Read the introduction to the Brenner et al. paper. Describe…
Questions
Reаd the intrоductiоn tо the Brenner et аl. pаper. Describe what they knew to be the life cycle of T2. Start with the mixing of T2 and E. coli solutions.
English II Summаtive Assessment: The Fоur-Dаy Schооl Week Debаte The Assignment: Your school district is currently debating a move from the traditional five-day schedule to a four-day school week. You will read the four articles provided below. Your goal is to write a 2 paragraph argumentative essay that answers the following question: Should our school district adopt a four-day school week, or should we remain on the traditional five-day schedule? Your 2 paragraph essay must include: A clear thesis statement at the end of the introduction that takes a definite stance. At least 1 body paragraph Supporting evidence using direct quotes or paraphrased information from at least two of the four articles, cited correctly. Detailed analysis explaining how your chosen evidence proves your claim. Source 1: "The Fiscal Reality: Small Savings, Big Decisions" Source: National Conference of State Legislatures Many school districts consider a four-day week primarily to save money. By closing one day a week, schools can reduce costs in transportation, food services, and energy. However, recent data suggests these savings might be smaller than expected. Research indicates that the average cost savings for districts on a four-day week range from only 0.4% to 2.5%. While a 5.43% maximum saving is possible, it often depends on whether the school stays completely closed on the fifth day or offers optional activities. For some small, rural districts, even a saving of $57,000 is considered a meaningful budget win. Source 2: "Academic Achievement: Does the Schedule Matter?" Source: The Journalist’s Resource / University of Oregon The impact of a shorter week on student grades is a major concern. One major analysis of 11 high-quality studies found "no evidence of large positive effects" on student outcomes. In fact, researchers found that students on a four-day schedule often learned less during the school year than those on a five-day schedule. However, the results vary by location. While achievement fell considerably in non-rural (suburban or urban) areas, the impact on students in rural schools was often minimal or non-significant. One study in Oregon even suggested that a four-day week might reduce high school dropout rates, though it increased absenteeism for older students. Source 3: "A Tool for Teacher Recruitment and Morale" Source: Medium / Education Week In an era of widespread teacher burnout, many districts use the four-day week as a non-monetary incentive to attract staff. A 2023 survey found that 70% of teachers support the shorter schedule, compared to 60% of school leaders. In rural New Mexico, some schools achieved full staffing levels for the first time in years after making the switch. Proponents argue the extra day provides crucial "work-life balance," allowing teachers more time for lesson planning, professional development, or even personal medical appointments without missing class. Source 4: "Social Impact: Sleep, Safety, and Student Life" Source: RAND Corporation / Care.com The shorter week has a significant impact on students' daily lives outside of school. Survey data shows that 85% of students in four-day districts like the schedule "a lot". High schoolers often use the extra day for jobs, chores, or school activities like sports travel. Additionally, a study of Oklahoma high schools suggested that a four-day week "probably reduces bullying, fighting, and school bus incidents". On the other hand, critics point out that longer school days can be exhausting for younger or neurodivergent students and create major childcare hurdles for working parents.