DISCURSIVE ESSAY

TOPIC: Do you think in-person lessons are better than online education?
The debate between in-person lessons and online education is multifaceted, and
both approaches have their advantages and drawbacks. Let’s explore the pros and
cons of each:
In-Person Lessons: Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:

1. Social Interaction: In-person classes provide direct interaction with peers

and instructors. Students can engage in discussions, ask questions, and
collaborate on projects face-to-face.
2. Structured Environment: Physical classrooms offer a structured learning
environment. Regular schedules, classroom routines, and physical presence
contribute to better focus and discipline.
3. Hands-On Learning: Some subjects, such as lab sciences, arts, and
physical education, require hands-on experiences that are best facilitated in
person.
4. Networking Opportunities: In-person classes allow students to build
professional networks, connect with classmates, and participate in
extracurricular activities.

Disadvantages:

1. Time and Commute: Traveling to campus takes time and effort.

Commuting can be stressful, especially in crowded cities.
2. Fixed Schedule: In-person classes follow a fixed timetable, which may
clash with other commitments or personal schedules.
3. Limited Flexibility: Students have less flexibility in choosing when and
where to study. They must adhere to class timings.
4. Costs: Attending physical classes involves expenses related to
transportation, parking, and sometimes accommodation.

Online Education: Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages:

1. Flexibility: Online courses allow students to learn at their own pace. They
can access materials anytime, anywhere, making it convenient for working
professionals and those with family responsibilities.
 2. Cost-Effective: Online education often costs less than traditional in-person
programs. There are no commuting expenses, and some courses are even
tuition-free.

1. Diverse Learning Styles: Online platforms offer various formats (videos,

quizzes, discussion forums) that cater to different learning preferences.
2. Global Access: Students can enroll in courses from universities worldwide,
expanding their options.

Disadvantages:

1. Lack of Social Interaction: Online learning lacks the immediacy of face-to-

face interactions. Building relationships with peers and instructors can be
challenging.
2. Self-Discipline Required: Students need strong self-motivation and time
management skills to succeed in online courses.
3. Technical Challenges: Reliable internet access and familiarity with digital
tools are essential. Technical glitches can disrupt the learning process.
4. Isolation: Some students may feel isolated due to the absence of physical
presence and social activities.

Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between in-person and online education depends on
individual preferences, learning styles, and circumstances. Some students thrive in
traditional classrooms, while others excel in the flexibility of online learning. A
blended approach that combines the best of both worlds may be the ideal solution
for many learners.

TOPIC: Should social media be restricted for teenagers?

Let’s delve into the debate surrounding whether social media should be restricted
for teenagers. This topic is multifaceted, and both sides have valid arguments.
The Case for Restricting Social Media for Teens
1. Mental Health Concerns:
o Risk of Harm: Research indicates that excessive social media use can
negatively impact mental health. Issues like depression, anxiety, and
sleep disturbances have been associated with prolonged screen time.
 o Brain Development: Adolescents’ brains are highly sensitive during
ages 10 to 19. Frequent social media use may affect emotional
learning, impulse control, and self-regulation.
2. Disruption of Essential Activities:
o Sleep and Exercise: Excessive social media consumption can disrupt
essential activities like sleep and exercise. Teens may sacrifice sleep
or physical activity due to screen time.
o Academic Performance: Spending too much time online can
interfere with schoolwork and academic performance.
3. Content Exposure:
o Inappropriate Content: Teens are exposed to various content on
social media, including harmful material. Cyberbullying, self-harm
content, and unrealistic body standards can impact their well-being.
o Filtering Challenges: Filtering out detrimental content is challenging,
especially when platforms are vast and constantly evolving.

The Case for Allowing Social Media for Teens

1. Positive Connections:
o Social Interaction: Social media allows teens to connect with peers,
share experiences, and build relationships. It can combat feelings of
isolation.
o Interest-Based Communities: Teens can find like-minded
individuals, explore hobbies, and express themselves creatively.
2. Educational Opportunities:
o Learning Resources: Social media platforms offer educational
content, tutorials, and discussions. Teens can learn about diverse
topics beyond the classroom.
o Career Exploration: Exposure to professionals and industries can
help teens explore career paths.
3. Digital Literacy and Responsibility:
o Navigating Online Spaces: Teens need to learn how to navigate
digital spaces responsibly. Restricting social media entirely might
hinder their ability to develop digital literacy.
o Guidance and Boundaries: Parents and educators can provide
guidance on safe online behavior and set boundaries.

Conclusion
Balancing the benefits and risks of social media for teenagers is crucial. Rather
than an outright ban, a nuanced approach is necessary. Setting limits, promoting
healthy usage, and fostering open conversations can empower teens to navigate
social media responsibly. As you write your essay, consider both perspectives and
propose practical solutions that prioritize mental well-being while acknowledging
the positive aspects of social media.

TOPIC: Schools should students to bring and use their cell phones at schools?

Let’s explore the pros and cons of allowing students to bring and use cell phones
in schools. This topic has sparked debates worldwide, and educators, parents, and
students have varying opinions:
The Case for Allowing Cell Phones in Schools
1. Educational Benefits:
o Learning Apps: Cell phones can serve as powerful educational tools.
Students can access educational apps, research information, and learn
independently.
o Digital Literacy: Familiarity with technology is essential in today’s
world. Allowing cell phones can enhance students’ digital literacy
skills.
2. Emergency Communication:

o Safety: In emergencies, cell phones enable quick communication

between students, parents, and school staff. They provide peace of
mind for families.
o Medical Situations: Students with health conditions may need
immediate access to their phones for medical reasons.
2. Parental Involvement:
o Parent-Teacher Communication: Cell phones allow parents to stay
informed about school events, assignments, and their child’s progress.
o Virtual Parent-Teacher Meetings: During virtual or hybrid learning,
cell phones facilitate parent-teacher conferences.

The Case Against Allowing Cell Phones in Schools

1. Distraction and Disruption:
o Classroom Focus: Cell phones can distract students from learning.
Texting, social media, and gaming divert attention away from lessons.
 o Academic Performance: Research suggests that multitasking (using
phones while learning) negatively impacts comprehension and
retention.
2. Bullying and Misuse:
o Cyberbullying: Cell phones can be used for cyberbullying, spreading
rumors, and harmful behavior.
o Cheating: Some students may use phones to cheat during exams or
assessments.
3. Social Interaction:
o Isolation: Excessive phone use can lead to social isolation. Students
may interact less with peers during breaks.
o Face-to-Face Communication: Encouraging face-to-face interactions
fosters social skills and empathy.

Balancing Act and School Policies

1. Individual Teacher Discretion:
o Some schools allow teachers to decide whether students can use
phones during class. Teachers may incorporate phone use into lessons
or set specific guidelines.
2. Enforcement and Exceptions:
o Schools can enforce policies that limit phone use during instructional
time. Exceptions may include emergencies or specific educational
purposes.
3. Screen-Time Awareness:
o Educators should address screen-time addiction and promote healthy
habits. Teaching digital etiquette is essential.

Conclusion
In the end, finding a balance is crucial. Schools must weigh the benefits of
educational technology against potential distractions. Whether to allow cell phones
depends on the school’s context, student age, and specific needs.