POV
What is the POV and how does it impact the story?
Emma felt nervous as she stood at the starting line, doubting her ability to win. Meanwhile, across the track, Mia stretched her legs, confident she would take first place. The coach glanced at his stopwatch, hoping to see a new record today. As the whistle blew, the runners took off, each with their own thoughts and goals pushing them forward.
Third person omniscient; this deepens the reader's understanding of the characters because they know their intimate thoughts.
How does Mia's personality change in this excerpt? Bonus: What words show her new personality trait?
At the start of the school year, Mia sat in the back of the classroom, her head down, hoping the teacher wouldn’t call on her. She scribbled notes furiously but never raised her hand. Now, as the final debate began, she stood tall at the front of the room, her voice clear and steady. “I completely disagree,” she said, looking her opponent in the eye. “And here’s why.”
Mia goes from being quiet and shy to being confident and outspoken.
Bonus: "...she stood tall at the front of the room, her voice clear and steady."
What are two major keys to writing a good argumentative essay?
Having a strong thesis and supporting evidence.
Which is the best piece of supporting evidence for an argument about humans contributing to climate change?
A. A report that states that global temperatures have risen by approximately 1.1°C since the late 19th century.
B. An anecdote about how the writer knows someone who says it's colder than usual this winter.
C. An article that states that experts predicted global cooling in the 70's.
D. National weather reports from the last 50 years to show a change in climate.
A. A report that states that global temperatures have risen by approximately 1.1°C since the late 19th century.
Which of the following is a counterclaim to the argument that school uniforms improve student behavior?
A) "School uniforms promote equality among students by eliminating competition over fashion."
B) "Many students argue that wearing uniforms restricts their ability to express themselves through clothing."
C) "Studies show that schools with uniforms report a decrease in bullying incidents."
D) "Uniforms help create a focused and disciplined learning environment."
B) "Many students argue that wearing uniforms restricts their ability to express themselves through clothing."
True or False: The point of view of a story affects how much the reader knows and how they connect with the characters.
True
What is Ben like at the beginning of the story? How does he change?
Ben used to forget everything—homework, practice times, even his best friend’s birthday. But now, his planner was full of notes and reminders. As he zipped up his bag, he double-checked his list: Math assignment? Done. Soccer cleats? Packed. Gift for Ryan? Wrapped and ready. He smiled. This time, he wouldn’t let anyone down.
Ben goes from being irresponsible to being reliable.
Which is the strongest claim for an argumentative essay?
A. Technology affects people in many ways.
B. Exercise is good for your health.
C. Schools should implement later start times because it would improve student performance.
D. Schools should be better for students.
C. Schools should implement later start times because it would improve student performance.
Which of the following is the strongest piece of evidence to support the claim that exercise improves mental health?
A) "Exercise is important for staying healthy."
B) "Studies show that regular physical activity helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety."
C) "Many people believe exercise is good for you."
D) "Some people feel better after going for a walk."
B) "Studies show that regular physical activity helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety."
What would be a good counterclaim for the following:
Social media has a negative impact on teenagers' mental health.
Up to teacher discretion
What is the POV of the following story and how does it affect the story?
I couldn’t believe it—I had actually won the race! My heart pounded as I stood on the podium, sweat dripping down my face. All the training, the early mornings, the sore muscles—it had all been worth it. As I looked into the crowd, I spotted my best friend cheering wildly. I grinned, knowing this was a moment I would never forget.
First Person POV, which creates a deeper understanding of the characters emotions because the reader knows about her thoughts.
How does Lena's perspective change towards the end of the story?
Lena always thought her grandfather’s old stories were boring—just endless tales about “the good old days.” She’d nod absentmindedly while scrolling through her phone, waiting for him to finish. But one afternoon, as he spoke about leaving his home as a boy with nothing but a suitcase and a dream, she noticed the way his hands trembled, the way his voice softened with memory. For the first time, she set her phone down. “What happened next?” she asked, leaning in. And for the first time, she truly listened.
Lena began to see the importance in her grandfather's stories.
Which of the following is the strongest claim for an argumentative essay about the price of organic fruit?
A) Organic fruit is expensive.
B) Some people think organic fruit costs too much because they don't make enough money.
C) The high price of organic fruit is justified because of the costs of sustainable farming practices, labor, and certification requirements.
D) Organic fruit should be cheaper so that more people can buy it.
C) The high price of organic fruit is justified because of the costs of sustainable farming practices, labor, and certification requirements.
