Gp Lah! – Page 4 – Get moving lah!

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.

Compre Practice 3

This passage is about how social pressure determines social behaviour.

Compre Practice 2

This comprehension practice discusses the idea of euthanasia and if it devalues human life.

The authors raise arguments for and against euthanasia. Download.

Education must encompass more than critical thinking and originality. Comment.

Technology is an effective social leveller. How far do you agree?

Examine the claim that patriotism is of little value in modern times.

While some argue that patriotism has diminished in value due to globalisation and modern challenges, others believe it remains essential for national unity and identity.

I. Introduction

Hook: Patriotism is often debated in today’s globalised world.
Background: Overview of patriotism’s role historically and in contemporary society.
Thesis Statement: While some argue that patriotism has diminished in value due to globalisation and modern challenges, others believe it remains essential for national unity and identity.

II. Supporting View 1: Globalisation Reduces Patriotism

Topic Sentence: Globalisation diminishes the value of patriotism.
Example 1: In 2016, the Brexit debate highlighted how globalisation challenges national loyalty in the UK.
Example 2: In 2020, protests in Hong Kong emphasised a struggle between local identity and global influences.
Example 3: In 2018, the Catalonia independence movement showed the conflict between regionalism and national loyalty in Spain.
Analysis: These examples show how globalisation and regional identities challenge traditional patriotism.

III. Supporting View 2: Modern Challenges Outweigh Patriotism

Topic Sentence: Modern challenges make patriotism seem less relevant.
Example 1: In 2021, climate change protests in Germany prioritised global environmental issues over national pride.
Example 2: In 2019, the refugee crisis in Europe raised questions about national borders versus humanitarian concerns.
Example 3: In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic required global cooperation, reducing focus on national interests.
Analysis: These instances illustrate how pressing global issues can overshadow patriotic sentiments.

IV. Opposing View 1: Patriotism Promotes National Unity

Topic Sentence: Patriotism fosters national unity and social cohesion.
Example 1: In 2021, the UK’s response to COVID-19 saw a surge in national unity and support for the NHS.
Example 2: In 2018, the French rallied together during the World Cup, boosting national pride and unity.
Example 3: In 2020, Japan’s Olympics preparations highlighted patriotism and collective effort.
Analysis: These examples show how patriotism can bring people together, fostering unity and pride.

V. Opposing View 2: Patriotism Maintains National Identity

Topic Sentence: Patriotism helps maintain and celebrate national identity.
Example 1: In 2017, India’s celebration of Independence Day highlighted its cultural heritage and unity.
Example 2: In 2020, Russia’s Victory Day parade reinforced national pride and historical remembrance.
Example 3: In 2019, Australia Day celebrated national achievements and identity despite controversies.
Analysis: These instances demonstrate how patriotism sustains national identity and cultural values.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While globalisation and modern challenges may reduce patriotism’s perceived value, it remains crucial for national unity and identity.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Balance global cooperation with national pride to navigate modern complexities.

Compre Practice 1

David Held describes global politics while Robert O’Keohane presents the difficulties in achieving a global society.

Comprehension practice on global politics and the difficulties in achieving a global society. Download.

Is it true that advancements in science have forced us to rethink our values?

Advancements in science have indeed forced us to rethink our values, particularly in ethics and privacy. However, some argue these changes reinforce existing values and encourage adaptation.

I. Introduction

Hook: Science transforms our understanding of the world.
Background: Brief overview of recent scientific advancements and their societal impacts.
Thesis Statement: Advancements in science have indeed forced us to rethink our values, particularly in ethics and privacy. However, some argue these changes reinforce existing values and encourage adaptation.

II. Supporting View 1: Ethical Implications

Topic Sentence: Scientific advancements challenge our ethical values.
Example 1: In 2018, Chinese scientist He Jiankui’s gene-editing of babies raised global ethical concerns.
Example 2: In 2020, the UK’s debates on AI and facial recognition technology highlighted privacy concerns.
Example 3: In 2019, the CRISPR gene-editing advancements in Europe sparked ethical debates.
Analysis: These examples show how science forces us to reconsider ethical boundaries and responsibilities.

III. Supporting View 2: Privacy Concerns

Topic Sentence: Technological advancements raise significant privacy issues.
Example 1: In 2020, India’s Aarogya Setu app for COVID-19 contact tracing raised data privacy concerns.
Example 2: In 2021, China’s extensive surveillance systems led to debates on individual privacy.
Example 3: In 2019, the EU’s GDPR implementation highlighted the need for data protection.
Analysis: These cases illustrate how advancements in science and technology compel us to rethink privacy values.

IV. Opposing View 1: Reinforcement of Existing Values

Topic Sentence: Scientific advancements often reinforce our existing values.
Example 1: In 2019, Japan’s use of robots to care for the elderly reinforced values of compassion and care.
Example 2: In 2020, the UK’s ethical guidelines on AI ensured the technology aligned with societal values.
Example 3: In 2021, Sweden’s renewable energy projects reaffirmed environmental sustainability values.
Analysis: These examples demonstrate how science can support and enhance our existing values.

V. Opposing View 2: Encouraging Adaptation

Topic Sentence: Science encourages the adaptation of values rather than a complete rethink.
Example 1: In 2021, South Korea’s digital education advancements adapted values of learning and accessibility.
Example 2: In 2019, Singapore’s smart city initiatives adapted to values of efficiency and safety.
Example 3: In 2020, the EU’s climate policies adapted to values of environmental stewardship and responsibility.
Analysis: These instances show how advancements in science prompt value adaptations rather than a fundamental shift.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Scientific advancements force us to rethink ethical and human rights, but they also reinforce and adapt existing values.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Balance innovation with ethical considerations to navigate the evolving landscape.