For example, say this is what I did for my topic proposal:
EXAMPLE 1:
Topic: ISIS
Diagnosis: Too broad! There is waaaayyy too much to write about when it comes to ISIS. It would be too daunting to look at ISIS as a whole.
To help me focus my topic, I would answer these questions:
- What specifically about X (i.e. ISIS) do I want to explore?
- What is going on regarding X (ISIS) right now? What is the news saying about X? What are some new developments regarding X? New concerns? New issues?
Say to yourself: Okay, it's great that I want to look at something regarding ISIS, but what specifically about ISIS do I want to explore?
Next step: I do some research (like you are doing) and even look on Wikipedia and do a quick Google search, and then I come up with a specific question that will guide my research:
Specific question: What is the U.S.'s involvement in tightening its borders due to recent terrorist attacks?
·
THEN, after doing research on that specific question (which you will continue to research next week), my claim will most likely answer the question:
Claim question: “Should the U.S. tighten its
borders due to recent terrorist attacks?”
Finally, my claim will be either: "Yes because x, y and z." OR "No because x, y and z."
(Note: This is a very simple claim. Do not worry about the claim just yet. I am trying to show you the evolution of my thinking.)
Want another example? Here we go...
EXAMPLE #2:
Topic: Death Penalty
What about the death penalty?
Avoid arguing “Should the death penalty be legal?”
After doing some quick research on the death penalty,
this is what I found from Yahoo News:
·
In Georgia, an inmate was recently executed on
Tuesday, December 8, 2015. Records from previous executions show the legal drug
generally starts flowing within a minute or two when a warden leaves the
execution room. A newspaper reporter was allowed to be in the room when the
inmate was strapped to the gurney and the IV lines were placed. The reporter
noted how nurses appeared to have trouble placing the needle in his left arm,
and the process took about an hour, which is longer than usual. He was the
fifth inmate executed this year in Georgia, which is the most executions the
state has carried out in a calendar year since 1987.
Specific question:
Is Georgia’s current method of the death penalty inhumane and does it need to
be changed?
Claim: Yes/No because x, y and z.
Third time's the charm...
EXAMPLE #3:
Topic: Police Shootings
Specific Question: What can be done to support police but at the same time protect citizens' rights so they are not violated during police/pedestrian interactions?
Potential Claim: All police should have to wear body cameras as part of their uniform.
Last example :)...
Example #4:
Topic: Steroids in Baseball
Controversy: Currently there has been much controversy surrounding
steroids in baseball. From Roger
Clemens’ vehement denials to the congressional hearings, it seems that every
sports show or sports page in the nation is addressing this controversy. For this paper I plan to study this issue; I
will be looking at the controversy from multiple points of view: the players’,
coaches’, media, and fans’ perspectives.
Specific Question: Is there any place for anabolic steroids in professional sports?
Claim: There is no place for anabolic steroids in professional sports.
So, after all of this, what's the assignment??
Due Monday, December 14th
- Post on the blog the following (in this format):
- Your Topic: ____________________
- Controversy: In 2-3 sentences, write why this is so controversial and why it's a topic that needs to be looked at right now.
- Specific question(s) that will guide your research: ________________
(Example #4 is a good model to help you)
Once you post to the blog, we will spend some time in class looking at one another's topics and we'll help one another with them next week.
GOOD LUCK! I'M EXCITED TO SEE HOW YOUR THINKING HAS EVOLVED!
Topic: GMO's/GEO's
ReplyDeleteControversy: GMO's today have the potential to end world hunger and create many benefits that non-modified foods can give to people but the issue of the long term effects that it has on the environment and the human body are unknown. Currently, some researchers are arguing that they can effect the environment negatively by killing certain bacteria and microbes necessary for a healthy ecosystem.
Question?- Do GMO's pose threats to the environment and human health?
Jon,
DeleteYou have a really interesting topic. Here is an article you may want to check out that could potentially be used as a counterclaim to your argument.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/05/us/on-hawaii-a-lonely-quest-for-facts-about-gmos.html?_r=0
Also, Starbucks was catching heat for using genetically modified beans earlier this year--something you might want to check out!
