Claims and Evidence - Practice

Every middle school should have a school garden because it improves students' health, learning, and environmental awareness. Research from the University of Florida found that students who participated in school gardening programs ate 20% more fruits and vegetables than their peers. The hands-on nature of gardening also enhances science education - a 2022 study showed that students who learned about plants through gardening scored 15% higher on biology assessments.

Dr. Jennifer Adams, a professor of environmental education, explains that "school gardens create authentic learning experiences that textbooks simply cannot replicate." Beyond academics, gardens teach responsibility and teamwork. At Roosevelt Middle School in California, discipline referrals dropped by 30% after implementing a garden program, as students developed pride in caring for living things.

Some argue that schools lack space and funding for gardens. However, container gardens and raised beds can work in small areas, and many communities have garden grants available. The long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment.

Modern zoos play a vital role in wildlife conservation and should be supported. Zoos around the world participate in breeding programs that have saved species from extinction. The California condor, for example, was down to just 27 birds in 1987. Thanks to zoo breeding programs, there are now over 500 condors, with more than half living in the wild.

Zoos also fund conservation research that protects animals in the wild. The San Diego Zoo alone contributes over $10 million annually to field conservation projects across 80 countries. Without zoos, many of these projects would lose crucial funding.

Critics argue that animals suffer in captivity. While this was true of older zoos, modern facilities prioritize animal welfare. Accredited zoos must meet strict standards for space, enrichment, and veterinary care. Animals in quality zoos often live longer than their wild counterparts because they receive consistent food, medical attention, and protection from predators.

By visiting zoos, people develop connections with wildlife they might never otherwise see. This emotional connection inspires conservation action. A study by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums found that 61% of visitors reported increased commitment to conservation after their visit.

Social media is harmful to teenagers and parents should limit their children's access. Everyone knows that scrolling through Instagram makes people feel bad about themselves. My cousin spent too much time on TikTok and her grades dropped. These platforms are designed to be addictive, and teenagers don't have the self-control to manage them.

Social media also exposes teens to cyberbullying. A lot of kids get bullied online, which is really sad. I read somewhere that social media causes depression, which proves my point. Parents need to step up and protect their children from these harmful effects.

Some people say social media helps teens connect with friends, but real friendships happen face-to-face. Before smartphones existed, teenagers were happier and healthier. We should go back to those days and ban social media for anyone under 18.