English 191 - WRITING WORKSHOP II - Zimbler

Topic:

Many of our parents and grandparents grew up in a time when televisions, computers, and video players were not available. For entertainment and information, they were likely to read newspapers, magazines, and books. Today, however, national surveys show that children and young adults spend less time reading and more time watching videos, accessing the Internet, or playing computer games. These young adults claim that electronic and web-based materials help them learn more effectively, stimulating the imagination through interactive, multi-media tools. Also, many children find computer games and websites more entertaining than reading. Furthermore, in some cultures, reading is not as important as other activities, such as sports, cooking, or taking care of young children in the family. And today’s busy parents often do not have the time to teach their children the pleasures and benefits of reading, so many children grow up without role models for reading. On the other hand, for some of us, life without reading would be unimaginable. We may read newspapers and magazines to become better informed about the world around us, or we may read novels and stories to escape into worlds of fantasy and imagination. Reading can stimulate our emotions, such as love and hope, and help us learn more about ourselves. Biographies can provide role models for us, inspiring us to grow and succeed. We may need to read often for practical reasons, such as work or college, or we may read to strengthen our religious faith. In some cases, people love to read because they grew up in a family environment that encouraged reading. How important is reading in your life? 

In a well-developed essay of at least four paragraphs, discuss whether reading is important in your life. State at least two reasons why reading is or is not important in your life. Support your reasons with specific examples from your own experience, observation, or knowledge.

Scoring:

Readers will expect to find the following in your essay:

1. An introduction with a thesis statement.
2. At least two body paragraphs.  Each body paragraph

      should begin with a topic sentence and develop one

      idea through examples and specific details.

3.   A conclusion.