực thế tiêu thụ năng lượng quá mức. 

• Tác giả chỉ ra lợi ích sức khoẻ của máy lạnh, một hình thức kêu gọi vừa đầy cảm xúc vừa thực tế. 

• Tác giả chỉ ra tác động xấu của các thực hành không bền vững (phụ thuộc hoàn toàn vào máy lạnh) đối với môi trường. 

Từ vựng cần ghi nhớ: 

• Excessive energy consumption /ɪkˈsɛsɪv ˈɛnərdʒi kənˌsʌmˈpʃən/: Tiêu thụ năng lượng quá mức.

• Prudent /ˈpruː.dənt/: Thận trọng, khôn ngoan, có suy tính.

• Vulnerable /ˈvʌlnərəbl/: Dễ bị tổn thương.

• Shortsightedness /ˈʃɔːrtˌsaɪtɪdnəs/: Tầm nhìn ngắn hạn.

• Unsustainable design practices /ʌnˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈzaɪn ˈpræktɪsɪz/: Các thực hành thiết kế không bền vững.

SAT Essay Sample #03

Đề bài: Write an essay in which you explain how Christopher Hitchens builds an argument to persuade his audience that the original Parthenon sculptures should be returned to Greece. (SAT Practice Test #6 Essay)

Sample:

Christopher Hitchens, in his essay “The Lovely Stones”, masterfully constructs an argument to persuade his audience that the original Parthenon sculptures should be returned to Greece. Hitchens underscores their historical significance, appeals to the concept of reunification, and uses evocative language to emphasize the grotesque separation.

Hitchens begins by highlighting the historical significance of the Parthenon sculptures. He utilizes evidence and reasoning to depict the removal of these treasures from their rightful place in Greece. The mention of Lord Elgin's removal of approximately half of the adornment of the Parthenon serves as a compelling example. Hitchens argues that these sculptures constitute the most lavish and beautiful sculptural treasury in human history. His arguments and evidence create a persuasive case by emphasizing the importance of these artifacts to Greece's cultural heritage.

The author then appeals to both emotion and logic by presenting the concept of reunification. Hitchens prompts readers to imagine a scenario in which the Mona Lisa was split between different museums. This hypothetical situation drives home the idea that reuniting separated artworks is a natural desire, evoking both emotional attachment and logical curiosity. By raising this analogy, Hitchens strengthens his argument by making readers consider the absurdity of the sculptures' current separation.

Furthermore, Hitchens employs evocative language to underscore the grotesque nature of the sculptures' separation. He describes how various body parts of sculptures are now housed in different locations, creating a vivid and unsettling image. The use of the word "grotesque" elicits a strong emotional response from the audience, further emphasizing the need for reunification. Hitchens' word choice and tone are instrumental in persuading readers to support his argument.

In conclusion, Christopher Hitchens effectively builds his argument for the return of the original Parthenon sculptures to Greece by highlighting their historical significance, appealing to the concept of reunification, and using evocative language to emphasize the grotesque separation. His persuasive techniques make a compelling case for the sculptures' repatriation, emphasizing their rightful place in Greece's cultural heritage.

Tóm tắt luận điểm chính SAT Essay Sample 03: 

• Tác giả làm nổi bật ý nghĩa lịch sử của các tác phẩm điêu khắc Parthenon, nhấn mạnh vai trò của chúng đối với di sản văn hóa Hy Lạp.

• Tác giả trình bày khái niệm về sự thống nhất với ví dụ giả định là Mona Lisa, từ đó nêu lên việc tái hợp các tác phẩm nghệ thuật bị tách rời là mong muốn tự nhiên.

• Tác giả sử dụng ngôn ngữ gợi cảm để nhấn mạnh sự kỳ cục của việc chia rẽ các bộ phận của tác phẩm điêu khắc, đặc biệt qua từ “grotesque.” 

Từ vựng cần ghi nhớ: 

• Repatriation /ˌriːˌpeɪ.triˈeɪ.ʃən/: Sự trả lại (cho quốc gia gốc).

• Adornment /əˈdɔːrn.mənt/: Sự trang điểm, trang trí.

