This Packet Is to Help You. Use It!

Students:

While I do want you all to enjoy your break, I still think you need to work and practice your writing. You have a big test coming up when you return, and I want you all to feel prepared and ready! What is provided below are some sample persuasive and expository prompts (one of each will be assigned to you on your test). Deconstruct them by following the Five Part Method we covered in class (speaker, subject, task, type of essay and hints). Create an outline on how you would format them (remember your hook, thesis/claim, etc). Finally, pickone of the prompts you like and respond to it in the form of a twenty-six lined essay.

This packet is to help you. Use it!

Remember:

• Do not use “I” – we want to be professional and objective.
• Structure is important – have your intro, paragraph 2, paragraph 3 and your conclusion.
• Always have a thesis – this is the topic + opinion (sometimes + reason)
• Avoid silly words like “sucks” “stupid” “dumb” – sound intelligent with your writing! Use the thesaurus!
• Do not be bias – do not talk badly of the other side of your argument.

What I recommend:

• Read some short stories during the break or a book – this will help with your sentence structure and your vocabulary.
• Do your free-writing – this is beneficial for your writing practice.

If you get stuck, my email is . I will try to respond as promptly as I can, but I will not give you answers, nor write your paper. I will only provide guiding questions and suggestions to assist you. This is because I know you have the potential to write well, you just over-think it sometimes. 

Good luck!

Persuasive Prompts

1. Though texting is a valuable way of communicating, some people spend too much time sending messages by phone instead of interacting with others face to face. Addressing an audience of your peers, explain why you agree or disagree with this observation.

1. Most of the so-called "reality programs" on television are highly artificial and bear little resemblance to real life. Drawing on one or more specific programs for your examples, explain why you agree or disagree with this observation.

1. Online learning is not only convenient for students and teachers but often more effective than traditional classroom instruction. Addressing an audience of your peers, explain why you agree or disagree with this observation.

1. Teachers and administrators in many American schools are now authorized to conduct random inspections of students' lockers and backpacks. Explain why you support or oppose this practice.

1. In a speech or essay directed at a younger friend or family member, explain why dropping out of high school to take a job before graduation is or is not a good idea.

1. In a speech or essay addressed to the head of your school or college, explain why snack and soda vending machines should or should not be removed from all classroom buildings on your campus.

1. Over the past 20 years, more and more public schools have implemented policies requiring students to wear uniforms. Explain why you support or oppose mandated school uniforms.

1. The city council is now considering a proposal to allow construction of a shelter for homeless individuals and families. The proposed site for the homeless shelter is adjacent to your campus. Explain why you support or oppose this proposal.

1. Research has shown that a short afternoon nap can promote physical well-being and improve mood and memory. Explain why you support or oppose a proposal to adjust schedules so that napping will be encouraged at your school or workplace, even if this means a longer work day.

1. The introduction of new digital technologies has radically altered people's reading habits over the past 25 years. In light of this change, explain why students should or should not be required to read lengthy textbooks and novels in their classes.

1. Some school authorities have the power to remove from libraries and classrooms any books that they consider inappropriate for children or teens. Pointing to specific examples of how this power has been exercised, explain why you support or oppose this form of censorship.

1. In your school or college, instructors have the right to ban cell phones (or mobiles) in their classrooms. Explain why you favor or oppose such a ban.

Expository Prompts

1. A home in the community has been destroyed by a recent flood. Explain how you would help the family recover from the loss.

1. If you were given the opportunity to spend two hours each week working on a community task of your choice, explain where you would volunteer and why, what you would accomplish, and how it would benefit your community

1. In our increasingly global society, many people feel that all students should be required to learn a foreign language before graduating from high school. Do you agree? Why or why not? Explain your position using specific reasons and examples.

1. What makes a good leader? Explain what you think leadership is all about and what makes certain people better leaders that others. Support your definition of a good leader with examples so the reader clearly understands what you mean

1. Identify how computers improve our daily lives. Write an essay in which you develop your position with supporting material and examples taken from your reading, experience, or observations. Explain how computers benefit you in your daily life.

1. Because of many issues, teenagers have to have a curfew. Using a good reason with supporting evidence and details, explain why some cities have curfews for teens.

1. Adults are always saying “I wish I had your problems” to teenagers, stating they think teenagers do not go through as much stress as adults. Many teens would argue against this. Using evidence and support, describe the major stresses in teens’ lives.

1. The United States are diversely growing with fashion, food, technology and music. Choosing one, explain the impact of that choice on society.

1. The passing rate for high school students is declining rapidly. Many teachers feel that this is because students are ditching class. Explain the likely consequences of skipping classes.

10. Sibling rivalry is a term that many teenagers know. But sometimes parents wonder if it is more than that. Explain the likely consequences of brothers and sisters constantly fighting.

11. With the cosmetology industry booming, parents are concerned that their children are spending way too much time on how they look than their academics. Explain why teens wear makeup.

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