Ashna Patel
English 2, Sec. 4347
April 3, 2024
Argument Paragraph & Reading Response
Section 1:
D) Ethnic studies should be a required subject in U.S high schools.
Ethnic studies should be a mandatory subject in U.S. high schools as it promotes
understanding, empathy, and inclusivity among students. By adding ethnic studies to the
curriculum, students can explore different cultures, histories, and experiences that make up
American society. Not only does it foster a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity, but it also
helps combat stereotypes and prejudice that often stem from lack of exposure. Through ethnic
studies, students can learn about shaping moments in history, such as the Civil Rights Movement
or the struggles of Native Americans against European settlers. This knowledge allows students
to learn more about our complex society and the diversity within it.
Furthermore, ethnic studies allow marginalized voices to be heard and acknowledged
within an educational setting. By including historically marginalized and excluded voices
students can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the world around them. For instance,
learning about the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII or the struggles for
sovereignty by Indigenous people sheds light on the injustices faced by these communities. By
learning about these experiences of marginalized groups students are more likely to advocate for
social justice and equity within our society. Overall, incorporating ethnic studies as a high school
subject prepares students to be informed, empathetic, and socially responsible members of
society.
Section 2:
#1/Section 2: The phrase information extraction might be used as a euphemism for the word
torture because it carries a more neutral or even positive connotation compared to the harsh and
morally loaded term torture. Information extraction implies a bureaucratic process focused on
obtaining valuable intelligence, whereas torture conveys a sense of brutality, coercion, and
violation of human rights. By using euphemisms like information extraction, those defending
such practices may be able to soften the perception of their actions and justify them as necessary.
#2/Section 2: A counterargument is an argument that opposes the main argument presented in a
research paper. It acknowledges alternative viewpoints to the thesis or main claim. Including a
counterargument in a research paper is essential because it demonstrates a thorough
understanding of the topic and engages critical thinking. By addressing opposing arguments,
writers strengthen their argument by preemptively refuting any potential objects. Not only that
but, presenting different perspectives makes the paper more persuasive and adds credibility.
Additionally, integrating counterarguments can lead you to discover weaknesses in your ideas,
allowing you to consider multiple perspectives and foster a better understanding of the topic.
#3/Section 2: Mello, Michelle M., et al. "Obesity-the New Frontier of Public Health Law." The
New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 354, no. 24, 2006, pp. 2601-10,
doi:10.1056/NEJMhpr060227
Section 3:
In paragraphs 8 and 9 of the Chronicles of Ice, Gretel Ehrlich metaphorically describes
glaciers as a place where historical and climatological data is stored, emphasizing their role in
the Earth’s past. By stating “A glacier is an archivist and historian,” Ehrlich suggests that
glaciers hold valuable information about past climate fluctuations and environmental changes.
This metaphor underscores the idea that glaciers serve as custodians of vital records similar to
historical archives or libraries. He further elaborates on the significance of glaciers as archives
by asserting, “The retreat and disappearance of glaciers…means we’re burning libraries. By
equating melting glaciers to the destruction of libraries, she symbolizes the loss of crucial
information about the Earth’s past, as well as the consequences of environmental degradation.
This metaphor emphasizes the implications of glacier retreats and disappearance, highlighting
the urgent need to preserve these natural archives.
Ehrlich supports this metaphorical interpretation by describing glaciers recording “every
fluctuation of weather” and trapping various elements such as dust, pollen, and minerals, which
provide insight into past climates. This underscores the idea that glaciers serve as repositories of
historical and climatological data. Additionally, she mentions that glaciers contain oxygen
bubbles that provide samples of the ancient atmosphere that scientists can use to study the
changes in greenhouse gases and atmospheric temperatures over time (Ehrlich). Overall,
Ehrlich’s use of metaphors and supporting evidence emphasizes the significance of glaciers as
repositories of invaluable historical and climatological data.