School Vouchers: Questions

Introduction | Definitions | In favor | Opposed | Internet | Questions

Here are a few questions you might want to read, think, talk, or write about as you explore the resources on this topic:

1. Concept Safari: Search the web for the following concepts. Use the search technique described in the University of Illinois Grammar Safari page to find uses. Find example pages, print them out, and be prepared to share with the class. Be sure to save the exact URL of each example you collect.
   charter school
   school choice program
   school prayer
   school voucher
   tuition tax credit
2. Vocabulary Safari:
   priority
   opportunity
   assistance
   equity
   • Locate 6 examples of the word by using the search techniques described on the Grammar Safari page. Try to locate 3 examples from web pages related to the issue of tobacco and smoking and 3 from pages related to other topics. Copy the examples to a word processing file to save for later.
   • Paraphrase the example sentences.
   • Write 2 sentences using each word.
   • List and practice: write these words on a small index card. Keep it with you and use each word at least twice a day for the next 5 days.
3. Both Sides: write or prepare for oral presentation a brief summary of the arguments for and against school voucher plans. Support your explanation with references to online resources.
4. Essay: choose one of the questions below and write a one- or two-page typed essay which answers it. Use at least two or three references to internet resources, and be sure to cite them correctly (check our guide to citations if you need help):
   • Narrative essay: Tell the story of the struggle between proponents and opponents of vouchers in Wisconsin. Check web sites and web news for
   • Comparison essay: What are some of the most important differences between public and private schools? Organize your description of differences from least to most important.
   • Cause & effect essay: In your opinion, what might be the results of the establishment of a national school voucher program in the United States or in another country? Be sure to provide support for your ideas.
   • Argumentative essay: Argue for or against a system of school vouchers. Be sure to define what you mean by a voucher program, and to use evidence to show why you think they would be a bad or good idea.
5. Website analysis: Choose a website from among the links on this unit, or find another on the topic. Write a short paper or prepare an oral presentation answering the following questions:
   1. What is the site's purpose?
   2. What is the intended audience of the site?
   3. Is the site's information up-to-date; how can you tell?
   4. Is the site's information reliable; how can you tell?
   5. For what kind of writing would this website be an appropriate source?
6. Poster project: Your dream school...create a poster illustrating your ideas about the best possible organization of schools in your community. Who would decide what was taught? How would education be paid for? What special programs would be provided for children with special needs?