Pro vs. con view
1242 arguments retrieved in 0.0 ms

PRO

  • PRO

    My Arguments 1. Uniforms may increase a student’s self...

    Private Schools Should Have Students Wear Uniforms

    My Arguments 1. Uniforms may increase a student’s self esteem because they do not have to worry constantly to be better dressed than those around them. Many kids are discouraged by the fact that they don't own, or cannot afford some of the clothing other kids can. Uniforms put all kids at the same level, and takes that much more stress off the students that cannot afford the latest "fashion". 2. Uniforms improve learning by not allowing kids to be distracted. Clothes can be a huge distraction when you are in the classroom, especially if you are bored. Kids always want to know what others are wearing and even judge other students over it. Uniforms eliminate this problem and helps kids to stay focused in class. 3. Uniforms show that everyone there with you is part of your school. It shows you are all part of a team. It promotes school spirit and shows that everyone there is "on the same side". This togetherness helps to eliminate division among students at the school and reduces bullying. 4. Uniforms help the school faculty to quickly identify who is part of the school and in the end could actually help in keeping strangers and potentially dangerous people off the campus. 5. Bullies like to pick on kids who are lesser than them, and therefore tend to pick on kids who do not wear quality or popular clothes. By implementing school uniforms this problem is solved. School uniforms have helped improve schools, as emphasized by one study that finds that “various benefits to wearing uniforms were reported, including decreases in discipline, gang involvement and bullying; and increases in safety, eases of going to school, confidence and self-esteem. Additionally, school police data showed a 63 percent reduction in police log reports during the first year of implementation. Other decreases were noted in reports of gang-related activities and student fights, along with graffiti, property damage, battery and administrative assist. “ [1] Contentions My opponent argues that with the implementation of school uniforms, comes a loss of a sense of individuality. This is simply false. The problem here is that many people assume that once you have to wear a uniform everybody immediately because mindless drones that all act the same. True individuality comes from personality, beliefs, and even minor accessories such as wrist bands, earring, hair styles, ect. which are all still allowed. The argument that students lose their individuality is completely overrated and isn’t reason enough to deny all that exponentially great benefits school uniforms give. “Some parents also worry that when the freedom to express themselves through their wardrobe is removed, kids will resort to more extreme forms of expression like piercings and tattoos.” Correlation does not equal causation. There is no empirical and logical evidence to suggest that students will go to extreme measures to express themselves when they must conform to school uniforms so the statement can be dismissed. “Kids need to learn to accept and celebrate each other"s differences, up to and including the way that different cultures dress.” That’s great and all but that’s not how it is. Uniforms solve problems that arise from the inability to be accepting of others, in addition to some other things. “Some religions have strict rules about what is and is not considered acceptable dress, and school uniforms may not always fall in line with those religious requirements.” The benefits of uniforms completely outweigh this very rare case. “For some parents, being able to purchase clothing at the beginning of the school year that adheres to the uniform code is a financial relief.” Indeed. “being forced to purchase specific clothing infringes upon their kids" right to a free education” Lolwut [1] http://www.unr.edu...

  • PRO

    However, if they were in non-school uniform, said...

    school uniforms

    First of all, you've totally disregarded the duration of my arguments which can only make me assume you have none and you're hoping for the best here. Okay, if it's around "85 then that's you covered for the whole year, providing they've bought the correct size. It's not like you have to buy a brand new uniform every week. Since when is school a place for a child to feel special and different? This isn't heaven. School is a place for kids to LEARN and get an education. And as I said before, if kids wear non-school uniform everyday, it will distract the kids from learning because they'll be looking at what all their friends are wearing. And as I also said before, if non-school uniform is worn everyday, the higher class kids WILL bully the lower class kids because they're not wearing "branded clothes" I'm 14 years old; I've seen it with my own eyes. You will be able to pin-point a child easier if they are wearing the exact same attire; say you're a teacher and an accident happened; a young man got lost; the police ask you "Hey, what was the child wearing?" You could easily reply "Oh, he's wearing school uniform" The police would look at the uniform and it'd totally narrow down the search. However, if they were in non-school uniform, said accident happened and the police asked you "Hey, what was that kid wearing" we all know you'd be like "Erm, it was like something blue maybe? Not too sure" Is that helping the police? NO. Also, if you've already acknowledged that you agree with the statement, why is it you're trying to question said statement even though you've just said you've agreed with it. C-O-N-T-R-A-D-I-C-T-O-R. You know what that spells, right? Yeah, you can express yourself through clothing, but OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL. At school, the way you're supposed to express yourself is by excelling at the subjects you do. As said above and in the previous argument, kids who can afford the branded clothes will bully those who can't afford them. Wearing the same attire means no one will ever know if you have branded clothes or not, therefore preventing bullying. Also, the kids represent the school. Them walking around in non-school uniform isn't exactly doing that, is it? For Round 3, I want you to respond to ALL my arguments this time, not just one or two that you could barely think of responses for.

