Writing Class Persuasive Writing Assignment: Standardized Testing in America
Due Monday, January 13, 2014
http://standardizedtests.procon.org/?print=true
Directions: After reading about the pro’s and con’s regarding standardized testing in America,
take a position about whether or not you think that standardized testing is improving education
in America, or about a related issue to standardized testing, such as whether or not
standardized testing should be used to promote or hold students back from graduating to the
next grade level. (Use the graphic organizer provided to help you organize your thoughts.
Your first page should be an attractive-looking title page which includes the following:
1) Your first and last name
2) The date with the month spelled out (example: January 13, 2014)
3) Writing Class
4) Murray Language Academy
5) Picture related to the topic (optional, but preferred)
Use 12-point font with Times New Roman, Calibri, or Ariel style of writing.
Indent all paragraphs. Use transitions. Do not skip lines between paragraphs.
Use 1-inch margins on all sides of the paper. (The computer should already be set this way. Do
not change the margins.)
Double-space the lines in your essay, not on the title page.
Write a minimum of six paragraphs in this order:

introduction paragraph
o attention getter/hook (first sentence of essay)
o background information about the topic
o statement of the three main points you will make in the essay
o your thesis statement

three body paragraphs to support your thesis statement
o Each paragraph should be devoted solely to one of the three main points you are
making.
o Adequately support your paragraph with a topic sentence and at least 4
supporting details.
o You should have no fewer than five sentences per paragraph.

one counter-point paragraph acknowledging the opposing point of view and then
countering with reasons why your own point of view is superior
o You may begin with something like, “People who disagree with me might say…”
and end with, “However, I disagree because…”

conclusion paragraph
o Recap the three main points that you made in the body paragraphs of the essay.
o Restate the thesis statement in your own words differently than you did in your
introduction paragraph.
o Give a call to action by telling your reader what to think or do or both as a result
of reading your essay.