Please grade this essay on the SAT scoring scale of 2-12 (or 1-6). If possible try to give me some feedback. I know there are errors but I have posted exactly what I was able to get done in 25 minutes. The essay is from the Blue Book Test 10.
Prompt: Should heroes be defined as people who say what they think? (BB #10)
Heroes should be defined as people who not only have the courage to say what they think, but also have the bravery to defend their values and opinions. This assertion has been demonstrated in pervasive evidence from literature as well as real world situations. While some may argue that simply voicing your opinion is an act of bravery and courage, this claim would be specious in that it fails to capture the essence of being a hero – defending and protecting those who share your values.
Perhaps my argument is best demonstrated in the actions of the prominent historical figure Rosa Parks. As an African American woman living in a segregated country, Parks was constantly marginalized by the society she lived in. While her situation was analogous to that of many African Americans at the time, what set her apart was her ability to argue for hers and others’ human rights.
After a long day of work, as Parks was returning home on a bus, she refused to give up her seat to a Caucasian woman. For this act of rebellion, she was arrested. However, her arrest sparked unrest throughout the country. She eventually went on to become an activist for the right of African Americans all over the country. In doing this, not only did Parks defend her own values and rights but also fought for those being deprived of these basic rights which is what makes her a true hero.
In contrast to the example mentioned before, Mohsin Hamid’s novel The Reluctant Fundamentalist, offers the example of a character who fails to become a hero because of his inability to protect others. The protagonist, Changez, is a Pakistani working in a New York financial company. After the 9/11, his character suffers a great deal of prejudice in his workplace. While his boss, Jim, acknowledges that the situation is unjust, he never takes any action against it. Although he had the courage to speak out against something, he doesn’t prevent it.
In conclusion, I feel that a hero should primarily be given such a title based on actions instead of words, since actions require the most courage and bravery.
Good luck on Saturday.