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/school-uniforms/23/
    • score
      BM25 score: 27.32
      school: 13.88
      conclusion: 7.94 (boost 1.50, idf 4.16, tfNorm 1.27)
      premises: 5.38 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.86)
      sourceText: 0.57 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.14)
      uniforms: 13.44
      conclusion: 11.45 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.27)
      sourceText: 1.98 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.04)
  • PRO

    I dont think it is really for free promotion of the...

    School Uniforms

    I dont think it is really for free promotion of the school itself, it is a way for the school to make sure the students are staying organized and neat. It also makes the school look better but not in a promotional way. I think they are also for the students to feel accepted and make more friends in a better environment.

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/School-Uniforms/77/
    • score
      BM25 score: 27.28
      school: 13.81
      conclusion: 7.94 (boost 1.50, idf 4.16, tfNorm 1.27)
      premises: 5.31 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.84)
      sourceText: 0.56 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.12)
      uniforms: 13.47
      conclusion: 11.45 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.27)
      sourceText: 2.02 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.07)
  • PRO

    Therefore they would desire well known labels to conform...

    All schools should have uniforms

    Before I begin I would like to clarify your position. When you assert that schools shouldn't have official uniforms with labels are you suggesting that they instead have guidelines that allow students to wear non branded uniforms with no logos or have students wearing casual personal attire? With the latter cost can still be significant as students are generally vying for attention or social standing. Therefore they would desire well known labels to conform to their defined social groups or convey a specific aspect of their identity. If certain students couldn't fulfill the expectations of their peers or are only able to afford undefined, nondescript brands there would be an increase in disparity which can be a platform for ridicule. Currently school uniforms can be altered, recycled or purchased second hand which can limit costs. Regardless of where the branded uniform is purchased (either first or second hand) there is often little difference indicating its origin and a student's financial status isn't revealed. In addition logos and specific colors can identify a school. When worn correctly school uniforms can present to wider society an image for the school which can encourage enrollment while increasing the institution's reputation. This uniformity can be useful on excursions as students are easily identifiable, this can be specifically useful with primary school children as they may become lost. Uniforms can also provide increased safety in school zones by serving as a reminder to drivers and crossing guards while increasing visibility. It is often cited that schools stifle creativity and while I must concede to this aspect of the argument. Self expression on the basis of clothes can be shallow and establishing general school guidelines while cheaper won't remedy the loss of creativity. Self-expression and creativity can be expressed through a variety of activities or outlets and ultimately the conformity encouraged in school is simple preparation for professional environments.

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/All-schools-should-have-uniforms/1/
    • score
      BM25 score: 27.19
      school: 5.93
      premises: 5.38 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.86)
      sourceText: 0.56 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.11)
      uniforms: 21.26
      conclusion: 9.10 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.01)
      premises: 10.13 (idf 5.96, tfNorm 1.70)
      sourceText: 2.03 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.08)
  • PRO

    In Long Beach, CA, after two years of a district-wide K-8...

