1. BODY PARAGRAPHS

2. There are those who may also suggest kids work hard in school and need a break. COUNTERARGUMENT

3. I would argue this is not the case in February. REBUTTAL

4. From December 23 through January 5 th, students were given an unusually long 12-day break. After returning for seven days, students were given three half days and the following Monday off as well. SUPPORT The Utica Community Schools handbook states, “Optimal educational benefits can only be achieved through a student’s regular class attendance.”

5. If students are kept home for snow days, they will not be attending class regularly. Therefore, they will be unable to earn the benefits of consistent education. This is not a time of the year where students are in need of a break. By providing more time away from the classroom, students can only be hurt more. COMMENTARY

6. Citing Quotes Online Articles

7. In his USA Today article, “More schools use cellphones as learning tools,” Josh Higgins points out, “…teachers are lifing the ban and incorporating phones into their curriculum.”

8. In his article, “The Cellphone: Positive Impacts on Our Society,” Andy Walton identifies various ways society has benefitted from these devices. He notes, “Cellphones make it easier than ever to contact family and friends…”

9. Katy Rushlau refers to a recent study in her article, “Can’t put your cell phone down? You’re not alone.” The study, conducted at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, notes that of the students surveyed, “…60% admitted that their excessive phone use might be an addiction.”

10. Robert Szczerba highlights some possible health concerns in his article, “Study Suggests Wi-Fi Exposure More Dangerous To Kids Than Previously Thought.” He refers to an article published in the Journal of Microscopy and Ultrastructure that points out, “Children absorb a greater amount of microwave radiation than adults.”