Conflicting Viewpoints (RI.2.6)

Many people fail to recognize graffiti as a viable art form. Instead of being considered a meaningful expression, graffiti is seen as vandalism. This is an unfair label to give, since graffiti requires the same creativity and hard work as other forms of street art.

Which viewpoint opposes the underlined?

• Graffiti is vandalism.

• Graffiti is only found in cities.

• Graffiti is a criminal activity.

• Graffiti artists are all talented.

Which statement below might this author agree with?

• Graffiti offers something that other forms of street art can’t. Because of the lack of control or direction from outside influences, it conveys a raw, uncensored message.

• Taxing graffiti artists can help cities raise a lot of revenue.

• Graffiti artists should be limited to appropriate paintings.

• Graffiti doesn't help raise awareness for important causes.

Banksy, an anonymous graffiti artist based in England, comments on controversial social issues in his work, like violence and homelessness. He’s able to communicate his thoughts to the public without anyone’s approval. This is what makes graffiti an incomparably powerful kind of art.

What is the author's viewpoint on Banksy?

• He's overrated.

• He uses graffiti to portray secret messages.

• He uses graffiti to highlight important issues in society.

• He abuses graffiti and gives it a bad reputation.

Which 2 sentences are conflicting viewpoints?

Just like anything else that’s created by humans, graffiti can be used negatively. And even when it’s not the artist’s intention to cause a disruption, there will always be people who disapprove. Does that mean we should censor art? No, for imagination is what makes graffiti unique.

• Just like anything else that’s created by humans, graffiti can be used negatively.

• And even when it’s not the artist’s intention to cause a disruption, there will always be people who disapprove.

• Does that mean we should censor art?

• No, for imagination is what makes graffiti unique.

Why do you think the author wrote this text?

• To inspire people to create graffiti.

• To defend Banksy.

• To provide a different point of view about graffiti as an art form.

• To denounce graffiti as vandalism.