Phonics vs. Whole Language -- Do you think that students should be taught to read using phonics, the system that teaches children to decode words in "chunks," or whole language, which "immerses" children in reading and lets them figure out new words by their context?

A -- Phonics is a better system for teaching children to read because it gives them strategies for deciphering words they've never seen, and can help kids with reading problems get up to grade level.

B -- Whole language is better because children learn to enjoy books and they gain a better overall understanding of what they're reading.

C -- A program that combines instruction in phonics within a framework of whole language will give children the skills to deal with strange words, teach them to enjoy reading, and be successful in reaching the most students.

D -- I don't have an opinion on this issue.

The Results:

School Uniforms -- Particularly due to President Clinton's endorsement, the idea of school uniforms for public school students has been getting much attention. How do you feel about uniforms?

A -- If all students wear uniforms, it will eliminate the problem of gang attire, promote a serious atmosphere, engender school spirit, and soften the distinction between children of varied socioeconomic backgrounds.

B -- Uniforms are a cosmetic solution, and will not change students' mentality with relation to gangs, schoolwork, or each other. They will only stifle individual expression.

C -- School uniforms may or may not actually make a difference in how students think or act, but they might be worth a try.

D -- I don't have an opinion on this issue.

The Results:

The American Curriculum -- "Are American students prepared for the future?" seems to be a question on the lips of every politician and newscaster. What do you think about the typical American curriculum as compared to that of other countries?

A -- The American curriculum displays a variety unmatched in any other culture. U.S. schools produce students who are well-rounded and prepared for life, as well as the workforce.

B -- Other countries, like Japan, have been more successful than America in producing good students who get good jobs. We should restructure our curricula to be more like theirs.

C -- The American curriculum certainly has room for improvement, but not necessarily by means of the wholesale adoption of another country's policies.

D -- I don't have an opinion on this issue.

The Results: