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Poverty is the greatest enemy of the environment. Is this true?

Poverty can significantly impact the environment by driving unsustainable practices, but it is not the sole or greatest factor.

Poverty can significantly impact the environment by driving unsustainable practices, but it is not the sole or greatest factor. Other elements, such as industrial activities and policy failures, also play critical roles.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Poverty plunges the environment and ecosystem into dispair and destruction. Critics opine that poverty can significantly impact the environment.
  • Background: Overview of factors affecting the environment, defining modern living and its typical impacts.
  • Thesis Statement: Poverty significantly impacts the environment, but industrial activities and policy failures are also crucial contributors.

II. Supporting View 1: Poverty Drives Unsustainable Practices

  • Topic Sentence: Poverty can significantly impact the environment, as poverty is a key factor driving unsustainable environmental practices.
  • Example 1: Deforestation in Madagascar (2020) due to slash-and-burn agriculture for survival. Poor farmers clear forests for farmland, leading to habitat loss (source: Reuters, 2020).
  • Example 2: Overfishing in Ghana (2019) as impoverished communities rely on fishing for income. Depleted fish stocks harm marine ecosystems (source: BBC, 2019).
  • Example 3: Charcoal production in Kenya (2021) due to lack of affordable energy sources. Deforestation and soil erosion result from extensive charcoal burning (source: Al Jazeera, 2021).
  • Analysis: Poverty forces communities into practices that degrade the environment.
  • Counterargument: Economic development can mitigate these practices by providing alternatives. Countries like Kenya and Ghana are making progress towards eliminating practices that impact the environment.

III. Supporting View 2: Lack of Resources for Sustainable Alternatives

  • Topic Sentence: Poverty can significantly impact the environment as poverty limits access to sustainable alternatives, exacerbating environmental damage.
  • Example 1: India’s dependence on biomass for cooking (2019) due to poverty. Indoor air pollution and deforestation from using wood and dung (source: The Hindu, 2019).
  • Example 2: Indonesia’s illegal logging (2021) driven by economic hardship. Forests are cleared for timber and agriculture to support livelihoods (source: BBC, 2021). [Countries still cutting down trees].
  • Example 3: Waste management issues in Nigeria (2020) due to lack of infrastructure. Poor waste disposal practices lead to pollution and health hazards (source: The Guardian, 2020).
  • Analysis: Economic constraints hinder the adoption of environmentally friendly practices.
  • Counterargument: Governments and NGOs are working to provide cleaner alternatives. There are many NGOs that have sprouted to help the cause.

IV. Supporting View 3: Immediate Survival Needs Over Long-term Conservation

  • Topic Sentence: Poverty can significantly impact the environment as poverty prioritises immediate survival over long-term environmental conservation.
  • Example 1: Subsistence farming in Nepal (2019) leads to soil degradation and deforestation. Farmers clear land to grow food, impacting biodiversity (source: Reuters, 2019).
  • Example 2: Poaching in Zimbabwe (2020) driven by economic desperation. Endangered species are hunted for income, threatening biodiversity (source: BBC, 2020).
  • Example 3: Pollution from informal settlements in South Africa (2021) due to lack of sanitation. Waste and pollution increase with unplanned urban growth (source: Al Jazeera, 2021).
  • Analysis: The focus on immediate needs overshadows environmental conservation efforts.
  • Counterargument: Sustainable farming initiatives are being introduced to mitigate this impact.

V. Opposing View 1: Industrial Activities as the Main Factor

  • Topic Sentence: Industrial activities are the main factor responsible for environmental degradation, not poverty.
  • Example 1: China’s industrial pollution (2019) despite economic growth. Factories contribute significantly to air and water pollution (source: various).
  • Example 2: Brazil’s Amazon deforestation (2020) driven by agribusiness. Large-scale farming and logging by corporations (source: Reuters, 2020) even if deforestation has slowed down significantly (BBC, 2024) the impact is significant (check out ‘Tipping Point’ by Time Magazine).
  • Example 3: Oil spills in Nigeria (2021) caused by multinational companies. Environmental damage from oil extraction and spills (source: BBC, 2021).
  • Analysis: Industrial activities cause extensive environmental harm, often more than poverty-driven practices.
  • Case Study: Include specific pollution statistics from major industrial cities.

