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Essay / Analysis of Mary Sherry's Praise of the F-Word
Sherry uses some valid points to address her claim, but she could use more than just one example to show readers how the "F" word might be used in class. The author makes it clear that many graduates or dropouts lack the basic skills to succeed in life, because they have been "misled by our education system" and she wants to do something about it (1 ). Sherry shows that without a proper education, some students are not ready to enter the workforce or cannot understand reading or writing. Education is very important in life and it is crucial for students to succeed and graduate once they graduate. To inspire students to stay focused and determined, Sherry argues that the “F,” meaning failure, will motivate these high school students, work harder, and prioritize education. The “F” word refers to a “policy that has worked in the past and can work today” (2). This is very effective because if teachers continued to set their students up for failure and push them to do better, then many students would better understand the skills needed to succeed. Although Sherry makes a good argument about education and failure, she could have cited more concrete examples to show readers how effective the "F" word could be. Sherry mentioned that her son's teacher used the chess card on him and it worked. , but what about the other children who are not his. How will readers know if the failure card works on certain students? Many students are distracted and the “F” word doesn't work, or it works, but doesn't always work. Sherry could have explained these types of situations and given readers a better understanding. Overall, Sherry gives good details to support her