SO 204

SP 2002

A.Reich

  Essay Assignment

    Dumbing us Down is a collection of speeches and articles by John Gatto.  Gatto taught public school for 26 years, and was named teacher of the year both in his school district and in the state of New York.  A man who cares very much about the students he taught nonetheless felt he failed them, because of the very structure of public education.  The chapters in this book detail the ways he believes schools fail children, the reasons schools do this, and his suggestions for improvement.

  In an essay of 3-5 double-spaced typed pages, discuss the following:

  v     What are the ways John Gatto believes school is "dumbing us down?"

v    What does Gatto say are the reasons that schools continue to fail children?

v     What are some of his suggestions for how education in this country could be improved?

v     What in your own experience leads you to agree or disagree with Gatto? (Your experience might include tutoring, your own schooling, etc.)

This essay should have an introduction and a conclusion, and be well constructed.  Major pitfall to avoid:  Do not simply describe Gatto’s chapter on the lessons.  Read the whole book and do your own thinking about what he says.  You are encouraged to visit the writing center with a draft before submitting your final essay.  You will be graded on your ability to understand the Gatto book, your ability to answer the questions, the clarity of your thought and the effectiveness (including mechanics) of your writing.  The essay is worth 50 points and is due on March 28 by 4:30 in L-24.   Late penalties begin at the due date and time; two points per school day.

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