VI. Opposing View 2: Policy Failures as a Key Factor

  • Topic Sentence: Policy failures are a key factor in environmental degradation.
  • Example 1: Deforestation in Indonesia (2020) due to weak enforcement of environmental laws. Illegal logging continues unchecked, harming ecosystems (source: The Guardian, 2020).
  • Example 2: Air pollution in India (2021) exacerbated by ineffective regulation. Poor enforcement of pollution controls leads to severe air quality issues (source: Reuters, 2021).
  • Example 3: Water pollution in Bangladesh (2019) from inadequate waste management policies. Rivers and water bodies contaminated by industrial waste (source: BBC, 2019).
  • Analysis: Weak policies and enforcement contribute significantly to environmental issues.
  • Case Study: Analyze the impact of weak policies on specific regions.

VII. Opposing View 3: Technological and Consumption Patterns

  • Topic Sentence: Modern consumption patterns and technological advancements are significant factors.
  • Example 1: Electronic waste in Ghana (2021) from global tech consumption. Imported e-waste leads to toxic pollution and health risks (source: Al Jazeera, 2021).
  • Example 2: Plastic pollution in the Philippines (2020) from global consumer habits. Ocean and coastal pollution from discarded plastics (source: The Guardian, 2020).
  • Example 3: Urban air pollution in South Korea (2019) due to high vehicle usage. Traffic emissions severely impact air quality (source: Reuters, 2019).
  • Analysis: Consumption and technology use in wealthier societies heavily impact the environment.
  • Case Study: Detail the lifecycle of electronic products and their environmental impact.

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Poverty significantly impacts the environment, but industrial activities and policy failures are also crucial contributors.
  • Summary of Key Points: High consumption, energy use, urbanisation versus sustainable practices, technological innovation, policy changes.
  • Call to Action: Suggest specific steps individuals, governments, and organizations can take to balance modern living with environmental sustainability.
  • Final Thought: Addressing environmental degradation requires tackling both poverty and other significant factors.

Reading References:

  1. World Economic Forum – AGOA 2023
  2. The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming” by David Wallace-Wells, 2019.
  3. The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History” by Elizabeth Kolbert, 2014.
  4. For the Greta Thunberg in your life“.
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The only way to deal with a criminal is to remove him from society. Discuss.

While removing criminals from society can protect the public and deter crime, rehabilitation and restorative justice offer alternative solutions that address underlying issues and promote reintegration.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Crime remains a significant challenge for societies worldwide.
  • Background: Overview of traditional and alternative approaches to dealing with criminals.
  • Thesis Statement: While removing criminals from society can protect the public and deter crime, rehabilitation and restorative justice offer alternative solutions that address underlying issues and promote reintegration.

II. Supporting View 1: Public Safety

  • Topic Sentence: Removing criminals ensures public safety by preventing further harm.
  • Example 1: In 2020, the UK increased sentences for serious offenders to protect citizens.
  • Example 2: In 2019, Italy’s anti-mafia operations removed dangerous criminals from society.
  • Example 3: In 2021, Australia implemented strict measures to detain violent offenders.
  • Analysis: These examples demonstrate how removing criminals enhances public safety.

III. Supporting View 2: Deterrence

  • Topic Sentence: Harsh penalties serve as a deterrent to potential criminals.
  • Example 1: In 2018, Singapore’s strict drug laws deterred drug trafficking.
  • Example 2: In 2019, Saudi Arabia’s severe penalties for theft reduced crime rates.
  • Example 3: In 2020, Japan’s tough stance on organised crime deterred criminal activities.
  • Analysis: These instances show that strict penalties can deter criminal behaviour.

IV. Supporting View 3: Retribution

  • Topic Sentence: Removing criminals serves as retribution, providing justice for victims.
  • Example 1: In 2019, India imposed death penalties for heinous crimes, providing closure to victims’ families.
  • Example 2: In 2020, South Africa’s long prison sentences for violent crimes satisfied public demand for justice.
  • Example 3: In 2021, France’s life sentences for terrorists offered retribution to affected communities.
  • Analysis: These examples illustrate how removing criminals satisfies the need for justice and retribution.

V. Opposing View 1: Rehabilitation

  • Topic Sentence: Rehabilitation offers a chance for criminals to reform and reintegrate.
  • Example 1: In 2020, Norway’s rehabilitation programmes significantly reduced reoffending rates.
  • Example 2: In 2019, Sweden’s focus on rehabilitation over punishment led to successful reintegration of offenders.
  • Example 3: In 2021, Finland’s humane prison system prioritised rehabilitation, showing positive outcomes.
  • Analysis: These cases demonstrate the effectiveness of rehabilitation in reducing reoffending and promoting reintegration.