Julia Cutler
ReplyDeleteMy topic: The Pledge of Allegiance
Specif question: Does "Under God" in the pledge discriminate against other religions who believe in more than one God or does it break the first amendment?
Claim: Should we eliminate "Under God" from the Pledge of Allegiance?
Controversy: Critics the two words in the pledge say that they violate the First Amendment, which prohibits the establishment of a national religion (freedom of religion) otherwise known as separation of church and state. They say the inclusion of the words "under God" amounts to government endorsement of religion. Other critics of say that "Under God" discriminates against people of religions that believe in more than one God, and people who don't believe in God at all.
Such an interesting topic and so relevant to students in school!
DeleteReally cool and interesting topic, I never even viewed this from your perspective and it does show a very interesting, new lense to look at something we have learned to do since we were 5.
DeleteThis a link that I found would help you in your research-- http://blog.constitutioncenter.org/2014/04/the-latest-controversy-about-under-god-in-the-pledge-of-allegiance/
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteTopic: Designer Babies (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis)
ReplyDeleteControversy: There is great debate over the moral/ethical issues associated with genetically designing children. While this is not currently actually scientifically possible (outside of genetic illness screening and gender detection), many afraid that scientific innovation will spiral into the ability to select anything from hair color to personality type. However, the fears that designer babies will eventually breed a "super human race" or become a tool for eugenics are based upon fallacious reasoning. Presently, there are a variety of situations in which PGD is incredibly beneficial; savior sibling matching, medical illness prevention, etc.
Questions - Does government have the right to regulate/prohibit PGD to the masses based upon the ethical confliction of the few?
Kendall: This is a really interesting topic. Would you consider making one of your view points looking at "Designer Babies" as being an amazing technological advance rather than the ethics of it?
DeleteHere's a link that I think may help:
http://www.livescience.com/44087-designer-babies-ethics.html
Topic:ISIS
ReplyDeleteControversy: Currently the controversy surrounding ISIS is worldwide. The question is should the U.S step foot in Europe to help with the recent attacks in Paris, Or Are they doing the right thing in keeping their hands out of Europe? For my paper I plan to look at the different viewpoints of Paris and the U.S. Does Paris want help from the U.S? And is the U.S really willing to help?
Specific Question: Is the U.S willing to intervene with the recent attacks on Paris and clearly state it's devoted bond with France.
This is a good topic because it is something that is affecting our entire country. I think this is an interesting topic because there is so much to learn about it. It is a good idea to focus on if the US should get involved with what happened with France, otherwise it could be too broad of a topic.
DeleteHere is a link that relates to your topic:
http://web.b.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail/detail?vid=2&sid=fe1f044e-a416-4ed5-b28d-58296d991694%40sessionmgr120&hid=107&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#AN=110956226&db=nfh
Alexa,
DeleteSuch an important topic that we need to talk about right now--everyone needs to be aware of this.
Try this debatable question, which yields a focused argument: How should the U.S. contain ISIS? There is so much debate right now regarding this. I know Mrs. McAndrews gave you an article, but I'm going to place the link here in case you find it useful:
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/08/world/middleeast/us-strategy-seeks-to-avoid-isis-prophecy.html?emc=edit_th_20151208&nl=todaysheadlines&nlid=42130712&_r=0
Was just watching the nightly news and look what I found! Today, the U.N. resolved to defeat ISIS by choking their money supply. Check it out:
Deletehttp://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2015/12/17/world/middleeast/ap-un-united-nations-islamic-state-financing.html
http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/isis-terror/u-n-security-council-moves-stem-isis-funding-n482046
Saw this too about Obama's claim of why he doesn't want to send in troops.
Deletehttp://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/18/world/middleeast/president-obama-national-counterterrorism-center.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&clickSource=story-heading&module=first-column-region®ion=top-news&WT.nav=top-news
Topic: Is social media good for adolescents?
ReplyDeleteControversy: Social media has become integrated into our everyday lives for a few years now. Social media platforms are designed to connect people and allow them to share parts of their lives with friends and family. However, social media has also created new issues, especially with teenagers. I plan to research whether or not social media has a negative impact on adolescents.
