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Diagnostic Essay. Fall 2025

Directions:

You need to write a 5-paragraph essay addressing one of the prompts below. You must have an introductory paragraph concluding with your paper's thesis. You need to have clear body paragraph points that prove your thesis. Each body paragraph must contain a topic sentence, evidence, and an analysis of your evidence proving your topic sentence. You also need a concluding paragraph. Your paragraphs need to be at least five sentences. This essay is to determine your writing skills. Do not use outside sources, just your head.

1. Many parents do not allow their children to play with toy guns. In your opinion, is this a wise decision? Explain what you think parents should do about toy guns and why.

2. If someone discovered a formula that would enable us to live forever, would that be a blessing or a curse? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

3. Elementary and secondary schools around the country are beginning to actively address the problem of bullies. In your opinion, is bullying an issue that should be addressed by schools or left to parents? Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.

4. Many people feel that American society is too competitive. Do you agree? If so, is this a good thing or a bad thing? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer

5. What would improve your hometown? Write an essay convincing town officials to make a change that would improve your neighborhood