Skip to main content

Argument essay

The value of boredom

  • Units 1, 2 and 4
  • 6 points
  • About 40 minutes

You get a short introduction to an issue or idea, often with a quotation, and write an argument for your own position, backed by evidence such as examples from history, current events, reading, observation or your own experience. On the exam: Question 3 of 3, required. Section II has 3 essays in 2 hours 15 minutes, including a 15-minute reading period, and is 55% of the score; each essay is worth 6 points on the same analytic rubric (thesis 1, evidence and commentary 4, sophistication 1). The exam is fully digital in Bluebook. About 40 minutes recommended.

The question

Suggested time: 40 minutes. There are no sources: support your argument with evidence you know from your reading, studies, experience or observation.

Suggested time: 40 minutes

Your answers are saved in this browser as you type.

Something wrong with this question?

What's wrong?

Please don't include personal details.

The essay

6 points

Many people now fill nearly every spare moment, whether waiting in line, riding a bus or lying in bed, with a phone, a playlist or a show. Some argue that boredom has become rare and that something valuable has been lost; others see boredom as wasted time that technology has rightly eliminated. Write an essay that argues your position on the value of boredom. In your response you should do the following: • Write a thesis that takes a defensible position on the question. • Use specific evidence to support your line of reasoning. • Explain how that evidence supports your line of reasoning. • Use grammar and punctuation that make your argument clear.

0 words · 0 / 12,000 characters

Checking scoring…

Scoring it yourself shows you the rubric, examples and a model answer. Try writing your answer first.