Specific Question: Is social media usage a cause of depression and low self-esteem in teenagers?
This is a really interesting topic. I'm interested to see how much of an impact social media has on teen behaviors.
DeleteI found an article that might help with the question you asked.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/09/150911094917.htm
Emilie,
DeleteSuch an important topic to discuss right now. This may offer a counterclaim to your argument. Check it out:
http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/oct/05/teens-social-networking-good-for-them
Emilie,
DeleteThis is a really interesting topic. This is important topic today because a lot of people are always on their phones/social medias.
A article that I found was
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/suren-ramasubbu/influence-of-social-media-on-teenagers_b_7427740.html
Christina Schmidt
Nice idea! Here's a interesting link!
Deletehttp://www.pewinternet.org/2015/04/09/teens-social-media-technology-2015/
Topic: The drinking age
ReplyDeleteControversy: Ever since the drinking age was changed from 18 to 21,there has been a debate whether or not it was effective. Many problems seen due to the change was an increase in binge drinking, especially seen with college students. College presidents are currently arguing that the drinking age should be lowered.
Questions: Why do they want it lowered? How much of an impact has the MLDA21 really made on those who are under 21? Should the drinking age return to 18?
I think this is a good topic to research on. I think looking more in depth of the damages of the brain or social aspects of the effects of alcohol it can have on a person will benefit and strengthen the article
Deletehttp://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=122765890
Sophie,
DeleteAlways a controversial topic. Check out this link:
http://www.cnn.com/2014/07/16/us/legal-drinking-age/
Topic: Vaccinations
ReplyDeleteControversy: Vaccinations can prevent diseases and doctors prefer people to take vaccinations. Vaccinations help people live a healthy life. Some people choose not not get vaccinated. There is evidence that the vaccinations actually prevents diseases. However, people know that information and still choose to be at a risk for disease. I plan to research the vaccination rates and why some people choose not to take them. I will look into the effects of vaccinations on religion and the side effects. Also, I will look into into parents opinions why they do not want to vaccinate their children.
Specific Question: Can people who don’t take vaccinations miss more school when they are sick then people who got vaccinated? Why are vaccinations against some religion?
Potential Claim: Everyone should take vaccinations because vaccines prevent deadly diseases.
This seems like a very interesting topic. Do you have a certain age that you are focusing on or is it in general?
DeleteI found a link that might be helpful-
http://ic.galegroup.com/ic/ovic/AcademicJournalsDetailsPage/AcademicJournalsDetailsWindow?
Christina,
DeleteCheck out this link, which provides a video on vaccinations. It might be worthwhile looking into the measles spread in Disneyland earlier this year!
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2015/02/05/measles-vaccine-immunization-health/22916079/
Topic: Abortions (Late-Term)
ReplyDeleteControversy: Late termination of pregnancy are more controversial than abortion in general because they result in the demise of a fetus that is more developed and sometimes able to survive independently. Given the complex, gradual nature of human fetal development, the definition of "late" in this context is not precise, and different medical publications have discussed the varying gestational age points that can be involved.
Questions: -How late is "too late" for an abortion?
-Why do people find late term abortions so fatal?
This is a really interesting topic. Would you consider bringing in the religious side of this debate? It might help you better figure out where the hesitation towards abortion comes from.
DeleteCheck out this website: http://www.efc.org.uk/PDFs/Abortion%20and%20religion%20leaflet%202011.pdf
Neil,
DeleteSuch a controversial topic. I like how you phrase your questions. You should find a lot on this topic.
Your Topic: Medical Marijuana
ReplyDeleteControversy: .There is a huge debate whether the use of Marijuana should be legal for medical use or not. Whether or not the health benefits of smokable marijuana out way the harmful effects of smoking. Also there is a debate on will adolescents think marijuana is healthy if it becomes legal for medical use.
Specific question(s) that will guide your research: What message are we sending to our kids if Marijuana is legalized?
