Do Now 12/5 or 12/6

Excerpt from Plugged In, but Tuned Out: The Evil

Influence of Ear Buds

Darrell Thomas

People refuse to recognize the danger of ear buds because they simply love their ear buds too much to give them up. Ear buds are probably doing serious physical damage to their inner eardrums or even the brain itself, but apparently that doesn’t bother anyone. I shudder to think of what the future will be like if we continue on the path of ear bud slavery we’re traveling. Next time you’re tempted to plug in and tune out, remember my warning. Either we learn to live without ear buds, or we’re going to turn into a nation of

complete zombies. Is that where you want to live?

The author concludes that because of the dangers ear buds present, they should be tossed into the trash or, at least, never used. What would be a more moderate conclusion for him to make?

• that all ear buds be destroyed immediately

• that only live music be legal, and all other forms outlawed

• that all music be banned from being played at any large, social event

• that people learn to use their ear buds safely, without endangering themselves or others

1. Excerpt from Lose Weight Fast and Easy

Tracy Wilson

Are you trying to lose weight, but have little will power? Our new super diet pill is just what you’ve been waiting for. Researchers have declared this fast-acting, appetite suppressant as a modern medical miracle for Americans who struggle with weight loss.

The fat burning action of our new diet pill enables even those who need to shed lots of weight to drop pounds without strenuous exercise or ridiculous food restrictions. Weight loss begins to occur so quickly that even skeptics are amazed!

Which statement best describes the argument presented in the advertisement?

• Two sides of an issue are presented.

• Celebrity endorsements are used for promotion.

• No evidence is presented to support the argument.

• Credible research is presented to support the ad’s claims.

1. There are few people in the world that I trust more than my brother. There are many reasons why I feel this way. ______, I know he'll help me out no matter how much trouble I get in. ______, there are some things from which he could never rescue me single-handedly, but I know he'd try just the same. _____ he is a man of impeccable character, who always keeps his word.

Choose the most appropriate succession of transition words/phrases for the three blanks in the above paragraph.

• First of all; Doubtfully; Also,

• First of all; Then, too; Because

• First of all; Of course; Indeed,

• First of all; Second of all; Thirdly