Let’s Write an Outline! ◦ You need your sample outline at the back of your Argumentative Writing packet

◦ You need a blank sheet of lined paper

◦ You need “Incentives for Advanced Work Let Pupils and Teachers Cash In” from The New York Times

Question to Answer: Should schools offer cash bonuses

for good test scores?

What I do when I read…◦Underline evidence

◦Write the main point of paragraphs in the margin

◦ Think about my point of view – MARK anything that will help◦ Look for evidence that supports my idea◦ Look for reasoning in the article I can use

I WRITE A LOT ON ARTICLES. It makes going back to look for information SO MUCH EASIER. Plus, I forget what I am thinking so I have to make a note to remember.

Central Question: Should schools offer cash bonuses for good test scores?

◦ Thesis (D of your Introductory Section)

◦Main reasons (I, II)

◦ Evidence (from the article that supports your reasons) (Falls under I, II)

◦ Reasoning (from your brain – why does this evidence prove your point?) (Falls under I, II)

◦ Introduction (go back and figure this out! Remember your funnel!) (I – A, B,C)

◦ Conclusion (Remember reverse funnel!) (V – A, B, C)

Introduction: One thing students and teachers can agree on is how important it is to stay inspired. Inspiration leads to success in school and in life.

Thesis: Schools should offer cash bonuses for high test scores. Providing reward will increase motivation for both students and teachers.

I. Students will be encouraged to challenge themselves to succeed if they are offered a cash bonus for their high test scores.

A. Sam Dillon in his article “Incentive for Advanced Work Let Pupils and Teachers Cash In” reports that in an AP statistics course where the class bonuses have been offered, that 70% of students taking the AP course scored high enough to “qualify for college credit.” (Dillon)

1. The 20% increase in student scores shows an increase in the students’ motivation to succeed because previously only 50% of students taking the course passed. (Dillon)

2. Students are not necessarily more intelligent in the most recent class, but rather more motivated.

B. In fact, Mr. Nystrom’s statistics class has increased in enrollment. (Dillon)

1. More students in a class usually means that it is more likely that a higher percentage will not achieve a passing score.

2. However, at South High Community School, this is not the case. Even with the increase in enrollment, students are passing at a higher rate.

3. The positive increase in both students’ interest in the advanced course and the increase in the passing test scores proves that students are more motivated than in previous years.

4. This can be attributed to the cash bonuses.

C. (Transition) Offering money for high test scores does not only inspire students, but teachers as well.

II. Teachers receiving bonuses for the high scores will be motivated to work more diligently to insure their students’ success.