"School Start Times and Sleep" (Argument) QUIZ

Look at these pieces of evidence. Which ones are statistics, which ones are expert opinions, and which ones are real-life examples?

• “75% of students report feeling tired in morning classes”

• “Sleep expert Dr. Williams supports the change”

• “Dr. Johnson recommends later start times based on brain development research”

• “My sister’s grades improved when she got more sleep”

• “Teen car accidents decreased 70% after schedule change”

Answer explanation

The statement "75% of students report feeling tired in morning classes" is a statistic, providing numerical data about students' feelings. The other options include expert opinions and real-life examples.

Match each word to its correct meaning: Substantiate (v), Counterargument (n), Credible (adj), Empirical (adj), Compelling (adj)

• based on observation or experience

• convincing; forceful

• worthy of belief or confidence

• an argument opposed to another argument

• to support with proof or evidence

Answer explanation

The correct match for 'Empirical (adj)' is 'based on observation or experience', as it refers to knowledge gained through direct observation or experimentation.

Which of the following best defines the term 'Empirical' as used in academic writing?

• Opposed to logical reasoning

• Supported by personal beliefs

• Based on observation or experience

• Related to emotional appeal

Answer explanation

The term 'Empirical' refers to knowledge gained through observation or experience, making 'Based on observation or experience' the correct choice. It contrasts with theories based solely on logic or personal beliefs.

Identify the statement that represents a counterargument.

• “My friend feels more alert after sleeping in.”

• “Studies show students perform better with more sleep.”

• “Some researchers argue that early school start times benefit working parents.”

• “Experts recommend at least 8 hours of sleep for teenagers.”

Answer explanation

The correct choice, 'Some researchers argue that early school start times benefit working parents,' presents a counterargument by suggesting a benefit to early start times, opposing the idea that more sleep is always better.

Which option is an example of a credible source?

• A random blog post with no author

• A rumor shared by classmates

• A peer-reviewed scientific journal article

• A social media comment

Answer explanation

A peer-reviewed scientific journal article is a credible source because it undergoes rigorous evaluation by experts in the field, ensuring the information is reliable and accurate, unlike the other options.

Which of the following is an example of an expert opinion?

• “My neighbor feels more energetic after exercising in the morning.”

• “Test scores increased by 10% after the new schedule was implemented.”

• “A recent survey found that 60% of teens prefer later school start times.”

• “Nutritionist Dr. Lee states that breakfast improves concentration.”

Answer explanation

The correct choice is the statement by Nutritionist Dr. Lee, as it reflects an expert opinion on the benefits of breakfast for concentration, unlike the other options which are based on personal feelings or survey results.

What does it mean if a source is 'credible'?

• It is entertaining to read

• It is widely shared on social media

• It is trustworthy and reliable

• It is written in a casual tone

Answer explanation

A credible source is one that is trustworthy and reliable, meaning it provides accurate information that can be depended upon. This distinguishes it from sources that may be entertaining or popular but lack reliability.

Which statement best represents a real-life example?

• “After my cousin started going to bed earlier, she felt less stressed.”

• “Dr. Smith recommends more sleep for teenagers.”

• “Experts agree that sleep is important for health.”

• “A study found that students who sleep more get better grades.”

Answer explanation

The correct choice illustrates a personal experience, showing a direct cause-and-effect relationship between going to bed earlier and feeling less stressed, making it a relatable real-life example.

Which of the following is the best way to verify if a source is credible?

• Read the comments section

• Count the number of advertisements on the page

• See if the website looks modern

• Check if the author is an expert in the field

Answer explanation

Checking if the author is an expert in the field is crucial for verifying credibility. Expertise indicates knowledge and reliability, unlike comments, ads, or website design, which do not guarantee accurate information.

What type of evidence is the following statement: “According to a 2022 report, students who eat breakfast score 15% higher on tests”?

• Counterargument

• Real-life example

• Statistic

• Expert opinion

Answer explanation

The statement presents a measurable outcome, indicating that students who eat breakfast score 15% higher on tests. This numerical data qualifies as a statistic, making 'Statistic' the correct answer.