• Multifaceted /ˌmʌl.tiˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/: Đa diện, đa chiều.

• Enduring /ɪnˈdʊr.ɪŋ/: Kéo dài, bền vững, không thay đổi theo thời gian.

• Community-oriented /kəˈmjuː.nə.ti ˈɔː.ri.ən.tɪd/: Hướng tới cộng đồng, tập trung vào cộng đồng.

• Grotesque /ɡroʊˈtɛsk/: Xấu xí, kỳ cục.

SAT Essay Sample #04

Đề bài: Write an essay in which you explain how Zadie Smith builds an argument to persuade her audience that public libraries are important and should remain open. (SAT Practice Test #7 Essay)

Sample:

In her essay “The North West London Blues”, Zadie Smith passionately argues for the importance of public libraries and advocates for their continued existence despite the challenges they face. Smith employs persuasive elements such as evidence, reasoning, and appeals to emotion to strengthen her argument and convince her audience that libraries are vital community assets.

Smith begins her essay by framing the issue of library closures as a multifaceted problem. She addresses the viewpoint that libraries have become obsolete in the digital age, emphasizing that each library is unique, serving diverse purposes and communities. By doing so, Smith sets the stage for her central argument: the value of libraries extends beyond mere functionality. She asserts that libraries offer something irreplaceable in today's society.

To support her argument, Smith provides evidence of libraries' significance. She mentions the packed university library where students choose to study, even though they have access to digital resources at home. This example illustrates the enduring appeal of physical libraries and challenges the notion that the internet can replace them entirely. Smith's use of this evidence underscores her claim that libraries continue to hold value in contemporary life.

Smith further strengthens her argument by highlighting the diverse roles libraries play. She acknowledges that libraries cater to different demographics and offer various services. By presenting libraries as adaptable and community-oriented institutions, she reinforces the idea that they serve critical functions that cannot be replicated online. Smith's reasoning effectively demonstrates the versatility of libraries and their ability to meet a range of needs.

In addition to evidence and reasoning, Smith appeals to the emotions of her audience. She recognizes that the fight to save libraries is not solely an ideological or logical one but an emotional one. She describes the passionate efforts of people who love their libraries, regardless of their political beliefs. By emphasizing the emotional connection people have to libraries, Smith humanizes the issue and underscores its significance in people's lives.

In conclusion, Zadie Smith uses a combination of evidence, reasoning, and emotional appeals to build a persuasive argument in favor of preserving public libraries. She successfully contends that libraries offer unique and essential services that cannot be replaced by digital resources. Smith's essay serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring value of libraries in our communities, encouraging readers to recognize their importance and advocate for their preservation.

Tóm tắt luận điểm chính SAT Essay Sample 04: 

• Tác giả coi vấn đề đóng cửa thư viện là có nhiều khía cạnh, nhấn mạnh rằng mỗi thư viện là duy nhất, phục vụ các mục đích và cộng đồng đa dạng.

• Tác giả cung cấp bằng chứng thư viện đại học đông đúc dù sinh viên có tài liệu mạng ở nhà. 

• Tác giả nhấn mạnh vai trò đa dạng, linh hoạt của thư viện khi phục vụ cho nhiều đối tượng nhân khẩu học khác nhau.

• Tác giả thu hút cảm xúc của người đọc bằng cách mô tả những nỗ lực đầy nhiệt huyết của những người yêu thích thư viện, dù niềm tin chính trị không giống nhau. 

Từ vựng cần ghi nhớ: 

• Obsolete /ˌɑːbˈsiːlɪt/: Lỗi thời, không còn phù hợp hoặc cần thiết nữa.

• Irreplaceable /ɪˈreɪplɪsəbl/: Không thể thay thế.

• Humanize /ˈhjuːmənaɪz/: Làm cho cái gì đó trở nên nhân văn hơn.

SAT Essay Sample #05

Đề bài: Write an essay in which you explain how Bobby Braun builds an argument to persuade his audience that the US government must continue to invest in NASA. (SAT Practice Test #8 Essay)

Sample:

In his article “Space Technology: A Critical Investment for Our Nation's Future”, Bobby Braun makes a compelling argument for the necessity of continued investment in NASA by the U.S. government. Braun contends that such investment is vital for preserving America's technological leadership and economic competitiveness. By employing evidence, reasoning, and outlining future prospects, Braun strengthens his argument and persuades his audience of the importance of NASA's sustained funding.