What is most likely this writer's argument based on the supporting evidence provided below?
Extracurricular activities help students develop skills that contribute to better academic performance and engagement.
Which of the following statements is a counterclaim to the argument that climate change is caused by human activities?
A) "Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, are the main contributors to climate change."
B) "Some scientists argue that the Earth’s climate has changed naturally throughout history, and current changes could be part of this natural cycle."
C) "The increase in greenhouse gas emissions is accelerating the effects of climate change."
D) "Climate change is a critical issue that requires immediate global action."
B) "Some scientists argue that the Earth’s climate has changed naturally throughout history, and current changes could be part of this natural cycle."
What could be added to take this sentence from third person limited to third person omniscient?
Liam hesitated before stepping onto the roller coaster, his hands gripping the safety bar tightly.
The writer can include Liam's inner thoughts and feelings.
What sentence lets indicates that Leo has changed his ways?
The first time Leo was caught cheating, he swore it wasn’t his fault. “The test was too hard,” he muttered. But when his teacher placed the next quiz on his desk, he let out a slow breath. No glancing at his neighbor’s paper this time. His hand shook as he answered the last question, but when he turned it in, something inside him felt lighter.
"No glancing at his neighbor's paper this time."
Which of the following is the most clear and effective conclusion statement for an argumentative essay?
A) Overall, my argument is correct, and people should agree with me.
B) In conclusion, exercise is good for you, so everyone should do it.
C) As you can see, my points prove that exercise is important.
D) All in all, exercising every day can help people improve their physical health and mental health.
D) All in all, exercising every day can help people improve their physical health and mental health.
Which of the following is the strongest piece of evidence to support the claim that exercise improves mental health?
A) "Exercise is widely regarded as a key factor in maintaining overall health, with many studies highlighting its importance for both physical and mental well-being."
B) "Research has consistently shown that engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, running, or cycling, can help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, providing a natural alternative to medication."
C) "While some people believe that exercise has a positive effect on mental health, others feel that it’s not always effective in combating stress or anxiety."
D) "Many people claim they feel better and experience a sense of relief after exercising, though individual experiences may vary significantly."
B) "Research has consistently shown that engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, running, or cycling, can help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, providing a natural alternative to medication."
Animal testing should be banned.
Which of the following is the best counterclaim?
A) "Animal testing has contributed to important medical breakthroughs that have saved countless human lives."
B) "Animal testing should be stopped because it is unethical and causes harm to animals."
C) "Some people argue that animals have rights and should not be used in experiments."
D) "Testing on animals has led to cures for diseases like cancer and HIV."
A) "Animal testing has contributed to important medical breakthroughs that have saved countless human lives."
What is the POV and how does it impact the story? Bonus: What literary element does this POV create?
Emma’s heart raced as she stood at the starting line. She wiped her sweaty palms on her shorts, glancing nervously at the other runners. What if she tripped? What if she came in last? Shaking the thoughts away, she focused on the coach’s whistle. As soon as it blew, she pushed off with all her strength, determined to prove to herself that she could do this.
Third person limited; it doesn't include any of the main characters inner thoughts, so the reader isn't as informed.
This sense of mystery and limited information creates suspense.
What sentence indicates to the reader that Leo feels good about the changes he made?
The first time Leo was caught cheating, he swore it wasn’t his fault. “The test was too hard,” he muttered. But when his teacher placed the next quiz on his desk, he let out a slow breath. No glancing at his neighbor’s paper this time. His hand shook as he answered the last question, but when he turned it in, something inside him felt lighter.
"...but when he turned it in, something inside him felt lighter."
What is the thesis in this argumentative intro paragraph?
Many studies show that later school start times could have a significant impact on students’ health and academic performance. Teenagers, in particular, need more sleep, and early school hours do not align with their natural sleep cycles. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that students who get more sleep are more alert, focused, and better prepared to learn. A later start time would allow students to get the rest they need, which could lead to improved grades and a reduction in tardiness and absenteeism.
A later start time would allow students to get the rest they need, which could lead to improved grades and a reduction in tardiness and absenteeism.
What 3 types of evidence would best support an argument about lowering the voting age to 16?
(500 points per correct answer)
1. A survey of teenagers asking about voting
2. High school test scores showing high scores in Social Studies and Civics
3. An article written by the department of civics about voting age laws
Come up with an argument and a counterclaim for the existence of school.
Up to teacher discretion