VI. Opposing View 2: Restorative Justice

  • Topic Sentence: Restorative justice addresses the harm caused and promotes healing.
  • Example 1: In 2018, New Zealand’s restorative justice practices helped victims and offenders reconcile.
  • Example 2: In 2019, South Africa’s community justice programmes resolved conflicts and healed communities.
  • Example 3: In 2020, Canada’s restorative justice initiatives reduced recidivism and repaired harm.
  • Analysis: These instances show how restorative justice can effectively address crime’s impact and promote healing.

VII. Opposing View 3: Social and Economic Costs

  • Topic Sentence: Removing criminals from society incurs high social and economic costs.
  • Example 1: In 2020, the UK faced criticism for the high costs of long-term imprisonment.
  • Example 2: In 2019, Italy struggled with overcrowded prisons and the associated costs.
  • Example 3: In 2021, Australia debated the financial burden of extensive incarceration policies.
  • Analysis: These examples highlight the significant social and economic costs of removing criminals from society.

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While removing criminals can protect the public and deter crime, rehabilitation and restorative justice offer viable alternatives that address underlying issues and promote reintegration.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: A balanced approach combining removal, rehabilitation, and restorative justice can effectively address crime and promote societal well-being.

The main benefits of science have been material comforts and longer life. Do you agree?

While science has undeniably provided material comforts and longer life, its main benefits extend to environmental preservation, global communication, and enhanced knowledge.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Science has revolutionised our lives in many ways.
  • Background: Overview of the impacts of scientific advancements on society.
  • Thesis Statement: While science has undeniably provided material comforts and longer life, its main benefits extend to environmental preservation, global communication, and enhanced knowledge.

II. Supporting View 1: Material Comforts

  • Topic Sentence: Science has greatly improved material comforts.
  • Example 1: In 2021, Japan’s advancements in robotics improved household convenience.
  • Example 2: In 2019, Germany’s renewable energy innovations led to sustainable living.
  • Example 3: In 2020, South Korea’s smart home technology enhanced everyday comfort.
  • Analysis: These examples show how scientific advancements have provided significant material comforts.

III. Supporting View 2: Longer Life

  • Topic Sentence: Science has extended human lifespan.
  • Example 1: In 2021, the UK’s COVID-19 vaccines saved countless lives.
  • Example 2: In 2020, Japan’s advancements in geriatric care improved elderly health.
  • Example 3: In 2019, Singapore’s healthcare innovations increased life expectancy.
  • Analysis: These instances illustrate how scientific progress has contributed to longer, healthier lives.

IV. Supporting View 3: Improved Quality of Life

  • Topic Sentence: Science has improved the overall quality of life.
  • Example 1: In 2020, Sweden’s advancements in clean air technology improved public health.
  • Example 2: In 2019, Norway’s electric vehicle adoption reduced pollution.
  • Example 3: In 2018, Switzerland’s medical research advancements provided better disease management.
  • Analysis: These examples highlight how science has enhanced life quality through health and environmental improvements.

V. Opposing View 1: Environmental Preservation

  • Topic Sentence: Science has provided material comforts but more significantly science also has contributed to environmental preservation.
  • Example 1: In 2021, Costa Rica’s use of renewable energy promoted sustainability.
  • Example 2: In 2019, Kenya’s conservation technology protected wildlife.
  • Example 3: In 2020, the Netherlands’ water management technology prevented flooding.
  • Analysis: These instances demonstrate science’s role in protecting and preserving the environment.

VI. Opposing View 2: Global Communication

  • Topic Sentence: Besides providing material comforts, science has transformed global communication.
  • Example 1: In 2020, India’s satellite technology improved rural connectivity.
  • Example 2: In 2019, South Korea’s 5G network revolutionised communication.
  • Example 3: In 2021, Finland’s internet technology enabled remote working.
  • Analysis: These examples show how scientific advancements have facilitated better global communication and connectivity.

VII. Opposing View 3: Enhanced Knowledge

  • Topic Sentence: Science has significantly enhanced human knowledge. This overshadows the aspect of science has provided material comforts.
  • Example 1: In 2021, CERN’s research in Switzerland advanced our understanding of physics.
  • Example 2: In 2019, Japan’s space missions provided new insights into the universe.
  • Example 3: In 2020, China’s AI research pushed the boundaries of technology.
  • Analysis: These instances illustrate science’s role in expanding our knowledge and understanding of the world.

