Unit+-+Education

= To what extent do our schools serve the goals of a true education? =

"I Know Why the Caged Bird Cannot Read: How American High School Students Learn to Loathe Literature" by Francine Prose

 * Click on the Discussion tab above.
 * Click on "I Know Why the Caged Bird Cannot Read."
 * Read the prompts; select one.
 * Reply in the box below the prompt. Remember to start your prompt by identifying your prompt number.

**Education Writing (based on ideas from //The Language of Composition//)**
You've now had the opportunity to explore this topic via a number of readings and the Frontline video. Now, you will explore this topic by synthesizing your ideas and those of the readings.
 * 1) Many see standardized testing as the answer to improving public education in the United States. Thus, students face district- and state-mandated tests as well as national exams. What do you think? Write an essay discussing whether standardized testing is an effective way to bring about improved instruction and performance. Then, research the topic, and revise your essay by broadening its scope beyond your own experience.
 * 2) Many people believe that children should be required to attend at least one year of school prior to kindergarten. Write an essay explaining why tax dollars should or should not be used to pay for mandatory, government-funded preschool. Conduct research to support your opinion.
 * 3) According to Francine Prose, "Education, after all, is a process intended to produce a product." Examine your school or another part of an educational system (your district, a Montessori class, a religion-affiliated school). Describe specific parts of the educational process, and the "product" they strive to produce. Think of this a cause and effect essay, with the purpose as the cause and the product as the effect.
 * 4) According to numerous reports, including //Reading at Risk//, reading is simply not the pastime of choice for many--especially not young people. One way to stimulate interest in books is through Community Reads programs, where a group--for example, an entire city or town--agrees to read and discuss a particular book (at library, churches, PTA meetings, and classrooms). If you have participated in one of these Community Reads projects, write an essay evaluating your experience, paying particular attention to whether or not you became a more enthusiastic reader, and research what has happened in other settings. If you have not participated in one of these projects, write an essay explaining why you believe it would or would not be a worthwhile experience for your community.
 * 5) Many districts and school systems around the country are revisiting the idea of class rank. Create an essay that researches and evaluates the different directions and policies that are replacing or modifying the idea of class rank. Be sure to consider the reactions from students, college and universities, communities, and instructors.
 * 6) **Topic of Your Choice** - Create a prompt that addresses an interest you have that is not covered in one of the choice above. On your pre-writing handout, create the prompt and have it approved.