Directions: You have 25 minutes to plan and write an essay on the given topic. Do not write on another topic, as essays not on the topic receive a score of zero. You will be scored on how clearly and effectively you express your thoughts in writing. Develop your point of view carefully, as your writing will be evaluated on quality, not quantity; but do plan on writing several paragraphs to cover the topic adequately. Write legibly and be specific.

Prompt

Think carefully about the issue presented in the following quotations and the assigment below.

The general fact is that the most effective way of utilizing human energy is through organized competition. Adapted from Charles Horton Cooley

Focus on competition has always been a formula for mediocrity. Daniel Burrus

Assignment

Does an emphasis on competition tend to improve or harm our society? Plan and write an essay in which you develop your point of view on this issue. Support your position with rea - soning and examples taken from your reading, studies, experience, or observations.

Competition has definite benefits. It encourages people and organizations to try harder and do their best. That is why American society is largely organized around competitive battles. But a balance is needed. When there is too much competition, everybody loses.