Intro to Writing Arguments

Why does the writer use the Barbie doll comparison in the second paragraph?

• She knows that every little girl always wanted to look like her Barbie doll.

• It is a good example that supports her idea about how unrealistic many photos are.

Answer explanation

The writer uses the Barbie doll comparison to illustrate how unrealistic many photos are, highlighting the disparity between idealized images and reality, which supports her main argument.

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CCSS.RI.7.4

Statistics are facts expressed in numbers. What do the statistics in paragraph 3 tell you?

• The average weight of teenagers is going down.

• The average weight of teenagers hasn’t changed.

• The average weight of teenagers is going up.

Answer explanation

The statistics in paragraph 3 indicate an increase in the average weight of teenagers, as they show a trend of rising numbers over time. Therefore, the correct choice is that the average weight of teenagers is going up.

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CCSS.RI.7.2

In the sentence below, from paragraph 4, is the opinion of “some people” the same or different from the writer’s own opinion? Some people might argue that celebrity and fashion photos were never meant to be realistic.

• the same

• Different

Answer explanation

The opinion of 'some people' suggests that celebrity and fashion photos are not meant to be realistic, which contrasts with the writer's likely belief that these images should reflect reality. Therefore, the opinions are different.

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CCSS.RI.7.6

In paragraph 5, what reason does the writer give for wanting magazines and websites to stop fixing photos of celebrities and models?

• Seeing so many perfect photos is bad for teenagers’ health.

• The photos have gotten too beautiful and too perfect.

• Teenagers care more than adults do about beauty and perfection.

Answer explanation

The writer argues that seeing so many perfect photos negatively impacts teenagers' health, suggesting that the unrealistic standards set by these images can lead to harmful effects on their self-esteem and body image.

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CCSS.RI.7.6

CCSS.RI.7.1

CCSS.RI.7.2

In paragraph 6, the writer describes a connection between...

• media images and eating disorders.

• Dr. Lana Minto and eating disorders.

• teenagers and eating disorders.

Answer explanation

In paragraph 6, the writer specifically links media images to the development of eating disorders, highlighting how these images can influence individuals' perceptions of body image and contribute to unhealthy behaviors.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.1

CCSS.W.7.9A

Why does the writer quote Dr. Lana Minto in paragraph 6?

• Minto has high self-esteem.

• Minto is an expert on the topic of eating disorders.

• Minto is a doctor who lectures all over the country.

Answer explanation

The writer quotes Dr. Lana Minto because she is an expert on eating disorders, lending credibility to the discussion and providing informed insights on the topic.

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CCSS.RI.7.1

CCSS.RL.7.1

Why does the writer include the story about Elena in the conclusion?

• She wants people to understand why Elena feels fat.

• It helps prove her point that real people are hurt by the lies in the photos.

• She thinks that Elena should have known that photos are often manipulated.

Answer explanation

The story about Elena illustrates the emotional impact of manipulated photos, reinforcing the writer's argument that these images can harm real people by distorting their self-image and causing feelings of inadequacy.

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CCSS.RI.7.6

What does the writer mean when she says, “It’s time for them to start telling the truth" in the conclusion?

• Photos should start talking.

• Celebrities should stop telling lies about how thin and beautiful they are.

• Photos should not be fixed to make people look better than they do in real life.

Answer explanation

The writer's statement emphasizes the need for authenticity in images, suggesting that photos should reflect reality without enhancements that create unrealistic standards of beauty.

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CCSS.RI.7.6

Which of the following demonstrates a key element of a strong argument?

• Making a claim but failing to provide evidence.

• Using informal language and a casual tone to connect with the audience.

• Supporting a claim with logical reasons and relevant evidence.

• Ignoring opposing viewpoints to strengthen the writer's position.

Answer explanation

Supporting a claim with logical reasons and relevant evidence is essential for a strong argument, as it provides the necessary foundation for the claim, making it credible and persuasive.

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CCSS.W.7.1B

Which of the following is an example of a formal argument?

• Two friends debating which pizza place is the best.

• A proposal to install a traffic light at a busy intersection with evidence of past accidents.

• A conversation about who should sing lead vocals in a band.

• A disagreement over what to watch on TV.

Answer explanation

A proposal to install a traffic light with evidence of past accidents is a formal argument as it presents a clear claim supported by data, unlike the other options which are informal discussions without structured reasoning.

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CCSS.W.7.1B