Question 50
NECO_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1
•
2017
•
ENGLISH_LANGUAGE
•
objective
Claim: "School uniforms should be abolished because they limit students' self‑expression." Write a rebuttal paragraph (4‑5 sentences) that (i) identifies a logical fallacy in the claim, (ii) presents a counter‑argument, and (iii) supports it with a concrete example.
Answer Options
A.
The claim that uniforms should be abolished because they limit self‑expression commits an ad hominem fallacy - it attacks the policy rather than the reasoning behind it. In fact, the real issue is whether uniforms improve school safety, not whether they are a fashion statement. For example, at Riverside Middle School students who wore uniforms reported feeling less pressure to keep up with trends, which reduced bullying. Thus, the focus should be on safety, not on a supposed loss of individuality.
B.
The statement assumes that uniforms are the only way students can express themselves, which is a hasty generalization. While uniforms may limit clothing choices, they actually foster a sense of community that can inspire other forms of expression. At Oakwood High, the introduction of a school‑wide art mural project gave students a platform to showcase their personalities, proving that uniform policies do not preclude individuality. Consequently, abolishing uniforms is unnecessary for promoting self‑expression.
Correct Answer
C.
The argument that uniforms must be removed because they limit self‑expression presents a false dilemma - it assumes clothing is the sole outlet for individuality. In reality, students can express themselves through clubs, sports, art, and personal achievements. For instance, at XYZ High School the weekly "Creative Showcase" allows pupils to display their talents and personalities, proving that identity thrives even with a uniform dress code. Therefore, abolishing uniforms is unnecessary; schools can maintain equality while encouraging self‑expression through diverse activities.
D.
The argument presents a slippery‑slope fallacy, suggesting that allowing uniforms inevitably leads to a total loss of personal freedom. However, schools can maintain dress codes while still encouraging creativity in other areas. At Green Valley Academy, after eliminating uniforms, the administration observed a rise in truancy and disciplinary incidents, showing that removing dress codes does not automatically enhance self‑expression. Therefore, keeping uniforms does not guarantee a cascade of negative outcomes.
Correct Answer
C
Correct Option:
The argument that uniforms must be removed because they limit self‑expression presents a false dilemma - it assumes clothing is the sole outlet for individuality. In reality, students can express themselves through clubs, sports, art, and personal achievements. For instance, at XYZ High School the weekly "Creative Showcase" allows pupils to display their talents and personalities, proving that identity thrives even with a uniform dress code. Therefore, abolishing uniforms is unnecessary; schools can maintain equality while encouraging self‑expression through diverse activities.
About This Question
This is
Neco Model Questions Vol1
2017
English Language
Question 50.
It is one of the
objective
questions from the
2017
Neco Model Questions Vol1
English Language
examination.
Difficulty level:
Hard
.