Use the claims about banning plastic bags to complete the activity.

Claim 1

What do you think about when you toss a plastic bag into the garbage? If you’re like most people, then you probably do not think about much at all. We don’t think about the fact that plastic bags take centuries to decay. We do not think about how many bags end up in lakes, rivers, and oceans, harming wildlife and even causing death. However, we should think about all this. Better yet, we should do something about it: ban the use of plastic bags. If this happens, then we will all feel better knowing that we are not contributing to pollution and harming wildlife. And besides, plastic bags are not a necessity. Paper bags are an alternative, and so are reusable cloth bags.

Claim 2

It seems like we are drowning in plastic bags, but before you decide to ban them, you should remember some of the reasons companies started using plastic back in the 1970s. Before there was plastic, there was paper and cardboard, which are made from trees. So, switching from paper to plastic saved some trees. Plastic also saved people money because it kept food fresher for longer. Also, it is lighter than cardboard or glass, so it was cheaper to ship things wrapped in plastic. Plus, plastic is safer than glass, which tends to break. So, yes, we should be using less plastic, but it does not make sense to ban it until we find a better solution.


Which paragraph provides more sound arguments? Why or why not? Write 3-5 sentences supporting your answer.

The first paragraph provides more sound arguments because it focuses on the negative environmental impacts of plastic bags and the potential benefits of banning them. It acknowledges that plastic bags are not a necessity and that there are alternatives, such as paper bags and reusable cloth bags. It also emphasizes the importance of taking action to reduce pollution and protect wildlife. The second paragraph, on the other hand, focuses on the benefits of plastic bags, such as saving trees, keeping food fresher for longer, being cheaper to ship, and being safer than glass. While these are valid points, they do not outweigh the environmental damage caused by plastic bags. Therefore, the first paragraph provides more sound arguments.