Prompt In an effort to increase traffic safety, lawmakers in some states are debating whether to make it illegal to use a cell phone while driving a car. Some people support such a law because they think a ban on using cell phones while driving would cut down on traffic accidents that occur when people use a phone and drive at the same time. Other people do not support such a law because they think a ban on cell phone use would address only one of many dangerous distractions that drivers experience while ignoring many others. In your opinion, should using a cell phone while driving a car be illegal? In your essay, take a position on this question. You may write about either one of the two points of view given, or you may present a different point of view on this question. Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.

Components of ACT essay: can be used in any order Claim: has a topic, debatable view, and the significance to the reader (prong). Counter with rebuttal Scenario Anecdote Implications Write in 1 st person(it is acceptable since it’s not research based).

Position Tentative (temporary) Claim: Should answer the following question and explain the result of this position. In your opinion, should using a cell phone while driving a car be illegal? Example: Cell phones should be illegal when driving because they distract the driver and lead to more accident occurring; although some people feel there are other distractions drivers face on the road besides cell phones.

Now the scenario… Write a scenario paragraph placing your reader in the position of a driver who is faced with the decision to answer his or her cell phone. Your scenario should illustrate what you are trying to prove about cell phone laws, in other words showing why you are right using this specific example. Words indicating a scenario: You, your, imagine, consider, suppose, now (transition)

Now write an anecdote… Write a paragraph that is a personal anecdote ( a short story about a real incident) when you experienced a situation where you or another driver used a cell phone while driving. Again, your anecdote must prove your position stated in your claim.

Counterargument: Introducing the opposition (Lawmakers) today tend to believe___________ A number of __________have recently suggested__________. It is often assumed that_________. When it comes to_________, most will readily agree that__________.

Counter continued.. Explain the reasoning for the counter…

Introducing the rebuttal What________fail(s) to consider is ____ This assertion/position is problematic because________. While this view is popular, it overlooks the fact that__________.

Rebuttal continued Elaborate/Explain why rebuttal is true…

Conclusion Transition words such as: essentially, ultimately, in essence. Include the implications (Why this is important and potential effects)