Braun's first supporting point emphasizes the historical significance of NASA in shaping America's technological landscape. He skillfully uses evidence from NASA's past achievements, including the Apollo missions and space exploration, to demonstrate the agency's remarkable track record in pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and capability. By reminding readers of these monumental successes, Braun underscores the critical role NASA has played in advancing American technology.

A second crucial element of Braun's argument addresses the current state of NASA. He highlights a chronic underinvestment in basic and applied research within the agency, citing a sobering assessment from the National Research Council. This report suggests that NASA's technology base is depleted and that existing technology is inadequate for many intended space missions. Braun's use of this expert opinion adds credibility to his argument and underscores the urgency of the situation, making his case for increased investment even more persuasive.

Furthermore, Braun paints a compelling vision of NASA's future in his third supporting point. He envisions NASA maturing systems required for future missions, which will lower costs for other government agencies and commercial space activities. The prospect of developing transformative technology and creating high-tech jobs is an appealing outcome of this investment. By presenting these future benefits, Braun not only addresses the immediate need for NASA funding but also aligns the agency's mission with broader national interests.

In conclusion, Bobby Braun effectively builds his argument for continued government investment in NASA by employing evidence, reasoning, and future prospects. His portrayal of NASA's historical significance, critique of its current state, and vision for the future strengthens his central claim that NASA's funding is essential for preserving America's technological leadership and economic competitiveness. While the debate over government spending continues, Braun provides a compelling perspective on the long-term benefits and significance of continued support for NASA's endeavors.

Tóm tắt luận điểm chính SAT Essay Sample 05: 

• Tác giả nhấn mạnh tầm quan trọng lịch sử của NASA trong việc định hình bối cảnh công nghệ của nước Mỹ, bao gồm bằng chứng như sứ mệnh Apollo.

• Tác giả trích dẫn một đánh giá từ Hội đồng Nghiên cứu Quốc gia, nhấn mạnh sự thiếu đầu tư vào nghiên cứu cơ bản và ứng dụng ở NASA.

• Tác giả phác thảo tầm nhìn tương lai tích cực và đem lại nhiều lợi ích của NASA, từ đó khẳng định sự cần thiết cho việc đầu tư để phát triển. 

Từ vựng cần ghi nhớ: 

• Pioneering /ˌpaɪəˈnɪrɪŋ/: Đứng đầu, tiên phong.

• Underinvestment /ˌʌndərɪnˈvɛstmənt/: Sự đầu tư không đủ, không cung cấp đủ tiền hoặc nguồn lực cho một mục tiêu hoặc dự án.

• Depleted /dɪˈpliːtɪd/: Cạn kiệt, làm giảm đi hoặc tiêu hao toàn bộ.

• Versatility /ˌvɜːr.səˈtɪl.ə.ti/: Khả năng thích nghi, linh hoạt, đa năng. 

• Aligns /əˈlaɪnz/: Sắp xếp, cân chỉnh.

Tổng kết 

Như vậy, bài viết trên đã cung cấp SAT Essay Sample để thí sinh tham khảo ý tưởng và từ vựng, từ đó có thể làm quen và luyện tập với dạng bài này tốt hơn. SAT Essay Sample sẽ tạo cho thí sinh nền tảng để đọc hiểu, phân tích và viết bài, và xa hơn nữa là chuẩn bị cho các bài luận văn khi học Đại học.

Thí sinh có thể vận dụng những kiến thức này và đăng tải bài SAT Essay của mình lên ZIM Helper - Diễn đàn hỏi đáp Tiếng Anh để nhận được đánh giá khách quan từ cộng đồng.

Đọc tiếp:

• Tính mạch lạc trong văn viết học thuật (Academic Writing)

• Các đặc tính của một đoạn văn tranh luận (Argumentative paragraph)

Trích dẫn

Home – SAT Suite of Assessments | College Board, satsuite.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/sat-practice-test-6-essay.pdf.