Gp Lah! – Page 6 – Get moving lah!

Poetry has little to no value today. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: In an age dominated by digital media and rapid communication, poetry often seems like a relic of the past.
Background: Brief overview of poetry’s historical significance and its current status in modern culture.
Thesis Statement: Despite claims that poetry holds little value in contemporary society due to its perceived irrelevance and diminishing readership, it continues to offer profound cultural, educational, and emotional benefits that validate its enduring significance.

II. Supporting View 1: Perceived Irrelevance

Topic Sentence: Critics argue that poetry is increasingly irrelevant in today’s fast-paced world.
Example 1: The decline in poetry book sales and readership statistics, such as reports from the Publishers Association highlighting lower sales figures compared to other genres.
Example 2: The reduction of poetry in school curriculums in favour of more utilitarian subjects like STEM, as evidenced by changes in the UK’s National Curriculum.
Analysis: Discuss how these trends reflect a societal shift away from valuing poetry, contributing to the perception of its diminished importance.

III. Supporting View 2: Diminishing Readership

Topic Sentence: The readership of poetry is diminishing, leading to questions about its relevance and value.
Example 1: Surveys showing that a smaller percentage of the population regularly reads poetry compared to other forms of literature, such as novels or non-fiction.
Example 2: The closure of several renowned poetry magazines and journals due to lack of subscriptions and financial support, indicating waning interest.
Analysis: Examine how these examples highlight the challenges poetry faces in maintaining a significant presence in contemporary literary culture.

IV. Opposing View 1: Cultural and Educational Value

Topic Sentence: Poetry continues to offer substantial cultural and educational value in modern society.
Example 1: The success of initiatives like National Poetry Day in the UK, which celebrates poetry’s role in culture and education and engages people of all ages.
Example 2: The incorporation of poetry into therapeutic and educational programmes, such as Poetry Therapy, which uses verse to promote mental health and literacy.
Analysis: Discuss how these examples illustrate poetry’s ongoing relevance and its ability to enrich cultural and educational experiences.

V. Opposing View 2: Emotional and Social Impact

Topic Sentence: Poetry remains a powerful medium for emotional expression and social commentary.
Example 1: The popularity of contemporary poets like Rupi Kaur and Amanda Gorman, whose works resonate with wide audiences and address pressing social issues.
Example 2: The use of poetry in social movements and protests, such as the #MeToo movement, where poetry has been employed to articulate experiences and inspire change.
Analysis: Explore how these instances demonstrate poetry’s capacity to connect with people emotionally and drive social discourse, underscoring its lasting value.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While poetry faces challenges related to perceived irrelevance and diminishing readership, its cultural, educational, and emotional contributions affirm its continued importance in modern society.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
Final Thought: Emphasise the need to recognise and support poetry’s unique ability to enrich human experience and foster deeper understanding in an increasingly complex world.

Giving people a voice only makes matters worse. What are your views?

While giving people a voice can lead to conflict and misinformation, it also promotes democracy, accountability, and social change, suggesting a complex impact.

I. Introduction

Hook: Free speech is both celebrated and criticised.
Background: Overview of the benefits and drawbacks of giving people a voice.
Thesis Statement: While giving people a voice can lead to conflict and misinformation, it also promotes democracy, accountability, and social change, suggesting a complex impact.

II. Supporting View 1: Conflict and Division

Topic Sentence: Giving people a voice can lead to conflict and division.
Example 1: In 2016, Brexit debates divided the UK deeply.
Example 2: In 2021, protests in Myanmar led to violent clashes after the military coup.
Example 3: In 2019, Hong Kong protests caused severe social and political tensions.
Analysis: These examples show that free expression can escalate conflicts and divisions.

III. Supporting View 2: Spread of Misinformation

Topic Sentence: Free speech can result in the spread of misinformation.
Example 1: In 2016, false news about the EU influenced the Brexit referendum in the UK.
Example 2: In 2020, false information on COVID-19 spread widely in India, causing panic.
Example 3: In 2018, fake news on social media led to lynchings in Indonesia.
Analysis: These cases demonstrate how misinformation can worsen situations when people have unchecked freedom of speech.