    Should Students Have To Wear Mandatory Uniforms

    School uniforms may deter crime and increase student safety. In Long Beach, CA, after two years of a district-wide K-8 mandatory uniform policy, reports of assault and battery in the district's schools decreased by 34%, assault with a deadly weapon dropped by 50%, fighting incidents went down by 51%, sex offenses were cut by 74%, robbery dropped by 65%, possession of weapons (or weapon "look-alikes") decreased by 52%, possession of drugs went down by 69%, and vandalism was lowered by 18%. (M. Sue Stanley, "School Uniforms and Safety," Education and Urban Society, Aug. 1996) A 2012 peer-reviewed study found that one year after Sparks Middle School in Nevada instituted a uniform policy, school police data showed a 63% drop in police log reports, and decreases were also noted in gang activity, student fights, graffiti, property damage, and battery. (Claudene Wharton, "College of Education Researchers Conduct Study on Impacts of School Uniforms," unr.edu, Apr. 23, 2013) A 2010 peer-reviewed study found that schools with uniform policies had 12% fewer firearm-related incidents and 15% fewer drug-related incidents than schools without uniforms. (Seunghee Han, "A Mandatory Uniform Policy in Urban Schools: Findings from the School Survey on Crime and Safety: 2003-04," International Journal of Education Policy and Leadership, 2010) A 2007 peer-reviewed study found that, in schools with historically higher rates of sexual violence, sexual attacks were less likely if uniform policies were in place. (J. Scott Granberg-Rademacker, Jeffrey Bumgarner, and Avra Johnson, "Do School Violence Policies Matter? An Empirical Analysis of Four Approaches to Reduce School Violence," Southwest Journal of Criminal Justice, Spring 2007) School uniforms also prevent students from concealing weapons under baggy clothing, make it easier to keep track of students on field trips, and make intruders on campus more visible. Frank Quatrone, superintendent in the Lodi district of New Jersey, stated in Feb. 2011 that "When you have students dressed alike, you make them safer. If someone were to come into a building, the intruder could easily be recognized." (John A. Gavin, "Schools Find Stricter Rules, Uniforms Can Lessen Bullying," northjersey.com, Feb. 8, 2011) Wearing uniforms enhances school pride, unity, and community spirit. A 2007 study from Oxford Brookes University in the United Kingdom found that uniforms "often directly contributed to a feeling of school pride." Christopher P. Clouet, Superintendent of the New London, CT school district, stated that "the wearing of uniforms contributes to school pride." A 2002 study of over 1,000 Texas middle school students found that students in uniform "reported significantly more positive perceptions of belonging in their school community than reported by students in the standard dress group." Arnold Goldstein, PhD, head of the Center for Research on Aggression at Syracuse University, stated that uniforms help troubled students feel they have the support of a community: "There is a sense of belonging." A 2007 peer-reviewed study found that after uniforms were introduced, "Teachers perceived an increase in the level of respect, caring, and trust... throughout the school" and said "students are made to feel 'important' and as if they are a part of a team by wearing a uniform." (John A. Huss, "The Role of School Uniforms in Creating an Academically Motivating Climate: Do Uniforms Influence Teacher Expectations," Journal of Ethnographic and Qualitative Research, 2007)

  • PRO

    Schools are either privately run or government run...

    Students should wear uniforms

    My opponent says that students should not be forced to wear uniforms because if violates the first amendment. This is not true. Schools are either privately run or government run institutions that have the primary function to teach students about well rounded subjects such as mathematics, science, history and so forth. When you attend school you lose several of your rights. For example, the 2nd amendment states that all citizens should have to right to bear arms. Should students be able to carry guns on campus based on the second amendment? Are high schools violating our rights? Are Jr.high schools violating our rights? Of course not. The first amendment also gives us the right to say just about anything we want, does that mean I can go around a school and use derogatory terms when speaking to people of different races, genders, and sexual orientation? I may be allowed to use the word, N*gger, K*ke, and F*ggot on the streets and it would be a violation of my rights as an American if I were forced to stop but in a Schools are either privately run or government run institutions that have the primary function to teach students about well rounded subjects such as mathematics, science, history and so forth. When you attend school you lose several of your rights. For example, the 2nd amendment states that all citizens should have to right to bear arms. Should students be able to carry guns on campus based on the second amendment? Are high schools violating our rights? Are Jr.high schools violating our rights? Of course not. The first amendment also gives us the right to say just about anything we want, does that mean I can go around a school and use derogatory terms when speaking to people of different races, genders, and sexual orientation? I may be allowed to use the word, N*gger, K*ke, and F*ggot on the streets and it would be a violation of my rights as an American if I were forced to stop but in a school it shouldn't be tolerated and teachers have every right to punish me for using such language. In conclusion many of our rights as citizens are curtailed when we enroll in the public and private institutions of schools who enact and enforce certain policies to make schools have an effective learning environment. I claim that schools need to have uniforms to instill good discipline in students. It makes students look proffesional and forces them to take good care of their uniform as if it were their work clothes. When students are forced to take responsibility of how they look they look more proffesional. When students dress proffesionally and conservatively they tend to be more focused in school and perform better. I agree that students can experience bullying at schools with uniforms. That I acknowledge, but the Pros outweigh the Cons regarding forcing students to wear school uniforms.

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/Students-should-wear-uniforms/1/
    • score
      BM25 score: 27.18
      school: 5.48
      premises: 4.92 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.70)
      sourceText: 0.56 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.11)
      uniforms: 21.70
      conclusion: 10.05 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.12)
      premises: 9.58 (idf 5.96, tfNorm 1.61)
      sourceText: 2.07 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.12)
  • PRO

    I believe that school uniforms will give students one...

