How should we change the court system to make it equitable for everyone? The US criminal justice system, from the courts to policing, does not serve everyone equally. Politicians and activists believe in different ways to improve it. Many believe the problem starts in the courtroom. Mandatory minimum sentencing and high bail amounts have led to a growing prison population, especially for people of color. What is the best way to seekout reform? Your senator is considering introducing legislation to reform the court system.
Write an argumentative essay recommending what should be done to make the courtroom fair and equal for everyone. Use evidence from the sources to defend your claim, and be sure to acknowledge and address counterclaims to your position.
Students will engage argumentative writing given a pre-selected prompt by the teachers.
Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Teacher will provide the following instructions to students as they sit down to write:
Teacher will access core report to identify the appropriate intervention.
Students will follow the directions on their board and/or their handouts.
Ask teachers for help if they have trouble with any of the technical steps the teacher articulates on the board.
Begin writing.
Click ‘Signal Check’ periodically to get instantaneous feedback. Note: If students have not written enough they will not get any feedback. Be sure to complete at least one paragraph before asking for a signal check.
Click ‘Submit’ when they are done writing.
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