What Do You Have to Say?

Match the terms to their correct definitions.

• argument

• facts, statistics, numerical data, quotations, specific examples, and expert opinions that support a claim

• evidence

• the writer’s or speaker’s position on a debatable issue or problem

• reason

• open for discussion or argument

• debatable

• a coherent series of reasons, statements, or facts intended to support or establish a point of view

• claim

• an explanation that states why others should accept a claim

Homework is necessary for reinforcing what students learn in the classroom.

• Agree

• Disagree

Excessive homework can lead to stress, burnout, and a lack of motivation in students.

• Agree

• Disagree

Students benefit more from classroom instruction than from independent homework assignments.

• Agree

• Disagree

Homework helps students develop important skills like self-discipline and time management.

• Agree

• Disagree

Assigning the same homework to all students is effective because it provides equal learning opportunities.

• Agree

• Disagree

Directions: Read the passage below and complete the reading task for each paragraph.

TERM: argument
• a coherent series of reasons, statements, or facts intended to support or establish a point of view

PASSAGE: Imagine coming home after a long day of school, only to face hours of homework that leave you too exhausted to spend time with your family, pursue hobbies, or simply relax. Does this really help you learn? Many argue that homework is not beneficial because it often overwhelms students, creating unnecessary stress and reducing their motivation to succeed. Instead of reinforcing classroom learning, excessive homework can lead to burnout and diminish time for important activities like family, rest, or personal interests.

Which of the following best states the primary argument being made by the writer?

• Homework is not beneficial because it overwhelms students and reduces time for important activities.

• Homework helps students reinforce classroom learning.

• Homework is necessary for academic success.

• Homework should be given in larger amounts to improve learning.

Which sentence best states the speaker’s claim in the passage about homework?

• Homework can place undue pressure on students to complete assignments independently, which can widen the gap for those who struggle without immediate support.

• Students who already understand the material may find homework repetitive and boring.

• Homework often hinders students' understanding and retention of the material.

• Students might feel frustrated without guidance when doing homework.

Underline the different sides of the topic being debated in this passage.

• The different sides are: 1) Homework is valuable for learning and builds skills. 2) Excessive homework causes unnecessary stress and is less effective.

• The different sides are: 1) Homework should be banned completely. 2) Homework should be given only on weekends.

• The different sides are: 1) Homework is only for high school students. 2) Homework is not needed in elementary school.

• The different sides are: 1) Homework is a form of punishment. 2) Homework is a reward for good behavior.

Underline the evidence in this passage that supports the speaker’s claim.

• High schoolers reported doing an average of 2.7 hours of homework per weeknight, according to a study by the Washington Post from 2018 to 2020 of over 50,000 individuals.

• The speaker believes that homework is important for learning.

• Many students participate in extracurricular activities after school.

• Some teachers assign less homework than others.