    Should Uniforms be Required in Public Schools

    Okay, 9spaceking. Here goes my logic. "Furthermore some students feel like it limits and attacks their right to expression." Seeing as this is a constitutional right, this is very important to address. In the case of Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District, the Supreme Court sided with Tinker. This is because the school attempted to deny their right to expression when they were wearing armbands to protest the Vietnam War. Uniforms, however, do not attack a students right to self expression. Students can express themselves through bows, hairstyles, jewelry (necklaces, bracelets, ect.) headbands, and styles of ties, as the Supreme Court made clear to be allowed, so long as it didn't hinder the educational process. They can also express themselves in the classroom by how they answer, who they talk to, what they research, and how they go about presentations. Clothing is not the only way to self-expression. Also, your first source states, "Indeed, as the Daily News reported last Monday [April 2002], more and more public schools are requiring or encouraging students to wear clothing of standardized colors and styles-uniforms, basically-and there's been nary a peep of protest." Kids who have been wearing uniforms for their whole schooling experience do not have a problem with it. "Unfortunately, wearing the same thing does not mean being equals in these bullies' minds." I did explain how just because you are wearing the same thing does not mean that you won't get bullied. I do understand that kids will find something to put someone down over. I believe that school uniforms will give students one less thing to be bullied over. Bullying will not end. Ever. Nothing will change that. Not even my amazing uniforms. *Haha* My friend was bullied because she was uncomfortable wearing spandex shorts to play volleyball in. This goes against the school dress code, yet it was a uniform. The school does not regulate the dress code at all. Due to bullying by the team and coaches, she felt forced to quit. "But with uniforms, students become distracted from school and worry about their self-image ever so more based on their uniform." This is exactly the opposite. Kids with less money, or not an appealing body type, don't have to worry about how they can't afford or fit into the most popular styles of clothing. Uniforms level the playing field of clothes. Besides, "More than 90 percent of girls -15 to 17 years- want to change at least one aspect of their physical appearance, with body weight ranking the highest." (http://www.heartofleadership.org...) "80% of children who are 10 years old are afraid of being fat." (http://www.pbs.org...). The list continues on and on with how many students feel pressured to be in the "in" crowd, while students that aren't popular feel an overwhelming sense of disappointment and dissatisfaction with themselves. Clothing is one of the biggest factors of peer pressure that I, personally, see. By implementing uniforms, kids will look the same and not be pressured to buy the biggest brand names. "Girls and boys can be equally hot in school uniforms. Students still gonna stare at each other in love regardless of what their wear." I do understand that. I do believe, however, that it is unacceptable to wear shorts that barely cover your underwear, sometimes not even, and see through shirts, as is the case in my school, so uniforms will help with the provocations. "Not all work requires uniforms. For those that don't require uniforms, using uniforms will decrease the students' abilities to chose their clothing wisely." I do believe that uniforms will allow kids to understand what is acceptable in the professional world. Just because you go to school in a uniform does that mean that you will not get practice on the weekends. We don't give people privileges just because one day they will need to learn how to use them responsibly. Also, it is possible to have free dress days once a month. Other statistics to promote school uniform can be found here: http://www.statisticbrain.com... and http://kids.lovetoknow.com... . I've had a lot of fun debating with you. Good luck on your rebuttal. I hope to hear from you soon.

  • PRO

    There are many constraints already placed on ones.Any...

    School Uniforms

    Main Argument 2: School Garments Sub Argument 2: At the end of the day school is primarily a place of learning. The garments worn should be reflective of that. Clothing should be respectful and conservative falling in the lines of the schools dress code. There are many constraints already placed on ones.Any sort of gang related identity or markings would not be an issue. In addition baggy clothing to used to hide weapons, drugs or pregnancy would make the lives of teens more transparent and less hidden from adults. School garment Definition: http://i.word.com...

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/School-Uniforms/28/
    • score
      BM25 score: 27.15
      school: 13.68
      conclusion: 7.94 (boost 1.50, idf 4.16, tfNorm 1.27)
      premises: 5.18 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.79)
      sourceText: 0.55 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.10)
      uniforms: 13.47
      conclusion: 11.45 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.27)
      sourceText: 2.02 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.07)
  • PRO

    There is some ghetto neighborhoods, where violence is...

    School Uniforms

    It is not striping away their freedom, it is simply limiting it in order for kids to focus and receive a great education. We are talking about the futures doctors, lawyers etc. . Not everyone lives in this rich neighborhoods. There is some ghetto neighborhoods, where violence is present everyday and if there were to be free dress, colors would be worn to categorize kids into gangs or "cliques". Causing violence between "Rivals". Which many parents would not approve of. Kids go to school to learn, to receive an education. At the beginning of school, forms are sent out, stating the Uniform policy the school has. So technically it is not against the law if the parent signs that consent form. We are not all the same. Some students are afraid of bullies and will not fight back even if they had the chance to. You have to be able to put yourself in the shoes of a kid and realize that some are sensitive, and bullying can lead to them harming themselves. Although you might think we should teach them to defend their selves, not all children minds think alike. Some of them actually begin to believe what bullies say is true, bringing their self esteem down. . We are not speaking of the clothes that can be worn in public, yet we are speaking of an area where many kids are present everyday. Exposing clothing should not be worn in a There is some ghetto neighborhoods, where violence is present everyday and if there were to be free dress, colors would be worn to categorize kids into gangs or "cliques". Causing violence between "Rivals". Which many parents would not approve of. Kids go to school to learn, to receive an education. At the beginning of school, forms are sent out, stating the Uniform policy the school has. So technically it is not against the law if the parent signs that consent form. We are not all the same. Some students are afraid of bullies and will not fight back even if they had the chance to. You have to be able to put yourself in the shoes of a kid and realize that some are sensitive, and bullying can lead to them harming themselves. Although you might think we should teach them to defend their selves, not all children minds think alike. Some of them actually begin to believe what bullies say is true, bringing their self esteem down. . We are not speaking of the clothes that can be worn in public, yet we are speaking of an area where many kids are present everyday. Exposing clothing should not be worn in a school. Think of an International school, that i currently attend. We have grader 6-12 here. If you knew your 6th grader came to school seeing seniors in exposing clothing you would not approve of the schools idea of freedom of expression. Again we are speaking of children. Many children feel left out. They do not think the way older teens would think. We are not speaking of grown adults but of children again.

