any speech teachers here?

[pstokely]

could you give me some suggestions for this outline?

Title: Childhood Obesity Theories

Specific Purpose: To inform the class about rising childhood obesity rate theories developed by experts.

Central Idea: Experts have many theories about rising rates of obesity in children


Eric Tanner is a 10 year old who weighs 100 lbs, overweight for a child his age. Both of his parents have busy careers, his family rarely has meals together. Eric's school has eliminated recess fit in time to meet academic standards and prepare for standarized tests. Eric and his classmates have a weekly 50 minutes physical education class, which is probably the only physical activity most of the children get. Eric bus ride home from school is nearly 15 minutes, the school is too far for Eric to walk home from. Eric's favorite after school activity is video games on his Playstation. Eric has access to high calorie snack food and often substitutes them for dinner. Sometimes his parents have time to pick up a meal from McDonalds for him. Eric eats his meals in front of the television. Sounds familiar doesn't it. Eric is one of many increasing overweight children.

The rate of obese Americans under 18 years old is 15%, up 10% from percent two decades ago when the rate was 5%. 64% percent of American adults are overweight. The American Academy of Pedatrics now says obesity is the most common childhood medical condition. The World Health Organization has declared obesity a global epidemic.


Experts have many theories about rising rates of obesity in Children.

I. For instance, many experts have linked the eating habits of children to rising childhood obesity rates
A. Many experts blame soft drinks.
1. Many school districts have banned the sale of soft drinks through vending machines.
2. Many experts have recommendedchildren consume just one 12-once soft drink a day.
B. Experts are quick to point out fast food and junk food as causes of childhood obesity.
1. The restaraunt industry has been accused of marketing high calories meals to children for years
a. McDonalds has announced plans to decrease the amount of calories in its childrens meals.
b. Fast food has become popular as families become busier.
i. Parents have less time to prepare healthy meals and fast food has been seen as a quick meal.
ii. Families have less time to eat together.
2. Lawsuits have been failed by major fast food chains.

II. In addition to eating habits, many experts have linked a lack of physical activity in the lives of children to rising rates of childhood obesity.
A. Many experts blame a lack of physical activity programs in schools.
1. Many schools have eliminated eliminated recess and physical education programs.
2. Some distrists have begun efforts to combat obesity.
B. In addition to a lack of physical activities in schools, many experts see a lack of physical activities outside of school as a cause of childhood obesity.
1. 3 out of 5 children do not participate in physical activities outside of school.
C. Many experts have pointed out to the popularity of video games.
1. Video games have become replaced outdoor activities like bike riding, as after school activities.
2. New video games that involve actual physical activity has been introduced.
3. Children have choosen to play football on a screen instead of field.


In conclusion, experts have many theories about rising childhood obesity rates. They have been quick to link fast food and soft drinks as a source. Others have linked decreased physical activity in the lives of children, both in school and during free time. Children can learn healthy habits from their parents. Childhood obesity should not be taken lightly. Obese children are likely to end up as obese adults. Obese children are at risk for health complications like diabetes and depression. Obesity in children can be prevented if steps are taken early and should be. If the rate of childhood obesity continues to rise, emergency rooms will see more children with heart attacks than sports injuries. Obesity has become the most common preventable childhood medical condition.

Bibliography

Kelly, Katy "Clearing The Table" U.S. News & World Report 2. Feb 2004: 56

Spake, Amanda "The Future of Fatness" U.S. News & World Report 9. Feb 2004: 56

Sothern, Melinda S and Gordon, Stewart T. "Prevention of Obesity in Young Children: A Critical Challenge for Medical Professionals" Clinical Pediatrics Mar 2003 101-111

Sweeney, Nicole "As obesity grows, schools cut physical education" JS Online 24 Apr 2004. 25 Apr 2004 <http://www.jsonline.com/news/gen/apr04/224866.asp>

Power, Carla "Big Trobule" Newsweek 11. Aug 2003: 42