Analysis of an Issue - address the other side?

[witwiyl]

Just want to make sure I'm understanding this correctly:

From my Kaplan class I'm pretty sure we were instructed to address the other side in one of the paragraphs, is that correct? So, if you agree with the author, you would have a couple paragraphs to support that, but then you would also mention how one could possibly disagree (since you chose to agree), right?

[VP_Jim]

In my opinion, one should pick a side of the issue and stick with it. I never advise students to argue (or even acknowledge) the other side, nor do I do that in my own essays - and I always score a 6.

Now, could you still get a 6 and spend a paragraph discussing the other side? I don't see why not. I just think it's more persuasive to spend your time arguing your position.