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/School-Uniforms/61/
    • score
      BM25 score: 27.14
      school: 13.61
      conclusion: 7.94 (boost 1.50, idf 4.16, tfNorm 1.27)
      premises: 5.11 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.77)
      sourceText: 0.56 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.13)
      uniforms: 13.52
      conclusion: 11.45 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.27)
      sourceText: 2.07 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.13)
  • PRO

    I think that people make first impressions based on...

    School Uniforms

    I think that people make first impressions based on clothing and the way you represent yourself. If a guest, comes to your school or you take a field trip, you're representing your school with nicely dressed/respectable looking people. School is supposed to prepare you for the work force, which has dress requirments and won't conform just for you.

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/School-Uniforms/63/
    • score
      BM25 score: 27.08
      school: 13.80
      conclusion: 7.94 (boost 1.50, idf 4.16, tfNorm 1.27)
      premises: 5.31 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.84)
      sourceText: 0.55 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.07)
      uniforms: 13.28
      conclusion: 11.45 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.27)
      sourceText: 1.83 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 1.88)

CON

  • CON

    If parents think a school and its rules are terrible,...

    Private Schools Should Have Their Students Wear Uniforms

    No, my response was indeed relevant. My very first acceptance post stated that I will take the side of schools deciding for themselves (via the free market). I'm sorry that your copy/paste response was not tailored for my counter-argument. Also, you don't seem to understand the fundamentals behind a free-market education system, which is what private schools are. If parents think a school and its rules are terrible, they don't send their kids there. The school administration can write the guidebook, but if the parents don't approve, the school will not get any students. The topic of this debate was not whether or not school uniforms have benefits for the students or not. It was if private schools should have their students wear uniforms. It's a question of what is good for the school. A school without any students isn't not a good school. The free market is the only deciding factor in this question. Many private schools do implement uniforms, and many do not.

  • CON

    A study done proves that most bullying incidents occur as...

    Schools should not require their students to wear uniforms

    My first contention is that uniforms improve schools overall-- Uniforms, according to a study done by Virginia Draa, assistant professor at Youngstown State University, found that uniforms in schools increased attendance, graduate numbers, and decreased suspension rates. What we can derive from this information is he following. Schools in which uniforms are institutionalized have students who are more academically productive, disciplined and good citizens of the world, and are studying in a safer environment. Children are the future. They are the future business, political, and social leaders of our world. It is absurd to call that a problem in any way. My second contention is that uniforms are the best solution to bullying-- Bullying is a large problem in schools all over the world. Bullying leads to depression, lower self esteem, academic problems, and in many cases suicide. A study done proves that most bullying incidents occur as result of clothing or apparel. The study shows that kids who may not be able to afford expensive designer clothing become easy targets. Instituting uniforms completely solves this problem. The result of This is a lower in bullying and crime in schools. This helps students focus on their academic, spiritual, and self goals without the distraction of bullies, or worry about their appearance. My third and final contention is that uniforms are good for the economy-- The popular assumption, as my opponent stated, is that using uniforms would give a blow to the textile industry. However it is absolutely incorrect. When uniforms are put in place families must spend money on the uniforms to wear to school. Each school, district, or state may have a different sponsor who provides the uniforms. That boosts those companies' sales. But, children don't only attend school all day, they also have outside activities or just daily wear. The market for textiles doubles! Uniforms and other after school wear. Not only this, but schools and families will result in a more disposable income. Taxpayers will get more out of their schools because the schools will be spending money on improving education, rather than disciplinary measures. All in all, taxpayers get tenant they deserve, and the economy is actually boosted. As my clear reasoning and evidence has proven, uniforms are indeed good for children, our economy, but most of all the world. It would be absurd to call uniforms bad.

