English 112: Paraphrase Exercise

Using a computer, prepare a paraphrase of the following passage, using quoted key words and phrase as appropriate. Use the required format, including double spacing, etc.

            In the last decade, the earliest years of schooling have become less like a trip to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood and more like SAT prep. Thirty years ago first grade was for learning how to read. Now, reading lessons start in kindergarten, and kids who don’t crack the code by the middle of first grade get extra help. Instead of story time, finger painting, tracing letters, and snack, first graders are spending hours doing math work sheets and sounding out words in reading groups. In some places, recess, music, art, and even social studies are being replaced by writing exercises and spelling quizzes.

(Tyre, Peg. “The New First Grade: Too Much Too Soon?” Newsweek 11 Nov. 2006: 35.)

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