Writing unit 10

Activity 10-A 

Read about this controversial topic 

"Banning cellphones in the classroom"

Cell phones are a part of daily life. We really can't live without them. But that doesn't mean they should be on all the time. There are certain situations when cell phones are definitely inappropriate. The classroom is one such place. In my opinion, cell phones should be in "off" mode as soon as students enter a classroom. I know that some people disagree with me, but their reasons are mostly based on faulty logic.

Some people argue that a cell phone is an educational tool. They say that students use cell phones to look up facts and information while they are in the classroom. According to this point of view, telling students not to use their phones is like telling them not to use a dictionary. Well, it's a nice idea in theory. But in reality, we all know that students mostly use their phones for texting, emailing, and social networking. Just look over their shoulder and you'll see they aren't doing any "research." That's just an excuse for wasting time. They should put the phone away and learn how to use an actual dictionary. It would be good for them.

It's true that some people need to be available to family members. At colleges and universities, for example, many adult students have children. And sometimes their children might have a legitimate reason for needing to contact them. So perhaps an exception should be made for students who are parents. But even in a real emergency, students should go outside the classroom to use their phones, even to send a text. It's too distracting to do it in the classroom.   

In conclusion, there aren't any good reasons for using cell phones in the classroom. Students should be required to turn them off before entering the room (parents excepted, of course). And under no circumstances should they be allowed to use their phones in the classroom. Those caught violating the rule should have their phone confiscated. If rules like this were enforced you'd see how quickly students comply. 

1. To conclude...

1. introduces an opinion
2. anticipates an opposing argument
3. summarises an opinion

2. In other words...

1. summarizes an opinion, 
2. introduces an example
3. anticipates an opposing argument.

3. It is my belief that...

1. summarizes an argument
2. introduces an opinion
3. makes a contrast

4. You might argue that...

1. anticipates an opposing argument
2. introduces an example
3. distinguishes fact and opinion

5. ...such as...

1. make an exception
2. summarizes an argument
3. introduces an example

1. 3        2. 1            3. 2            4. 1          5. 3     

Activity 10-B Writing

Based on the model, write a statement, evidence or declaration of opinion on one of the controversial topics given below. Use the words below and other words you know. Write it in four paragraphs: introduction, body (two paragraphs) and conclusion. Consider no less than 120 words. Don't forget to use transition words, vocabulary and the grammar learned in this unit.

The following are controversial topics. Choose one of them. 
1. Wearing uniforms at school
2. Banning certain books from school libraries
3. Enforcing "English only" policies

accommodate    comply   enforce   ensure   legitimate   policy   should    would

I believe         In my opinion        It is argued that           In conclusion

Reference:

This writing was taken from: 
Gaer, S. & Lynn, S (2014)  Project success 4: Writing 10. Pearson Education, Inc. 
It is to help students in the classroom. 
https://myenglishlab.pearson-intl.com/courses/content/1673123#/1673123