  • CON

    They're bullying Brenda because they don't like her. ......

    Schools should have uniforms

    Rebuttals "decrease in bullying and teasing" So like no. Not at all. Having been in school in the past I can say that this is not true at all. No matter what kids are going to bully each other. they aren't bullying because they don't like Brenda's clothes. They're bullying Brenda because they don't like her. A nerd they call her. It's just ammo for their guns. "Many experts believe..." These are the type of things you have to cite. There is no merit to your claims without proper citation. "Buying a few school uniforms instead of a new school wardrobe every fall is much more economical." The average school uniform is $249[1]. Yep super economical. Every time you go to school for another year unless you're some rich chick with all the money in the world you don't buy a completely new wardrobe. You throw out a few stuff that's old and doesn't fit anymore and but some new shirts and pants. The average amount of money spent on clothes per month for children is $5[2]. So if you do the math it comes don to much less than the ridiculous price of They're bullying Brenda because they don't like her. A nerd they call her. It's just ammo for their guns. "Many experts believe..." These are the type of things you have to cite. There is no merit to your claims without proper citation. "Buying a few school uniforms instead of a new school wardrobe every fall is much more economical." The average school uniform is $249[1]. Yep super economical. Every time you go to school for another year unless you're some rich chick with all the money in the world you don't buy a completely new wardrobe. You throw out a few stuff that's old and doesn't fit anymore and but some new shirts and pants. The average amount of money spent on clothes per month for children is $5[2]. So if you do the math it comes don to much less than the ridiculous price of uniforms. "positively to students' behavior. " So no. When I had uniforms at school me as well as plenty of other students were pissed. Nothing positive about that. "fashion trends and status symbol clothing." Never has anyone ever said "Teacher, I can't focus on my test because of Billy's shirt." Fashion trends aren't brought up in schools. The most girls at least may be distracted by beauty related is their make-up. Girls get late for class and miss their buses because of that not deciding whether to wear the pink shirt or the red shirt. [1]http://www.statisticbrain.com... [2]http://www.statisticbrain.com...

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/Schools-should-have-uniforms/3/
    • score
      BM25 score: 26.57
      school: 5.67
      premises: 5.11 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.77)
      sourceText: 0.55 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.10)
      uniforms: 20.91
      conclusion: 10.05 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.12)
      premises: 8.79 (idf 5.96, tfNorm 1.48)
      sourceText: 2.06 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.11)
  • CON

    While most kids are getting bullied for what their...

    Should uniforms be at schools

    While most kids are getting bullied for what their wearing,school uniforms are not going to solve any bullying problems. Some kids don't want to wear the same thing as their bully or their friend or maybe the meanest girl in school. This goes for all the students that agree with me.

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/Should-uniforms-be-at-schools/1/
    • score
      BM25 score: 26.56
      school: 5.66
      premises: 5.12 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.77)
      sourceText: 0.55 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.07)
      uniforms: 20.89
      conclusion: 10.05 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.12)
      premises: 8.81 (idf 5.96, tfNorm 1.48)
      sourceText: 2.03 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.08)
  • CON

    as for conforming just to you, most schools do have a...

    School Uniforms

    I don't think school should be treated the way you would a job. This is a crucial time for young people to develop their sense of selves. While I do agree you should present yourself professionally in a work environment, not all jobs adhere to such strict dress codes, I don't think school should be one of the places that does. & as for conforming just to you, most schools do have a dress code barring showing of midriff, shoulders, and thighs. As long as you're covered, I think you should be allowed to wear casual things, like jeans & t-shirts

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/School-Uniforms/63/
    • score
      BM25 score: 26.51
      school: 13.23
      conclusion: 7.94 (boost 1.50, idf 4.16, tfNorm 1.27)
      premises: 4.74 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.64)
      sourceText: 0.55 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.07)
      uniforms: 13.28
      conclusion: 11.45 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.27)
      sourceText: 1.83 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 1.88)
  • CON

    I apologize for the forfeit in the last round; I lost...

