Author's Purpose
Why did Karen Ann Cullotta write this article?
To inform readers about a debate over cutting electives in a school district.
What evidence does the article provide that many parents oppose the cuts?
Lori Reich's online petition collected more than 700 signatures.
How do the parents' concerns in paragraphs 1-7 connect to the expert's opinion in paragraphs 16-19?
Both groups worry that cutting hands-on classes is a mistake.
What text structure does this article mainly use?
Problem and solution (or cause and effect).
Which of these best describes Cullotta's purpose in including Lori Reich's quote in paragraph 2?
To show the perspective of someone opposed to the cuts.
According to paragraph 18, what specific evidence does Carol Werhan use to support her argument?
A 2014 study showing 3.5 million students are enrolled in life skills classes.
How does Superintendent Bein's argument in paragraph 14 respond to the parents' main concern?
She explains that some of the cooking class content is already taught in health class.
What is the tone of Lori Reich's statement in paragraph 3?
Concerned or worried.
The article includes both parent concerns and the superintendent's responses. What is Cullotta's purpose in presenting both sides?
To present a balanced view of the issue.
Which detail from the article best supports the idea that the new program is expensive?
The $885,000 cost for the new Creative Learning Systems program.
What is the relationship between the district's proposal (paragraphs 8-9) and the superintendent's defense of it (paragraphs 10-15)?
The superintendent is explaining why the district chose to replace the old classes instead of keeping both.
In paragraph 19, Carol Werhan uses the phrase "run after the next hot topic." What does this phrase suggest about her tone?
Critical or disapproving.
Why does Cullotta include specific details like "$885,000" and "Creative Learning Systems" in paragraph 8?
To provide factual information about the district's proposal.
What two details from paragraph 7 show which specific classes would be cut?
Broadcast journalism, global perspectives and world cultures, and career connections class.
How do Carol Werhan's comments in paragraph 19 directly challenge the district's reasoning?
She argues that not all students need STEM jobs, so cutting these classes is short-sighted.
How does the article's organization (presenting parents' views first, then the district's response) affect how readers might view the issue?
It might make readers sympathize with parents first before hearing the district's side.
How does including Professor Werhan's opinion help the author achieve her purpose?
To show that experts have concerns about cutting hands-on classes.
What details does the article provide about what the new Creative Learning Systems program would include?
New curriculum, furniture, resources, equipment, technology, teacher training, and construction costs.
How do the superintendent's statements about art, music, and drama classes connect to the overall debate?
She is trying to show that the district still values creative learning, even though hands-on classes are being cut.
Based on the article, what is the main disagreement between the school district and the parents?
Whether cutting hands-on electives to add STEM classes is the right choice for students.