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WorksheetsCelebrities As Heroes: Argument & Claim
Total questions: 10
Worksheet time: 2hrs 10mins
Read this section from “Counterpoint: Celebrities Can Be Cultural Heroes” to evaluate the author’s argument and answer the follow-up questions.
The actor Paul Newman was called one of the best actors of his time, but he also founded a food company that donates all of its profits to charity. Other celebrities like Derek Jeter have attained greatness in their chosen fields, and are also very active in charitable work. Jeter created an organization which helps kids turn away from drugs and alcohol. As a result, celebrities like Derek Jeter have a positive effect on people, especially their young fans, who are inspired to live healthier lives. Helping people is definitely something that heroes do.
Part A Based on this passage, which reason best supports the claim that there are “celebrities who are true heroes”?
Actors and sports stars lead the way in charitable works.
Someone who achieves fame is a hero.
Some celebrities achieve at the highest level in their field and also are active in other areas of public service.
Celebrities must achieve greatness in their chosen fields before they can become public figures for social change.
Select evidence from the passage that best supports the reason: Some celebrities achieve at the highest level in their field and also are active in other areas of public service.
“The actor Paul Newman was...one of the best actors...but he also founded a food company that donates...to charity.”
“...young fans...are inspired to live healthier lives.”
“Other celebrities like Derek Jeter have attained greatness in their chosen fields”
“Paul Newman was called one of the best actors of his time.”
Which phrase from the article supports the claim that “Celebrities Should Not Be Idolized as Heroes”?
“Convincing young people that celebrities do not make good role models or heroes will be difficult if there are no real heroes to replace the celebrities.”
“Dr. Stuart Fischoff of the American Psychological Association says it’s normal for people to idolize those who have fame and fortune.”
“What makes a hero? Heroes have been defined as people who have demonstrated admirable qualities such as strength, honesty, courage, and perseverance, sometimes at great risk to themselves.”
“There are also many everyday men and women who have acted heroically by facing danger to help people. Even though they have flaws as all humans do, their courage can inspire others.”
What is the author's claim (or argument) in the "Point" section about what constitutes a hero?
Heroes are people who are celebrities.
Heroes are people who wear capes and solve crimes.
Heroes are people who have earned a degree and got a full time job.
Heroes are people who have accomplished something that helped others in some way.
How does the author support this claim?
Heroes are people who have accomplished something that helped others in some way.
The author discusses how social media always promotes heroes in movies and tv shows.
The author discusses how Black Lightning is a hero.
The author discusses how Dr. Abby Aronowitz became a hero for analyzing social media.
The author discusses how Rosa Parks became a hero for civil rights "by refusing to give up her seat on a bus."
The "Counterpoint" author states that celebrities who have made outstanding contributions can inspire others. Select the strongest evidence from the "Counterpoint" section.
A quotation from Dr. Eric Hollander that "celebrities can have a positive influence on our lives, with positive messages" provides evidence that celebrities can play such a heroic role. (Paragraph 16)
A quotation from Dr. Stuart Fischoff that “it’s normal for people to idolize those who have fame and fortune” provides evidence that celebritism is normal. (Paragraph 9)
A quotation stating that “We all need heroes” provides evidence that the need for heroes is real. (Paragraph 20)
A quotation stating that “fans line up to get autographs from their favorite players” provides evidence that celebrities are heroes. (Paragraph 12)
In paragraph 16, the counterargument states that fans “may idolize a soccer player’s genuine ability to play well and score points in nearly every game. This admiration may lead young fans to work harder when they play soccer because they want to be like their hero.”
Why is the evidence the author offers about a soccer player is NOT very effective?
Because it should have talk about football instead.
Because it provides no real-life example.
Because idolatry is wrong.
Because I said so.
Which is the author's purpose in writing for the Point section of the article?
To persuade readers that most celebrities aren't heroes
To persuade readers that celebrities often are heroes
To persuade readers that celebrities are a figment of the imagination.
Which is the author's purpose in writing for the Counterpart section of the article?
To persuade readers that most celebrities aren't heroes
To persuade readers that celebrities often are heroes
To persuade readers that celebrities are a figment of the imagination.
Which section of the article has this purpose?
To persuade readers to choose heroes wisely
Point
Counterpoint
Both
