Claim: Students should spend their free time doing team sports after school.

Evidence: According to a Canadian study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, students who play team sports in grades 8-12 have less stress and depression as young adults (U.S. News & World Report).
Analysis: Why is this evidence important? How does the evidence connect to the claim?

1 answer

The evidence provided is significant because it shows a clear correlation between participation in team sports during formative teenage years and improved mental health outcomes in young adulthood. The study implies that engagement in these sports may foster skills such as teamwork, resilience, and social interaction, which can contribute to better emotional well-being.

This evidence directly supports the claim that students should spend their free time doing team sports after school by illustrating a tangible benefit—reduced stress and depression. By participating in team sports, students not only enjoy physical activity but also reap long-term psychological benefits. Thus, the evidence strengthens the argument that investing time in team sports can lead to healthier, happier individuals, encouraging schools and parents to prioritize athletic programs as valuable components of a student’s overall development.