Jake,
DeleteYou have a really important topic to write about. From what you wrote, consider this, which will hopefully set you up for a specific argument:
It is legal to purchase marijuana in four states: Alaska, Colorado, Oregon and Washington--as well as in the District of Columbia. Since many states allow medicinal marijuana, you can focus your paper on recreational use. You can argue if NY state should legalize recreational marijuana by looking at Colorado as a model state and examine how the recent marijuana legalization legislation has affected crime rates, local and state economies, education, agriculture, etc. You can compare states that legalized marijuana to states that still prohibit citizens from possessing it.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteTopic: Prostitution
ReplyDeleteControversy: There is controversy in the United States as to whether or not Prostitution should be legalized. One group of people don't see why it shouldn't be legal, and the others don't see why it should. Only one state in the US has legalized prostitution and that is Nevada.
Specific Question: Should the whole state of Nevada legalize Prostitution? Why did Nevada decide to legalize Prostitution?
This is a very interesting topic, but what do you mean by the whole state of Nevada? You should talk about why the certain parts of Nevada legalized it and why the other parts don't want to. http://www.theguardian.com/world/2007/sep/07/usa.gender
DeleteHannah,
DeleteSuch a hot topic. For your so what?! you can look at the legalization of prostitution in the U.S.
Would you consider looking at its positive/negative economic effects in Nevada? This question can then lead you to your so what.
SAMPLE STUDENT
ReplyDeleteTopic: Paying college athletes
Controversy:
Many people have expressed concern about whether or not college athletes should be paid. Some argue that college athletes are performers and should be paid for their time and hard work even though they have their entire college education paid for. The NCAA disagrees, stating that student athletes are not “employees” under federal law. For this paper I plan to study this issue by looking at the controversy from the players’ coaches, media, and fan’s perspectives.
Specific question(s) that will guide my research: Should the NCAA change its rules to pay college athletes for the sport they play?
(How you might reply to one of your peers' posts):
DeleteStudent #2: This is a really interesting topic. Would you consider focusing on one particular sport such as football or men's basketball (Division I) for your paper? It might be more effective to narrow it down to either one of those sports at the Division I level since these college athletes typically receive full ride scholarships.
Here's a link that looks like it may help: http://www.npr.org/2014/04/03/298763594/should-the-ncaa-change-its-rules-to-pay-for-play
Topic: ADHD Medication with children
ReplyDeleteControversy: ADHD medication can causes a lot of side effects that aren't healthy or cause more problems. It is also found that it could causes Anxiety and Depression and other mental health issues have been caused by the medication. Studies also have found that it could delay brain development later on in life. For this paper I plan to research this issue; Is Medication really worth it for children to take? Is there other ways to deal with ADHD in a child instead of taking medication?
Specific question: What are other options instead of ADHD medication? What kind of brain development does it cause?
This is an interesting topic, If you want to narrow the argument down even more, however, perhaps you could research the effects of one specific drug that is used? It may be easier to focus on one specific drug than many, or generalizing the drugs.
DeleteSuggested article:
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2015/11/25/research-raises-questions-over-adhd-drug-effects.html
Megan, this is such an interesting topic. I have heard many things about how some side affects /of these medications leads to other mental illnesses.
DeleteArticle:
http://psychcentral.com/lib/problems-related-to-adhd
Your Topic: Abortion
ReplyDeleteControversial: This is so controversy because religion plays a big part in why abortion is so frowned upon. People also having a hard time determining when a baby can be terminated because its hard to understand when the fetus can feel
Questions: When should people be able to have an abortion? Should there be a qualification? Who should have it?
this is interesting. isn't there also a problem with it being a womens body and her ability to do with it what she wishes.
Deletehttp://ic.galegroup.com/ic/ovic/ViewpointsDetailsPage/ViewpointsDetailsWindow?failOverType=&query=&prodId=OVIC&windowstate=normal&contentModules=&display-query=&mode=view&displayGroupName=Viewpoints&dviSelectedPage=&limiter=&u=nysl_ca_nisk&currPage=&source=&disableHighlighting=true&displayGroups=&sortBy=&zid=&search_within_results=&p=OVIC&action=e&catId=&activityType=&scanId=&documentId=GALE%7CEJ3010922207
I think this is a very good topic choice! I think choosing woman's rights in the argument of abortion is a very interesting point of view to make an the argument from. This article could help towards your claim.
