Controversy: Issues for Reading and Writing

This innovative reader helps readers develop a strong cognitive approach to critical reading and writing by challenging them to express their own ideas on controversial issues and to respond to those of others on the same issues. It features opposing, accessible readings on sixteen current topics—with questions to stimulate application of prior knowledge, critical response, and persuasive writing—and with a focus on developing an active, questioning, skeptical approach toward ideas in print. The volume introduces the process of critical reading and writing, and provides issues for writing including the juvenile justice system, should witnesses become involved?, should adoption records be confidential?, aggression in sports, affirmative action in college admissions, obedience, controlling our own fates, rap as a cultural force, welfare vs. workfare, human cloning and human rights, the right to bear arms, sex education, should high school be required?, the effects of technology on society, pornography, and is freedom worth dying for? For those interested in improving their critical reading and writing skills.

Judith J. Pula, professor of English at Maryland's Frostburg State University, has nearly 20 years of experience as a reading, composition, and learning disabilities specialist in a university setting. She has been recognized at campus and statewide levels for teaching excellence. A recipient of state and international organization scholarships, Pula has also served the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International as a member of its journal's editorial board and as state and chapter research chair.

Audrey T. Edwards taught reading and composition to college freshmen for 11 years; she has won several awards for her teaching, including individualized instruction of students with learning disabilities. Currently a professor in the Department of Secondary Education and Foundations at Eastern Illinois University, she administers a field-oriented program to prepare secondary-school teachers.

R. Allan Dermott, professor emeritus of English at the New Hampshire Community Technical College at Manchester/Stratham, taught English for 28 years, first in the public schools and then at four universities and colleges. He has several published articles and presentations to his credit. His main focus was in teaching developmental reading and composition courses and helping students with learning disabilities.