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While science has provided material comforts and longer life, its main benefits extend to environmental preservation, global communication, and enhanced knowledge.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: The true value of science lies in its broad and transformative impact on all aspects of life.

The problems of poverty can only get worse in the current climate. Discuss.

There is no doubt that climate change exacerbates poverty. While current economic and environmental challenges exacerbate poverty, innovative policies, technology, and global cooperation offer hope for alleviating it.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Climate change is catastrophic for the poor. Poverty remains a pressing global issue.
  • Background: Overview of current economic and environmental challenges.
  • Thesis Statement: While current economic and environmental challenges exacerbate poverty, innovative policies, technology, and global cooperation offer hope for alleviating it.

II. Supporting View 1: Economic Inequality

  • Topic Sentence: Rising economic inequality worsens poverty.
  • Example 1: In 2020, India’s wealth gap widened, increasing poverty.
  • Example 2: In 2019, South Africa faced growing economic disparity and poverty.
  • Example 3: In 2021, Brazil saw increased inequality due to the pandemic.
  • Analysis: These examples show how economic inequality exacerbates poverty.

III. Supporting View 2: Climate Change

  • Topic Sentence: Climate change exacerbates poverty by affecting livelihoods.
  • Example 1: In 2019, Cyclone Idai devastated Mozambique, increasing poverty.
  • Example 2: In 2020, Australian bushfires harmed agriculture and local economies.
  • Example 3: In 2021, floods in Germany displaced thousands, worsening poverty.
  • Analysis: These cases illustrate how climate disasters worsen poverty conditions.

IV. Supporting View 3: Pandemic Impact

  • Topic Sentence: The COVID-19 pandemic has deepened poverty globally.
  • Example 1: In 2020, Kenya’s economy suffered, increasing poverty levels.
  • Example 2: In 2021, Peru faced economic collapse, worsening poverty.
  • Example 3: In 2020, India’s lockdowns severely impacted the poor.
  • Analysis: These examples show the pandemic’s significant impact on poverty.

V. Opposing View 1: Innovative Policies

  • Topic Sentence: Innovative policies can help alleviate poverty.
  • Example 1: In 2019, Finland’s basic income experiment reduced poverty.
  • Example 2: In 2021, South Korea’s universal welfare policies helped the poor.
  • Example 3: In 2020, Germany’s social safety nets supported many during the pandemic.
  • Analysis: These instances demonstrate how innovative policies can reduce poverty.

VI. Opposing View 2: Technological Advancements

  • Topic Sentence: Technology offers new solutions to combat poverty.
  • Example 1: In 2020, India’s digital payments increased financial inclusion.
  • Example 2: In 2019, Kenya’s M-Pesa revolutionised banking for the poor.
  • Example 3: In 2021, Rwanda’s drone deliveries improved healthcare access.
  • Analysis: These examples highlight how technology can alleviate poverty.

VII. Opposing View 3: Global Cooperation

  • Topic Sentence: International cooperation can address global poverty.
  • Example 1: In 2020, the EU’s recovery fund supported member states in crisis.
  • Example 2: In 2019, China’s Belt and Road Initiative invested in developing nations.
  • Example 3: In 2021, the UN’s SDGs targeted global poverty reduction.
  • Analysis: These instances show the potential of global cooperation to reduce poverty.

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While current challenges worsen poverty, innovative policies, technology, and global cooperation offer hope.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Collective efforts and innovation are essential to combat poverty effectively.

A good leader must be a good follower. Is this necessarily true?

A good leader often benefits from being a good follower, gaining essential skills and insights. However, leadership also requires independent thinking and decisive action, which do not always align with the premise of the question.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Leadership and followership are often seen as opposing roles.
  • Background: Brief overview of leadership qualities and the importance of followership.
  • Thesis Statement: A good leader often benefits from being a good follower, gaining essential skills and insights. However, leadership also requires independent thinking and decisive action, which do not always align with following.

II. Supporting View 1: Understanding Team Dynamics

  • Topic Sentence: Good followers understand team dynamics, which is crucial for effective leadership.
  • Example 1: In 2020, Jacinda Ardern’s collaborative approach in New Zealand showed strong team dynamics.
  • Example 2: In 2018, Emmanuel Macron’s rise involved understanding and working within different political groups in France.
  • Example 3: In 2021, Sanna Marin’s leadership in Finland highlighted her ability to engage with her team.
  • Analysis: These examples show that understanding team dynamics enhances leadership effectiveness.