Deletehttp://ic.galegroup.com/ic/ovic/ViewpointsDetailsPage/ViewpointsDetailsWindow?failOverType=&query=&prodId=OVIC&windowstate=normal&contentModules=&display-query=&mode=view&displayGroupName=Viewpoints&dviSelectedPage=&limiter=&u=nysl_ca_nisk&currPage=&source=&disableHighlighting=true&displayGroups=&sortBy=&zid=&search_within_results=&p=OVIC&action=e&catId=&activityType=&scanId=&documentId=GALE%7CEJ3010922210
Your Topic: Creationism being taught in public schools in America
ReplyDeleteControversy: This is a problem that has been coming up frequently in schools, primarily in the south. Many people in the communities want creationism to be taught alongside evolution in the science classroom. Scientists rally back to defend the theory of evolution and to keep the separation of church and state persistent.
Specific question(s) that will guide your research: Are there merits to the science of Creationism? Why cater to christianity alone? If creationism is taught in public schools, wouldn't all other religion's creation sciences also be required to be taught?
Jessica Piszczek
topic: Gay marriage
ReplyDeleteControversy: Gay marriage is opposed by people who believe marriage should be exclusively between men and women. While others deem it constitutional.
Specific questions: Does same sex marriage effect freedom of religious liberty? Does same sex marriage strengthen the institution of marriage?
potential claim: Same sex marriage doesn't infringe of religious liberties?
Topic: Euthanasia
ReplyDeleteControversy: There is debate about whether or not people should have control over when they can die. Euthanasia, similar to assisted suicide, is the purposeful ending of a persons life suffering from an incurable condition. The practice is legal only in Belgium, the Netherlands, and the state of Oregon. There is much debate about the legality of purposefully ending a patience's life and whether it is good medical practice.
Specific Question: Should passive Euthanasia be legal for terminally ill patients?
I've heard of this before. I think it is a really interesting topic to be writing about. Maybe reading someone's personal story and adding it into your paper may persuade the reader to be for the idea of Euthanasia. http://www.people.com/article/Brittany-Maynard-death-with-dignity-compassion-choices
DeleteI think this is a really interesting topic. Maybe try exploring both euthanasia and suicide, and how some people against the practice don't see a difference between the two.
DeleteHere's a link on the topic: http://go.galegroup.com/ps/retrieve.do?sort=DA-SORT&docType=Brief+article&tabID=T004&prodId=GPS&searchId=R1&resultListType=RESULT_LIST&searchType=AdvancedSearchForm&contentSegment=¤tPosition=1&searchResultsType=SingleTab&inPS=true&userGroupName=nysl_ca_nisk&docId=GALE%7CA437345524&contentSet=GALE%7CA437345524
Hey this is a really cool idea and controversy. Here is a link: http://ic.galegroup.com/ic/ovic/ViewpointsDetailsPage/ViewpointsDetailsWindow?failOverType=&query=&prodId=OVIC&windowstate=normal&contentModules=&display-query=&mode=view&displayGroupName=Viewpoints&limiter=&u=nysl_ca_nisk&currPage=&disableHighlighting=false&displayGroups=&sortBy=&source=&search_within_results=&p=OVIC&action=e&catId=&activityType=&scanId=&documentId=GALE%7CEJ3010375221
DeleteTopic: Digital technology ruining childhood
ReplyDeleteControversy: Technology is taking over children's lives. Children know how to turn on electronics before they can walk, write, or talk.
Questions: How is this effecting their development? Communication skills?
Claire,
DeleteThis is such a hot topic right now, so you will find a lot of information out there! Can I suggest narrowing this down a bit? Here's a specific question of what you could focus on: Is texting and cell phone use causing young people to be less focused? Or is it the opposite? Is it causing young people to handle multi-tasking more efficiently? If you do something like this, it will help you narrow your topic and therefore construct a more focused argument.