    Private Schools Should Have Their Students Wear Uniforms

    I apologize for the forfeit in the last round; I lost track of time. To start out, I would like to refute my opponents' arguments and points. First off, my opponent stated that "uniforms may increase a student's self esteem." I disagree, firstly because this is an assumption, secondly because this is a wrong assumption. I currently attend a private school, and we wear uniforms. Let me tell you, they are the ugliest things around. Plus, they're extremely itchy and uncomfortable. Therefore, uniforms actually decrease self esteem. Secondly, my opponent stated that "many kids are discouraged by the fact that they [...] can't afford some of the clothing other kids can." I disagree with this, mainly because students' parents can hardly afford uniforms. At the school I attend, a 100% polyester (cheap) shirt goes for around $70, 100% polyester shorts for about $80, and our formal uniforms, altogether, around $250, once again 100% polyester. Therefore, uniforms are not only uncomfortable, but they are not the solution to my opponents' point that kids can't afford some clothing since "some clothing" means uniforms. Thirdly, my opponent stated that "uniforms put all kids at the same level." I disagree with this for two reasons"they don't, and that it's not good to be at the same level. First reason: Uniforms do not put kids at the same level whatsoever. There are plenty other kids that separate the "level" of kids such as their wealth, their athletic abilities, their artistic abilities, their looks, their weight, etc. Secondly reason: It isn't good for kids to be at the same level. If everybody were at the same level, then there would be no competition, and no progress would be made. This is not an assumption; it is backed by evidence. Think of communist countries. There, the government tries to put everybody at the same level. But does that work? No! Therefore, students should not be put at the same level, and uniforms don't even put students at the same level. Fourth, my esteemed colleague said "By implementing uniforms confidence is boosted and negative peer pressure is eliminated." He also stated a study where over 75% of schools that implemented uniforms had a drop in peer pressure, but this is, in my opinion, a false cause, because how would uniforms eliminate peer pressure? Peer pressure and uniforms don't even relate to each other. If by peer pressure, my opponent meant bullying, then they don't eliminate bullying, because, as I stated above, there are still other things such as their wealth, their athletic abilities, their artistic abilities, their looks, their weight, etc. Therefore, uniforms do not eliminate "peer pressure" or stop bullying in any way, shape, or form. Onto my opponent's second argument. My colleague's entire second argument says that "Clothes can be a huge distraction when you are in the classroom", and that "Uniforms improve learning by not allowing kids to be distracted". I disagree because there are tons of other distractions in the classroom involving people. How about that ugly girl with the huge moles who never had, doesn't have, and never will have a boyfriend? She's a distraction! And how about that hot girl with the huge boobs? She's a distraction! What about when other students ask you for a pencil, pen or paper? That's a distraction! And what about when that misbehaved kid is always cracking jokes at the wrong time? That's also a distraction! Therefore, uniforms are not by any means the solution to eliminating distractions. My opponent's third argument now. He said: "Uniforms show that everyone there with you is part of your school. It shows you are all part of a team. It promotes school spirit and shows that everyone there is "on the same side". [4] This togetherness helps to eliminate division among students at the school and reduces bullying; giving a sense of community is beneficial to the mental well being of a student." Uniforms do represent the school, and show that you are a part of that school, as my opponent stated. But, the only thing uniforms are is a marketing scheme. Uniforms have the name of the school or logo printed clearly on them, and people see that logo, and think "Hey, I want to go to that school!" Even the director (principal) at my school admits that they are for advertising! Therefore, my opponent's argument about "school spirit" is invalid because uniforms represent more "marketing spirit" instead. I have limited characters, and do not wish to use all of them up, so my refutations from here on out will be shorter. Number five, I have already refuted above. It is about bullying. Number six, I have also somewhat refuted. Students can express themselves through makeup, bands, pins, and t heir personality. Personality plays a large part in self-expression. His argument seven is a false cause. How do uniforms affect crime rates? They don't. He has only provided evidence, but no reasoning to prove that it is a false cause. His closing statement is that school uniforms have helped to improve schools, but, according to my refutations, they do not do any of the benefit that he has stated. Now, I would like to bring up a few arguments of my own. Private schools should not have their students wear uniforms because they are expensive. My opponent seems to think that uniforms are the solution to all expenses of "in" clothes, but look at the facts. A complete uniform can cost up to $250! And this is one that is made out of cheap material. They break, seams come undone, and you have to buy more uniforms. Soon that $250 becomes many thousands of dollars. Private schools should not have their students wear uniforms because they are uncomfortable. Most uniforms are made out of 80-100% polyester. If you are not aware of what polyester is, according to dictionary.com, it is defined as a fabric made from such textile fibers. Polyester, because it is made up of textile fibers, is one of the most uncomfortable fabrics you can wear. Since uniforms are made out of polyester, they are highly uncomfortable, so we can't have our kids walking around all day, itching, scratching, and complaining about their uncomfortable, cheap uniforms sold at scandalously high prices. Now, I would like to weigh the impacts. On their side, their arguments boil down to less bullying and benefiting kids, all of which are false, as pointed out in my refutations. On my side, it boils down to the fact that uniforms are uncomfortable and pricey. Voters, would you want kids walking around in uniforms that are not worth the polyester they're printed on? I sure wouldn't think so. Thank you, and please vote for the Con side of this debate.

  • CON

    R2: Does it help schools? ... [1]...

