Kim Pischel

ESE 490

Writing Prompt

Academic Expectations 2.1

Students understand scientific ways of thinking and working and use those methods to solve real-life problems.

SC-H-EU-U-6

Students will understand that mathematical models and computer simulations are used in studying evidence from many sources to form a scientific account of the universe.

(These are often done with metric units).

Task

The SI, or metric system, is a measurement system used by scientists worldwide. It is also used by every nation except the United States. Because of these facts, some people argue that the United States should adopt the metric system. Either write a letter (approximately one page) to your US congressional representative or write a speech (approximately one to two minutes) to be given at a town hall meeting explaining whether or not the United States should adopt the metric system. In your letter or speech, be sure to consider the ease of use of each system and advantages and disadvantages gained from having the same measurement system as the rest of the world.

Rubric (modified from Rubistar)

CATEGORY	4 - Above Standards	3 - Meets Standards	2 - Approaching Standards	1 - Below Standards	Score
Position Statement	The position statement provides a clear, strong statement of the author's position on the topic.	The position statement provides a clear statement of the author's position on the topic.	A position statement is present, but does not make the the author's position clear.	There is no position statement.
Support for Position	Includes 3 or more pieces of evidence (facts, statistics, examples, real-life experiences) that support the position statement. The writer anticipates the reader's concerns, biases or arguments.	Includes 3 or more pieces of evidence (facts, statistics, examples, real-life experiences) that support the position statement.	Includes 2 pieces of evidence (facts, statistics, examples, real-life experiences) that support the position statement.	Includes 1 or fewer pieces of evidence (facts, statistics, examples, real-life experiences).
Evidence and Examples	All of the evidence and examples are specific, relevant and explanations are given that show how each piece of evidence supports the author's position.	Most of the evidence and examples are specific, relevant and explanations are given that show how each piece of evidence supports the author's position.	At least one of the pieces of evidence and examples is relevant and has an explanation that shows how that piece of evidence supports the author's position.	Evidence and examples are NOT relevant AND/OR are not explained.
Accuracy	All supportive facts and statistics are reported accurately and indicate an understanding of the metric system.	Almost all supportive facts and statistics are reported accurately and indicate an understanding of the metric system.	Most supportive facts and statistics are reported accurately and indicate an understanding of the metric system.	Most supportive facts and statistics were inaccurately reported and do not indicate an understanding of the metric system.
Sources	All sources used for quotes, statistics and facts are credible and cited correctly.	All sources used for quotes, statistics and facts are credible and most are cited correctly.	Most sources used for quotes, statistics and facts are credible and cited correctly.	Many sources are suspect (not credible) AND/OR are not cited correctly.
Audience	Demonstrates a clear understanding of the potential reader and uses appropriate vocabulary and arguments. Anticipates reader's questions and provides thorough answers appropriate for that audience.	Demonstrates a general understanding of the potential reader and uses vocabulary and arguments appropriate for that audience.	Demonstrates some understanding of the potential reader and uses arguments appropriate for that audience.	It is not clear who the author is writing for.