You could also go down a different path and look at social media and if it has positive/negative effects on teenagers.
Check out this link: http://www.pbs.org/thisemotionallife/blogs/teens-sleeping-cell-phones-clear-and-present-danger
Topic: Abortion (In cases of rape)
ReplyDeleteControversy: There is great controversy over aborting pregnancies in general, but some believe that there should be different moral/ethical standards for cases of rape. While it is commonly agreed upon that rape is a terrible and heinous crime, some do not believe that you should be able to abort a child conceived this way. Some say that aborting a child for it's father's crime is something the Nazis would have done. Others feel that a woman should not have to raise a child who would remind her of the violation she felt.
Questions: Should the government have the right to regulate abortions? Should their be a separate clause for circumstances of rape.
This topic has a lot of potential for research, especially given the recent political debate regarding abortion. Have you looked into current political figure's positions on abortion in cases of rape? It may help your paper to have direct quotes from doctors or political figures in your paper as they are the ones that get to make legal policy in regards to abortion.
DeleteFor example, here is Ben Carson's (politician and doctor!!) recent statement on abortion:
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2015/10/25/ben-carson-abortion-rape-incest-roe-wade/74585040/
This topic is very interesting. You might want to include some religious reasons as to why one may be for or against abortion.
Deletehttp://ic.galegroup.com/ic/ovic/ViewpointsDetailsPage/ViewpointsDetailsWindow?failOverType=&query=&prodId=OVIC&windowstate=normal&contentModules=&display-query=&mode=view&displayGroupName=Viewpoints&limiter=&u=nysl_ca_nisk&currPage=&disableHighlighting=false&displayGroups=&sortBy=&source=&search_within_results=&p=OVIC&action=e&catId=&activityType=&scanId=&documentId=GALE%7CEJ3010034235
Topic: Syrian refugees coming into other countries
ReplyDeleteControversy:
Currently there is an argument going around about how syrian refugees are or aren’t allowed to flee their country to seek safety. By them doing this it causes tension between the host countries and the terrorists that cause these people to flee their home country. These countries will continue to be attacked until they adopt their religion and join isis.
Specific question: If they dont leave where do they go for help?
http://syrianrefugees.eu/
DeleteD.J.,
DeleteSuch an important topic. This is such a big issue, so I would recommend focusing on a particular country such as the U.S. or a European country. Think about a debatable question--something that is controversial that people will disagree with.
Andrew Evans
ReplyDeleteTopic: Syrian Refugee
Controversy: People wonder whether we should or should not allow Syrian refugees into the country. The issue of protecting ours but helping those in need comes up. People are afraid members of ISIS could disguise themselves as refugees.
Question: Should we let Syrian Refugees into America?
Andy this is a great topic idea:)! Do you know some of the processes people have to go through in order to be allowed into the country? How can they tell who is a part of ISIS and who is not? Would you be specifically be looking at the united states?
Deletehttp://ic.galegroup.com/ic/ovic/ViewpointsDetailsPage/ViewpointsDetailsWindow?failOverType=&query=&prodId=OVIC&windowstate=normal&contentModules=&display-query=&mode=view&displayGroupName=Viewpoints&limiter=&u=nysl_ca_nisk&currPage=&disableHighlighting=false&displayGroups=&sortBy=&source=&search_within_results=&p=OVIC&action=e&catId=&activityType=&scanId=&documentId=GALE%7CEJ3010923223
Topic: Gun Control
ReplyDeleteControversy: People have arguments over the meaning of the second amendment and if its necessary for people to own guns and how many guns they should be able to own and what types of guns should be allowed.
Specific Question: Would extensive background checks help keep guns out of the hands of criminals? What are some ways the government is trying to do to prevent gun violence?
Nice topic man! Very interesting and you should have a lot to write about. I like it because you will need to formulate a concrete opinion on a controversial topic. Why do people think guns should be legal or illegal? What impact could either decision potentially have?