III. Supporting View 2: Empathy and Support

  • Topic Sentence: Good followers develop empathy and the ability to support others, crucial for leaders.
  • Example 1: In 2017, Angela Merkel’s empathetic response to the refugee crisis showed her understanding of people’s needs in Germany.
  • Example 2: In 2019, Justin Trudeau’s supportive policies in Canada demonstrated empathy.
  • Example 3: In 2018, Leo Varadkar’s leadership in Ireland reflected his supportive approach to social issues.
  • Analysis: These cases illustrate how empathy and support are vital leadership qualities developed through good followership.

IV. Supporting View 3: Learning from Leaders

  • Topic Sentence: Good followers learn from their leaders, which is essential for their own leadership development.
  • Example 1: In 2018, Theresa May’s experience under David Cameron in the UK shaped her leadership.
  • Example 2: In 2019, Japan’s Shinzo Abe benefited from his early political roles.
  • Example 3: In 2020, Pedro Sánchez of Spain grew through his political experiences.
  • Analysis: These examples highlight how learning from leaders can prepare individuals for their own leadership roles.

V. Opposing View 1: Independent Thinking

  • Topic Sentence: Leadership requires independent thinking, which does not always align with being a follower.
  • Example 1: In 2019, Narendra Modi’s decisive actions in India showed independent leadership.
  • Example 2: In 2018, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman demonstrated independent, sometimes controversial, decisions.
  • Example 3: In 2020, Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky showed strong independent leadership in crisis.
  • Analysis: These cases demonstrate how independent thinking is crucial for effective leadership.

VI. Opposing View 2: Decisiveness and Authority

  • Topic Sentence: Leaders need to make decisive and authoritative decisions, which followers may not always do.
  • Example 1: In 2021, Boris Johnson’s handling of the UK’s COVID-19 response required decisive leadership.
  • Example 2: In 2020, South Korea’s Moon Jae-in took decisive actions against COVID-19.
  • Example 3: In 2019, Ethiopia’s Abiy Ahmed’s peace efforts required authoritative decisions.
  • Analysis: These instances show that decisiveness and authority are essential for leadership, sometimes contrasting with followership.

VII. Opposing View 3: Vision and Innovation

  • Topic Sentence: Effective leaders often have a vision and drive innovation, which followers may lack.
  • Example 1: In 2020, Taiwan’s Tsai Ing-wen showed innovative leadership in technology and health.
  • Example 2: In 2018, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame led with a vision for technological advancement.
  • Analysis: These examples illustrate that having a vision and driving innovation are key leadership traits.

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While being a good follower can enhance leadership skills, effective leadership also requires independent thinking, decisiveness, and vision.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: A balanced approach that integrates followership experiences with independent leadership traits is ideal.

This essay is overly focused on politicians and may not score well, although it has many examples. It is important to provide a broad perspective of where leaders are needed. Leaders can be found in schools, the military, prisons, and any place where hierarchies are required, i.e., even at home.

Affluence is as much a curse as a blessing. Discuss.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Wealth is often seen as the key to happiness.
  • Background: Overview of the advantages and disadvantages of affluence.
  • Thesis Statement: Affluence brings comfort and opportunities but also leads to social isolation and environmental harm, making it both a curse and a blessing.

II. Supporting View 1: Increased Comfort and Opportunities

  • Topic Sentence: Affluence provides comfort and numerous opportunities.
  • Example 1: In 2019, Singapore’s high-income citizens enjoyed excellent healthcare and education.
  • Example 2: In 2021, Qatar’s wealth funded state-of-the-art infrastructure and public services.
  • Example 3: In 2018, Switzerland’s affluent society benefited from high living standards and security.
  • Analysis: These examples show how wealth can improve quality of life and provide opportunities.

III. Supporting View 2: Ability to Support Others

  • Topic Sentence: Affluent individuals and nations can support others in need.
  • Example 1: In 2020, Norway donated significant funds for global COVID-19 relief.
  • Example 2: In 2018, the UAE provided extensive humanitarian aid to war-torn Yemen.
  • Example 3: In 2021, Germany funded various international development projects.
  • Analysis: These instances highlight how affluence enables support for less fortunate communities.

