OREO Anchor Paper Student Samples:

 OREO Student Anchor Papers: 

OREO Opinion Essay: WHY TEACH CHESS? 

Introduction: Chess is a game that has been played for centuries and is enjoyed by millions of people around the world. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in teaching chess in schools as a way to promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and other important skills. In this essay, I will argue that teaching chess in schools is a valuable and worthwhile endeavor.

Opinion: In my opinion, teaching chess in schools is a great way to promote critical thinking and other important skills in students. Chess requires players to think strategically, anticipate their opponent's moves, and make quick decisions based on changing circumstances. By playing chess, students can develop these skills and apply them to other areas of their lives, such as academics or professional careers.

Reason: One reason that teaching chess in schools is important is that it can help to improve students' academic performance. According to research, students who play chess regularly have been found to have higher levels of academic achievement and improved problem-solving skills. Additionally, chess can help to improve students' memory and concentration, which are important skills for success in school and beyond.

Furthermore, chess can also help students develop important executive function skills, such as planning, organization, and self-control. These skills are essential for academic success and can also benefit students in their personal and professional lives. By teaching chess in schools, students can learn and practice these skills in a fun and engaging way, which can help to improve their overall academic performance and long-term success.

Evidence: There is ample evidence to support the idea that teaching chess in schools can have a positive impact on students. For example, a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that students who played chess had higher levels of critical thinking skills and academic achievement. Another study published in the International Journal of Science and Research found that playing chess can improve students' cognitive and analytical abilities.

Additionally, a study conducted by the University of Texas at Dallas found that students who participated in chess classes had improved math and reading scores. The study also found that chess helped to develop students' problem-solving skills and ability to think creatively. Another study published in the Journal of Applied Cognitive Psychology found that chess players were better able to visualize and analyze complex patterns, which is a skill that can be applied to many areas of life. Overall, these studies provide strong evidence that teaching chess in schools can have a positive impact on students' academic performance and cognitive abilities.

Opinion: In addition to improving academic performance, teaching chess in schools can also have social and emotional benefits for students. Chess is a game that can be played by people of all ages and backgrounds, and can help to promote socialization and community-building among students. Additionally, playing chess can be a stress-relieving activity, which can help to improve students' mental health and well-being.

Reason: Another reason that teaching chess in schools is important is that it can help to promote diversity and inclusivity. Chess is a game that can be played by anyone, regardless of their gender, race, or socioeconomic background. By teaching chess in schools, we can help to break down barriers and promote diversity and inclusivity among students.

Conclusion: In conclusion, teaching chess in schools is a valuable and worthwhile endeavor. By playing chess, students can develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and other important skills that can help them succeed academically and professionally. Additionally, chess can promote socialization, community-building, and diversity among students. Therefore, I strongly believe that teaching chess in schools should be encouraged and supported by educators and policymakers.

OREO Opinion Essay: Stop Cutting School Recess 

Introduction: As a 4th-grade student, I believe that school recess is an essential part of every child's day. Unfortunately, in recent years, many schools have been cutting back on recess time or even eliminating it altogether. In this essay, I will share my opinion on the importance of school recess and argue that it should be a priority in every school's curriculum.

Opinion: In my opinion, school recess is an essential part of a child's daily routine. Not only does it provide a much-needed break from academic work, but it also allows students to socialize with their peers and engage in physical activity. In fact, research has shown that regular physical activity during the school day can lead to improved academic performance, better classroom behavior, and even higher self-esteem.

Reason: One reason that school recess is so important is that it provides children with an opportunity to socialize and build relationships with their peers. During recess, students can engage in unstructured play and develop important social skills such as cooperation, communication, and conflict resolution. These skills are essential for success in both the academic and professional worlds, and they cannot be taught in a traditional classroom setting.

Evidence: In addition to the social benefits, school recess also has significant physical benefits for children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. However, many children do not meet this recommendation, and lack of physical activity is a leading cause of childhood obesity. By providing regular opportunities for physical activity during the school day, schools can help to promote healthy habits and prevent childhood obesity.

Opinion: Despite the clear benefits of school recess, many schools have been cutting back on recess time or eliminating it altogether. This is often due to pressure to meet academic standards and the belief that time spent on recess is time wasted. However, I believe that this mentality is shortsighted and ultimately harmful to students.

Reason: By eliminating school recess, schools are neglecting an important aspect of children's development and well-being. In the long run, this could have negative consequences for both academic performance and overall health. It is important for schools to recognize the value of school recess and make it a priority in their curriculum.

Conclusion: In conclusion, school recess is an essential part of every child's day. It provides students with an opportunity to socialize, engage in physical activity, and develop important life skills. Schools should recognize the value of school recess and make it a priority in their curriculum. By doing so, they can promote the health, well-being, and academic success of their students.

OREO Option Essay: Health School Lunches 

Introduction: As a student who has experienced the ups and downs of school lunches, I believe that healthy school lunches are essential for the well-being and success of every student. In this essay, I will argue that schools should prioritize the provision of healthy lunches and that unhealthy options should be eliminated.

Opinion: In my opinion, healthy school lunches are critical for students' physical and mental health. Many students consume the majority of their daily calories at school, which means that the nutritional quality of school meals has a significant impact on their overall health. Furthermore, students who eat healthy lunches are more likely to have the energy and focus they need to succeed academically.

