RBA Essays
Chocolate Milk Debate
Use the links below to research whether or not you believe chocolate milk should be served in schools. There are various articles and videos on the sites. Pay close attention to who created each site and what sources they referenced. Ask yourself, is this a credible source? What is the purpose of this article or video? Is it trying to persuade, convince, educate, or simply present the debate? Does the author have an agenda or motivation in how he frames the debate about chocolate milk? Does this article or video fairly present both side of the debate or does it advocate for one side? Try to thoroughly understand why some people are in favor of chocolate milk in schools while others oppose it. You will need to choose a strong stance on one side of the debate to present in your Research-Based Argument Essay.
Homework Debate
Use the links below to research whether schools should give homework. How much should they give? What kind of homework? Should they even give homework at all? What does the research say? What is going to be best for students?
Down With Homework! - Scholastic
Here's the real truth about homework - The Daily Telegraph
Homework: Harmful or Helpful? - Eduflow
Bottled Water Debate
Use the links below to research whether bottled water is a good idea or a bad idea. Is bottled water healthier than tap water? Is it good or bad for the environment?
Bottled water help Haitian relief work
Bottled water carries hidden cost to Earth
Green Energy Debate
Use the links below to research green energy. Is it good for the environment? Good for our country?
Competitive Sports in Schools Debate
Use the links below to research whether there should be competitive sports in school. Are they positive or negative for participants?
School Sports: The pros and cons by Raven J. Railey
Pushing too hard too young by Jacqueline Stenson
Michael Phelps discusses his experience balancing school and sports.
Native American Mascots Debate
Use the links below to research whether sports teams and schools should use Native Americans as their mascots.
Animals in Captivity / Zoos / Circus Debate
Use the links below to research whether animals should be keep in captivity for the entertainment of people.
Below are Argument and Advocacy Texts and Videos
Giant Panda Baby - National Geographic Kids
Orcas / Orca Shows:
Nature's Perfect Predators - Animal Planet
Orcas in Captivity - Infographic
Human/Shark/Whale Interactions:
Chart: The World's Deadliest Animals
Whale Protects Diver from Shark
Plastic Bags and Water Bottles:
Facts about Plastic - Infographic
The Truth about Plastic Bags - Infographic
Climbing Mount Everest/Extreme Sports: