<p>So, I tried writing my first essay based on an SAT prompt. I stayed within the time constraints, which was very foreign to me; I need to get better on my speed-writing. Anyways, could you look it over and tell me a ballpark score/areas of improvement?
It would be much appreciated!</p>
<p>Many people believe that our behavior should be consistent, that we should always be ourselves. They feel that we should not act one way with some people and another way with others. But is this right? Should our behavior always be consistent, or should we behave differently in different situations? Isn't behaving differently according to the people we are with or the situation we are in simply a matter of politeness and common sense?</p>
<p>Assignment: Should people change their behavior depending on what situation they are in? Plan and write an essay in which you develop your point of view on this issue. Support your position with reasoning and examples taken from your reading, studies, experience, or observations.</p>
<pre><code>Members of North American society are bombarded with messages from the media about how important it is to be yourself. However, being yourself does not necessarily mean behaving in a consistent manner in every sort of situation. Humans are not one-dimensional beings; it is natural for people to change their behavior depending on what situation they are in. This is evident through the differences in peoples attitudes to fulfill social standards, and the changes in behavior that occur to maintain power and control.
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<p>Sometimes, it is not socially acceptable to behave a certain way, and consequently a change in behavior is necessary. It is natural for one to behave in a relaxed fashion in situations where they feel comfortable, and vice versa; it is natural to behave cautiously in formal situations. For example, if a child is giggling and goofing off at home, it is perfectly acceptable; if the child does the same at church, it is inappropriate and frowned upon. To avoid being scolded, the child would probably be quiet and respectful when at church. People change their behavior by acting politely in order to fulfill social expectations.</p>
<pre><code>Changes in mannerisms are sometimes necessary to enforce authority. When a teacher is teaching a class, they must do certain things (such as speaking loudly and explaining rules) so that students understand that they are in charge. However, when they are with other teachers, they are peers, and they stop acting like they do when they instruct classes. If teachers were to treat their students as friends, the students would consequently cease to regard them as figures of authority. Teachers, amongst themselves, act as friends, but when they step in front of a class, it is vital that they change their behavior in order to make pupils aware of their power.
It is completely natural for people to change their behavior in different situations. There are many reasons why, including politeness and the enforcement of power. It would be absolutely obscene for a person with a highly regarded profession to go to work wearing sweatpants and a hoodie, but it would be perfectly acceptable for them to dress that way at home. People are expected to dress in different attire depending on the occasion, and the same concept applies to behavior.
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