    Puclic Schools Should Require Uniforms

    ~~Rebuttels~~ R1: Does uniforms save money? My opponent states that manditory school uniforms would help the parents financialy by saving them money. However this is simply untrue because in after having to manage things like books, sports, building costs, and utilities. The schools would not have enough money to fund uniforms. As a result taxes would have to be raised, and the parents would still be paying the same (if not more) for clothing. These clothing costs plus extra clothes for after school and weekends would end up costing them more. This would hurt the parents escpecially the parents of multiple children. It would be way better to just leave it the parents to buy regular clothes for their children. R2: Does it help schools? It probably would help schools a little, however if one thinks for a minute (particularly on my first rebuttel) you will see that it would hurt parents. Now for some of the poorest families in this pretty ruff economy they can barely afford books and supplies. How are they to have the money to buy extra sets of clothes? It would just cause problems for the families of America and do more harm then good. ~~My Arguments~~ C1: Forcing kids to dress alike will only help create more followers than leaders. My first contention will be about the harm done to students capibilities both during school years and after school years. It really would hurt the students capibilities. I mean think about what it would be like to be told what to do in every aspect of ones life, and then all of the sudden being put into a situation where one has to make ones own discisions. School uniforms set some students up for failure when it comes to making their own decisions about who they are and how they're going to present themselves to the world. It would deminish individual responsability and would foster the attitude that the kids would be drones that would be told what to do in every part of their lives and would ultimately create more followers the leaders. C2: Uniforms are unconstitutional. Since public schools are owned and ran by the government then they are subject to the same laws that govern the governmnet that owns and funds them. The right to free expression is a first amendment right and also a fundemental right that the government can't take away at anytime [1]. By inforcing manditory uniforms the governmnet would be trouncing on the constitutional rights of students everywhere and that would be wrong. I will now await my opponent's response. [1] http://en.wikipedia.org...

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/Puclic-Schools-Should-Require-Uniforms/1/
    • score
      BM25 score: 26.47
      school: 5.22
      premises: 4.66 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.61)
      sourceText: 0.56 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.13)
      uniforms: 21.24
      conclusion: 9.10 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.01)
      premises: 10.04 (idf 5.96, tfNorm 1.69)
      sourceText: 2.10 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.15)
  • CON

    Some children may be allergic to the material used to...

    Uniforms in public schools

    Honestly, school uniforms suck. Many people think that they are wonderful, but really, they're not. Here's why: 1. Itchy and uncomfortable 2. Expensive 3. Some children may be allergic to the material used to make the uniform 4. (This is a big one...) YOU CANNOT EXPRESS YOUR EMOTIONS OR PERSONALITY!!!! 5. You wouldn't be able to tell any one apart from behind! ("Clara!" Sheila yelled. *girl Sheila thinks is Clara slowly turns around* (Not Clara but the Wicked Witch of the West) -(o_o)- "Sorry...") 6. Sure, in schools stuff should be neat and orderly, but not SO orderly that you can't tell anyone apart... I mean, come on. My school has been around a little longer than 1987, we have never had uniforms, and hopefully never will. (No latex, no polyester)

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/Uniforms-in-public-schools/1/
    • score
      BM25 score: 26.42
      school: 5.06
      premises: 4.51 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.56)
      sourceText: 0.54 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.06)
      uniforms: 21.36
      conclusion: 10.05 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.12)
      premises: 9.29 (idf 5.96, tfNorm 1.56)
      sourceText: 2.02 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.07)
  • CON

    One thing you need to make more sense and use proper...

    why should be uniforms needed in schools

    One thing you need to make more sense and use proper grammar. Another thing is school uniforms are a waste of money and why would want to wear uniforms there drab and super dull to look at.

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/why-should-be-uniforms-needed-in-schools/1/
    • score
      BM25 score: 26.42
      school: 4.77
      premises: 4.28 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.48)
      sourceText: 0.49 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 1.86)
      uniforms: 21.65
      conclusion: 9.10 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.01)
      premises: 10.54 (idf 5.96, tfNorm 1.77)
      sourceText: 2.01 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.06)
  • CON

    well, it would be the best option becasue then parents...

    School Uniforms

    well, it would be the best option becasue then parents wouldnt have to worry about spending more on school unifroms, and just worry about buying regualer clothes

    • https://www.debate.org/debates/School-Uniforms/77/
    • score
      BM25 score: 26.42
      school: 12.95
      conclusion: 7.94 (boost 1.50, idf 4.16, tfNorm 1.27)
      premises: 4.45 (idf 2.89, tfNorm 1.54)
      sourceText: 0.56 (boost 0.20, idf 1.32, tfNorm 2.12)
      uniforms: 13.47
      conclusion: 11.45 (boost 1.50, idf 6.00, tfNorm 1.27)
      sourceText: 2.02 (boost 0.20, idf 4.87, tfNorm 2.07)