I'm working on a Toulmin argument for my English class and need some inspiration. Can anyone recommend some innovative and thought-provoking topics related to high school experiences or the college admissions process?
There are numerous intriguing topics you can explore for your Toulmin argument that relate to high school experiences or the college admissions process. Here are a few to consider:
1. Standardized testing: How much should standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, etc.) weigh in the college admissions process? You could argue for or against their importance, focusing on the validity of test scores as predictors of academic success or their potential biases against certain demographics.
2. The benefits of early college programs: Explore the validity of early college/dual enrollment programs for high school students to gain college credit. Your argument might address whether these programs better prepare students for college-level work or create unnecessary academic stress.
3. Single-gender education: Examine the advantages and disadvantages of single-gender schools and classrooms in today's educational landscape. You might argue whether these settings improve learning outcomes for students or limit their exposure to diverse perspectives and social situations.
4. The impact of extracurricular activities: Assess the importance of extracurricular involvement during high school for college admissions and personal development. This argument could debate whether colleges should place greater emphasis on extracurricular achievements, or whether such activities tend to detract from students' academic focus.
5. The fairness of legacy admissions: Consider the role of legacy admissions in college admissions decisions. You could argue whether this practice promotes continued engagement with the university and supports its long-term financial health or if it unfairly advantages a specific group of applicants, limiting opportunities for others.
6. College tuition and financial aid: Examining the rising costs of tuition, debate whether colleges should move toward need-blind admissions and increase financial aid accessibility, or whether this practice would create financial instability for institutions.
By selecting one of these topics or developing one similarly related to high school experiences or the college admissions process, you can create a thought-provoking Toulmin argument that engages your audience and demonstrates your critical thinking abilities.
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