IV. Opposing View 1: Social Isolation and Mental Health Issues

  • Topic Sentence: Affluence can lead to social isolation and mental health problems.
  • Example 1: In 2021, reports from Japan showed high rates of loneliness among wealthy individuals.
  • Example 2: In 2019, South Korea saw a rise in mental health issues among its affluent youth.
  • Example 3: In 2018, the UK reported increased depression rates in wealthy areas.
  • Analysis: These examples illustrate how wealth can lead to social isolation and mental health struggles.

V. Opposing View 2: Environmental Impact

  • Topic Sentence: Affluence contributes to significant environmental damage.
  • Example 1: In 2020, China’s rapid industrialisation led to severe air pollution.
  • Example 2: In 2019, the UAE’s high consumption rates resulted in significant waste production.
  • Example 3: In 2021, Australia’s affluent lifestyle contributed to large carbon footprints.
  • Analysis: These instances demonstrate how affluent lifestyles can harm the environment.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Affluence brings comfort and opportunities but also leads to social isolation and environmental harm, making it both a curse and a blessing.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Balance the pursuit of wealth with awareness of its potential drawbacks.

Compre Practice 4

This passage, suitable for 17-18 year olds, has MCQ options to help students correlate their thinking. The passage is about the influence of television soaps.

Consider reading the following essay before attempting the comprehension exercise.

Interesting reading from the BBC on how soaps changed the world, and if soaps are in danger of extinction. Let us also investigate the allure of Korean soaps and the sympathy for K-Drama.

Is the cost of developing a national identity too high?

The cost of developing a national identity can be high due to potential social and economic conflicts. However, it is essential for unity and cultural preservation.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: National identity shapes a nation’s character and values.
  • Background: Overview of the importance and costs of developing national identity.
  • Thesis Statement: The cost of developing a national identity can be high due to potential social and economic conflicts. However, it is essential for unity and cultural preservation.

II. Supporting View 1: Social Conflict

  • Topic Sentence: Developing a national identity can lead to social conflict.
  • Example 1: In 2017, Catalonia’s push for independence caused severe tension in Spain.
  • Example 2: In 2014, Scotland’s independence referendum divided the UK.
  • Example 3: In 2019, the Hong Kong protests highlighted identity struggles within China.
  • Analysis: These examples show how efforts to develop national identity can cause social unrest and division.

III. Supporting View 2: Economic Costs

  • Topic Sentence: Developing a national identity can incur significant economic costs.
  • Example 1: In 2016, Brexit led to economic uncertainty in the UK.
  • Example 2: In 2018, Italy’s nationalist policies strained its economy and EU relations.
  • Example 3: In 2020, India’s national identity campaigns, like “Make in India,” faced economic challenges.
  • Analysis: These instances demonstrate how national identity efforts can lead to substantial economic costs.

IV. Opposing View 1: Unity and Social Cohesion

  • Topic Sentence: National identity fosters unity and social cohesion.
  • Example 1: In 2021, Japan’s Olympics fostered national pride and unity.
  • Example 2: In 2018, France’s World Cup victory boosted national morale.
  • Example 3: In 2017, Finland’s centenary celebrations reinforced national unity.
  • Analysis: These examples illustrate how a strong national identity can bring people together and foster a sense of belonging.

V. Opposing View 2: Cultural Preservation

  • Topic Sentence: Developing a national identity helps preserve cultural heritage.
  • Example 1: In 2021, South Korea promoted its cultural heritage through K-pop and K-dramas.
  • Example 2: In 2016, India celebrated its cultural diversity through various national initiatives.
  • Example 3: In 2020, Ireland’s cultural festivals reinforced its unique identity.
  • Analysis: These instances highlight how national identity efforts help preserve and promote cultural heritage.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While developing a national identity can be costly due to social and economic conflicts, it is essential for unity and cultural preservation.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Balance efforts to foster national identity with strategies to mitigate social and economic costs.

Online playing of games can enhance language acquisition. Discuss other aspects of gaming that may be beneficial.

Possible points for/against the claim that Online playing of games can enhance language acquisition

Addictive
• Replaces social activity with friends and family
• Expensive
• Some argue that online playing of games can induce poor behaviour
• Can be used for education
• Can develop thinking skills
• Can enhance problem solving ability
• Sharpen our reactions
• Develops a competitive spirit
• Can provide links to literature and film
• More active than watching TV
• Some online activities include working with others
• Can be bad for health – not leading an active lifestyle
• Can become divorced from reality
• May lead to crime if no money to buy equipment