Briefly describe what you believe is a major domestic problem confronting the United States - socially, economically or in health care. Indicate how you think this problem should be resolved.
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Occasionally, I walk into my school cafeteria and all I can think is, "Why?" We are served all sorts of tasty treats laden with sugar, oil, and fat. Almost without exception, the students who are struggling with their weight are the very students eating these foods. There are countless ways to successfully tackle the childhood obesity epidemic.
School is the best place to start.
Replacing pizza and French fries them with healthier options like rice, vegetables, and fresh fruit would prompt a significant decrease in the percentage of obese youth. My school's vending machines were once notorious for their vast array of chips, juice, and candy. One day, however, we arrived and were shocked to see a new machine stocked with boxes of fresh pineapples, carrots, apple slices, and grapes. Today, students flock to it more eagerly than they do the old vending machines. Such a simple improvement should be made in every school.
Physical education is another critical factor in the fight against obesity. All students should participate in gym every single day and take health classes periodically. Second, gym must carry real academic significance. At my school, students do not take gym seriously because they know that it will not affect their grade point averages. If all public schools counted gym on the report card, students-especially those in high school-would participate and learn the importance of diet and exercise. Finally, we need to emphasize more strongly the importance of interscholastic athletics. After-school physical activity can go a long way-children cannot relax on couches and attend softball practices simultaneously.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the percentage of obese children aged 6-11 years in the United States increased from 7% in 1980 to nearly 20% in 2008. If effective action is not taken soon, the numbers will only increase. Obesity affects a child on all levels: physical, mental, and emotional. It is our collective patriotic obligation to overcome this national epidemic. Children are the most precious part of our society; we must build them up to be confident, healthy, and strong. It is imperative that we stop viewing this crisis halfheartedly and apathetically.
CHECK THIS FOR ANY PUNCTUATION ERRORS I MIGHT HAVE MADE. I'll check back in about an hour to see whether you have any questions.
Healthy Eating in School
Occasionally, I walk into my school cafeteria and all I can think is, "Why?" We are served all sorts of tasty treats laden with sugar, oil, and fat. Almost without exception, the students who are struggling with their weight are the very students eating these foods. There are countless ways to successfully tackle the childhood obesity epidemic.
School is the best place to start.
Replacing pizza and French fries them with healthier options like rice, vegetables, and fresh fruit would prompt a significant decrease in the percentage of obese youth. My school's vending machines were once notorious for their vast array of chips, juice, and candy. One day, however, we arrived and were shocked to see a new machine stocked with boxes of fresh pineapples, carrots, apple slices, and grapes. Today, students flock to it more eagerly than they do the old vending machines. Such a simple improvement should be made in every school.
Physical education is another critical factor in the fight against obesity. All students should participate in gym every single day and take health classes periodically. Second, gym must carry real academic significance. At my school, students do not take gym seriously because they know that it will not affect their grade point averages. If all public schools counted gym on the report card, students-especially those in high school-would participate and learn the importance of diet and exercise. Finally, we need to emphasize more strongly the importance of interscholastic athletics. After-school physical activity can go a long way-children cannot relax on couches and attend softball practices simultaneously.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the percentage of obese children aged 6-11 years in the United States increased from 7% in 1980 to nearly 20% in 2008. If effective action is not taken soon, the numbers will only increase. Obesity affects a child on all levels: physical, mental, and emotional. It is our collective patriotic obligation to overcome this national epidemic. Children are the most precious part of our society; we must build them up to be confident, healthy, and strong. It is imperative that we stop viewing this crisis halfheartedly and apathetically.