Reason: One reason that healthy school lunches are so important is that they can help to prevent childhood obesity and other health problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 40 years. Unhealthy school lunches, which are often high in fat, sugar, and calories, are a major contributor to this trend. By providing nutritious meals, schools can help to promote healthy habits and prevent future health problems.

Evidence: There is ample evidence to support the idea that healthy school lunches have a positive impact on student health and academic performance. A study published in the Journal of School Health found that students who ate healthy school lunches were less likely to be overweight or obese and had higher academic achievement. Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that students who participated in a healthy school lunch program had better dietary habits overall.

Opinion: Despite the clear benefits of healthy school lunches, many schools continue to offer unhealthy options. This is often due to budget constraints and the belief that students will not eat healthy foods. However, I believe that schools should prioritize the provision of healthy lunches and that unhealthy options should be eliminated.

Reason: By offering healthy school lunches, schools are promoting the well-being and success of their students. This is an investment in the future of our society, as healthy and well-educated individuals are more likely to contribute positively to their communities. Furthermore, offering healthy school lunches can help to promote equity, as low-income students are more likely to rely on school meals for their daily nutrition.

Conclusion: In conclusion, healthy school lunches are essential for the well-being and success of every student. By offering nutritious meals, schools can promote healthy habits, prevent childhood obesity and other health problems, and support academic achievement. It is time for schools to prioritize the provision of healthy lunches and eliminate unhealthy options. This will benefit not only individual students but also our society as a whole.

Introduction: As a high school student and future educator, I strongly believe that children's exposure to social media should be limited. While social media has many benefits, it can also have negative impacts on children's mental health, social development, and overall well-being. In this essay, I will argue that parents and schools should work together to limit children's exposure to social media and promote healthy alternatives.

Opinion: In my opinion, social media can be harmful to children's development and well-being. While social media can help children to stay connected with friends and family, it can also lead to social isolation, cyberbullying, and other negative experiences. Additionally, excessive social media use can lead to a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

Reason: One reason that limiting children's exposure to social media is important is that it can promote healthy social development. Social media can create a false sense of connection and may prevent children from developing the social skills they need to form real-life relationships. By limiting social media use, children can have more opportunities for face-to-face interaction, which can improve their social skills and overall well-being.

Evidence: There is ample evidence to support the idea that social media can have negative impacts on children's mental health. A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that teenagers who spent more time on social media had higher rates of depression and anxiety. Additionally, a study published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior found that social media use was linked to decreased well-being in both children and adults.

Opinion: Despite the clear negative impacts of social media, many children are still exposed to it on a regular basis. This is often due to the widespread use of smartphones and the internet, as well as the belief that social media is necessary for social connection and communication. However, I believe that parents and schools should work together to limit children's exposure to social media and promote healthy alternatives.

Reason: By limiting children's exposure to social media, parents and schools can help to promote healthy habits and prevent negative experiences. This can include setting limits on screen time, monitoring children's social media use, and encouraging alternative activities such as outdoor play, reading, and creative projects. Additionally, parents and schools can work together to teach children about the risks of social media and how to use it safely and responsibly.

Conclusion: In conclusion, limiting children's exposure to social media is essential for promoting healthy development and well-being. While social media has many benefits, it can also have negative impacts on children's mental health, social development, and overall well-being. It is time for parents and schools to work together to limit children's exposure to social media and promote healthy alternatives. By doing so, we can help to create a healthier and happier future for our children

OREO Opinion Essay After Schools Programs 

Introduction: After-school activities are an important part of every child's education and personal development. These activities can provide children with opportunities to learn new skills, develop their interests, and socialize with their peers outside of the classroom. In this essay, I will argue that after-school activities should be encouraged and supported by parents and schools.

Opinion: In my opinion, after-school activities are essential for a child's personal and educational growth. These activities can provide children with opportunities to develop new skills and interests, such as music, sports, or art. Additionally, after-school activities can help children to build self-esteem, confidence, and a sense of belonging to a community.

Reason: One reason that after-school activities are important is that they can help to keep children engaged and motivated. Many children may become bored or disinterested in traditional classroom activities, which can lead to poor academic performance or behavioral problems. By providing after-school activities, schools and parents can keep children engaged and motivated to learn and develop new skills.

Evidence: There is ample evidence to support the idea that after-school activities can have a positive impact on a child's academic performance and personal development. According to a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, participation in after-school activities was associated with higher academic achievement and lower rates of behavioral problems in students. Additionally, a report from the National Center for Education Statistics found that students who participated in after-school activities were more likely to have positive attitudes towards school and higher levels of academic achievement.

Opinion: Despite the clear benefits of after-school activities, many children may not have access to these opportunities due to financial or other constraints. It is important for parents and schools to work together to ensure that all children have access to after-school activities and that these activities are affordable and accessible.

Reason: By providing access to after-school activities, parents and schools can help to level the playing field and ensure that all children have the opportunity to develop their skills and interests. Additionally, after-school activities can provide a safe and supportive environment for children who may not have access to these resources at home.

Conclusion: In conclusion, after-school activities are an important part of a child's education and personal development. These activities can provide children with opportunities to learn new skills, develop their interests, and socialize with their peers. It is important for parents and schools to work together to ensure that all children have access to after-school activities and that these activities are affordable and accessible. By doing so, we can help to create a brighter future for our children.