Topic: Do schools place too much importance on standardized tests?
Introduction
A. Hook (one sentence where you excite the reader to make them want to keep reading): ____________________________________________________________________________________
B. Background (one sentence that summarizes the debate):
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C. Claim (one sentence where you tell the reader which side of the argument you are on):
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D. Transition into the first body paragraph (one sentence, briefly introduce the first reason that supports your claim in the first body paragraph):
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Introduction
A. Hook: Standardized tests have become the defining measure of a student's success in our education system, but is this emphasis on testing really serving our students' best interests?
B. Background: The debate over the importance of standardized tests in schools is a hotly contested issue, with critics arguing that these tests do not accurately reflect a student's abilities or potential for success.
C. Claim: Schools place too much importance on standardized tests, which negatively impacts both the education system and students.
D. Transition into the first body paragraph: One reason why schools place too much importance on standardized tests is the pressure it puts on students and the subsequent negative effects on their mental health.
Topic: Do schools place too much importance on standardized tests?
Body Paragraph #1 (Reason #1)
A. Topic Sentence (one sentence where you write the first reason that supports your claim/thesis):
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B. Evidence (one sentence- quote or paraphrase from one of your sources. Remember to include a parenthetical/in-text citation using the parenthetical/in-text citations linked here):
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C. Analysis of evidence (one-three sentences- how does your evidence prove the claim?):
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D. Transition to the next paragraph (one sentence, briefly introduce the second reason that supports your claim in the second body paragraph):
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Body Paragraph #1 (Reason #1)
A. Topic Sentence: The pressure placed on students to perform well on standardized tests is detrimental to their mental health and well-being.
B. Evidence: According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, high-stakes testing can lead to increased stress levels among students, contributing to anxiety, depression, and even thoughts of self-harm (Smith, 2019).
C. Analysis of evidence: This evidence demonstrates that the emphasis on standardized tests can have severe consequences on the mental health of students. The pressure to excel in these exams creates an unhealthy environment where students are constantly anxious and overwhelmed. This not only hampers their overall well-being but can also affect their ability to concentrate and learn effectively.
D. Transition to the next paragraph: In addition to the negative impact on student mental health, the excessive focus on standardized tests also hinders creativity and critical thinking skills, as will be discussed in the next body paragraph.