DeleteHere's a link that might help you out:http://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2015/06/mass-shootings-are-preventable/396644/
Your topic is quite intriguing. Perhaps you can focus on governments actions on gun control nationally or more specifically in NY with the Safe Act and its impact on gun control. here is a link that might just help you out :) http://www.timesunion.com/tuplus-local/article/Fred-LeBrun-U-S-Supreme-Court-to-decide-SAFE-Act-6588825.php
DeleteTopic: Child Beauty Pageants
ReplyDeleteControversy: It's been a large debate on whether Child Beauty Pageants should be band. People argue that while some contestants of the past and present claim it increased their self esteem, many believe that beauty pageants harm children, both mentally, emotionally and physically. It can cause eating disorders, spoiled behavior and breaks down the child's self esteem. At least that is what many Psychologists argue. Kids who are usually involved in Child Beauty Pageants have no say.
What do grown up Child Beauty Contestants say on the matter? Is Toddlers and Tiara's a realistic depiction of the pageants?
Specific Question: Do Child Beauty Pageants cause more harm than good?
This is a really interesting topic and I never thought about how beauty might effect a child's self esteem. This link is by a psychologist who did a study on adults how were taught to value their looks at a young age. She also talks about dancers and how they have to adhere to certain body standards. I think also looking at performers and how their bodies have to be held to a certain standard might add to your paper as well. https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/food-thought/201108/child-beauty-pageants-what-are-we-teaching-our-girls
DeleteAllegra,
DeleteSuch an interesting topic!
Topic: Gun Control
ReplyDeleteControversy: Many people in the united states believe that guns should be restricted more then usual. Over 47% of the properties in the united states have one or more firearms on the premises. People think that if to many guns are available then many people, as a result, will be severely injured or killed.
Should guns be more restricted?
Are we safer with guns or without guns?
Deven,
DeleteImportant topic. Try and focus on a particular state, such as New York (Should gun laws be more restricted in NY state?). When you look at a specific state, you can analyze stats and facts from that state.
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ReplyDeletetopic: Recreational Marijuana
ReplyDeleteControversy: The legalization of Recreational marijuana is viewed by some people as a terrible idea. Others think that recreational marijuana is a great idea.
Specific questions: Will the legalization of recreational marijuana lead to peace and love around the United States.
Does marijuana lead to lower IQ's?
Potential Claim: Recreational marijuana is a great idea.
here's a dope link
Deletehttp://www.governing.com/gov-data/state-marijuana-laws-map-medical-recreational.html
Reid,
DeleteImportant topic to discuss. Narrow your focus--if you want to examine recreational marijuana, then look at one of those states and look at its effects on education, the economy, etc.
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ReplyDeleteDeath Penalty:
ReplyDeleteThe death penalty has been a very controversial topic over the past couple decades. Will the death penalty ever be abolished and is it more harmful than helpful?
What are the guidelines to receiving the death penalty?
What is the alternative to the death penalty?
Shouldn’t murderers receive the death penalty?
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteThe death penalty is a very controversial topic in the United states. In my opinion the death penalty should be legal. Certain crimes against children, and particularly heinous crimes should have a death penalty option. For more information regarding issues surrounding the death penalty refer to http://www.deathpenaltyinfo.org
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteSAT-
ReplyDeleteare they really that important?
do they prove students intelligence?
are they a waste of time and money?
do students take them seriously?
This is interesting, considering that most of us have taken the SAT at least once, some even multiple times. What about the new SAT? I know that the current SAT isn't considered to be a good test of how prepared a student is for college, but is the new test any better? And for those of us who have taken it multiple times, is it really worth spending the money on a new test to only increase by a few dozen points in one section?
DeleteNuclear Weapons
ReplyDeleteShould the United States dismantle all of the nuclear weapons in the arsenal?
Controversy- Since the US signed a new START (stragegiv arms limitation treaty) with Russia, the size of our nuclear arsenal has been decreasing rapidly. However with eight other nuclear powers continuing to increase their number of nuclear weapons, congress has been concernd that the US could be seen as a potential target to nations such as North Korea and even to nuclear terrorism, seeing that it is becoming more and more of a threat.