Creative Writing - Junior Secondary 1 - Debate/Argumentative writing

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STEPS

TEACHER’S ACTIVITY

LEARNERS ACTIVITY

1

INTRODUCTION

The teacher revises the previous lesson and introduces the new topic by reviewing the rules in writing a debate/argumentative essay

Learners observe, learn and participate

2

EXPLICIT INSTRUCTION/TEACHER MODELLING

The teacher guides the learners in writing in support of the debate topic, ‘There should be limits on screen time for teenagers’

**Debate Topic: There Should Be Limits on Screen Time for Teenagers**

Good day Mr Chairman, Panel of Judges, Ladies and gentlemen. My name is Ajeyomi Adejoke. I strongly support the motion that ‘there should be limits on screen time for teenagers’, and I will demonstrate why this is necessary for their physical, mental, and social well-being.

Firstly, excessive screen time negatively impacts physical health. Many teenagers spend hours glued to their screens, which often leads to a sedentary lifestyle. This lack of physical activity contributes to problems like obesity, poor posture, and eye strain. According to a study by the World Health Organization, teenagers who spend more than three hours a day on screens are at higher risk of developing long-term health issues like back pain and vision problems. Limiting screen time would encourage teens to engage in more physical activities, promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Secondly, mental health is severely affected by excessive screen time. Numerous studies have shown a strong link between heavy screen use and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. For instance, research from the American Academy of Pediatrics found that teenagers who spend over five hours a day on their devices are more likely to experience symptoms of depression. By setting reasonable limits on screen time, we can reduce the risk of these mental health challenges and encourage healthier habits like social interaction, exercise, and better sleep.

Furthermore, excessive screen time leads to social isolation. Teenagers who spend long hours online or on their devices often struggle to develop face-to-face communication skills and meaningful relationships. This isolation can hinder their emotional and social development, as they miss out on important opportunities to connect with peers in the real world. By limiting screen time, we are encouraging teenagers to engage more with their families, friends, and communities, helping them build essential social skills and stronger relationships.

Now, some may argue that screen time is necessary for education and staying connected in today’s digital world. While this is true, ‘balance is key’. Limiting screen time does not mean eliminating it altogether. Instead, it means ensuring that teenagers do not become overly dependent on their screens and have enough time for other enriching activities, such as reading, sports, or spending time outdoors.

In conclusion, setting limits on screen time for teenagers is essential for their overall well-being. It reduces the risk of physical and mental health problems, encourages better social interaction, and promotes a balanced, healthy lifestyle. As responsible adults, we must guide teenagers toward making healthy choices that will benefit them in the long run. Thank you.

Learners observe, learn and participate

3

EVALUATION

The Learners are asked to

1.   Outline the features of a debate

2.   Discuss the language of debate

- Learners observe, learn and participate

4

CLASS-WORK

Learners are asked to write the topic sentence of each paragraph in the debate-argumentative discussed in the class

Learners observe, learn and participate

5

ASSIGNMENT

Learners are asked to write in opposition to the debate topic, ‘All children should be immunized’

Learners participate

6

CONCLUSION

The teacher marks their books, corrects it and commends the Learners