IV. Opposing View 1: Promotes Democracy

Topic Sentence: Giving people a voice promotes democracy and accountability.
Example 1: In 2011, the Arab Spring saw citizens demand democratic reforms across the Middle East.
Example 2: In 1994, South Africa’s end of apartheid was influenced by voices demanding equality.
Example 3: In 2020, Belarus protests called for fair elections and democracy.
Analysis: These examples highlight how free speech can drive democratic change and accountability.

V. Opposing View 2: Enables Social Change

Topic Sentence: Free speech enables significant social change.
Example 1: In 2015, Tunisia’s peaceful protests led to a democratic constitution.
Example 2: In 2006, the Chilean student protests achieved education reform.
Example 3: In 2017, the #MeToo movement spread globally, challenging sexual harassment.
Analysis: These instances show that giving people a voice can lead to important social changes.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While giving people a voice can lead to conflict and misinformation, it also promotes democracy and social change, indicating a complex impact.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Balance the benefits and risks of free speech to harness its positive impact.

Discuss the value of beauty in the 21st century.

The 21st century has brought about unique perspectives to the concept of beauty.

I. Introduction

Hook: In today’s world, beauty is more than skin deep; it shapes perceptions and opportunities.
Background: Brief overview of how beauty standards have evolved and their current status in the 21st century.
Thesis Statement: The value of beauty in the 21st century remains significant as it influences personal identity, social interactions, and economic dynamics, despite arguments suggesting that it can perpetuate superficiality and discrimination.

II. Supporting View 1: Influence on Personal Identity

Topic Sentence: Beauty plays a crucial role in shaping personal identity and self-esteem in the 21st century.
Example 1: The impact of social media influencers on self-perception, such as the rise of body-positive influencers like Ashley Graham.
Example 2: The cosmetic industry’s growth, exemplified by the global success of brands like Fenty Beauty, which promotes inclusivity and diversity in beauty standards.
Analysis: Discuss how these examples show the importance of beauty in personal empowerment and confidence.

III. Supporting View 2: Economic Dynamics

Topic Sentence: The beauty industry significantly contributes to the global economy, reflecting its value in contemporary society.
Example 1: The booming beauty and skincare market, with companies like L’Oréal and Estée Lauder generating billions in revenue annually.
Example 2: The influence of beauty standards on employment and marketing, as seen in industries like fashion and entertainment where appearance often correlates with success.
Analysis: Examine how these economic factors underline the sustained relevance and value of beauty in modern times.

IV. Opposing View 1: Perpetuation of Superficiality

Topic Sentence: Critics argue that an emphasis on beauty fosters a culture of superficiality and unrealistic expectations.
Example 1: The negative psychological effects of photo-editing apps and filters, leading to issues like body dysmorphia and low self-esteem.
Example 2: The proliferation of cosmetic surgeries, such as the rise in procedures among teenagers influenced by social media standards.
Analysis: Discuss how these trends suggest that the pursuit of beauty can be harmful, promoting shallow values over substantive qualities.

V. Opposing View 2: Discrimination and Inequality

Topic Sentence: The value placed on beauty can lead to discrimination and social inequality.
Example 1: Workplace discrimination based on appearance, where attractive individuals are often preferred for jobs and promotions, creating a bias against those who don’t meet conventional beauty standards.
Example 2: The beauty bias in media representation, where certain races and body types are underrepresented, perpetuating racial and body-image discrimination.
Analysis: Explore how these examples highlight the negative consequences of beauty standards, reinforcing social hierarchies and exclusion.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While beauty holds significant value in the 21st century through its impact on identity, social interactions, and the economy, it also brings challenges such as superficiality and discrimination.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
Final Thought: Reflect on the need for a balanced perspective that acknowledges the positive aspects of beauty while addressing its potential drawbacks.

Young people today have little to no skills to meet the challenges of the future. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: In an ever-evolving world, the readiness of today’s youth to face future challenges is a topic of heated debate.
Background: Brief overview of the skills traditionally deemed necessary for future success and the changing landscape of required competencies.
Thesis Statement: While some argue that young people today lack the necessary skills to meet future challenges due to deficiencies in traditional education and life skills, others believe that the adaptability, technological proficiency, and innovative thinking of the younger generation equip them well for the future.

II. Supporting View 1: Deficiencies in Traditional Education

Topic Sentence: The current education system often fails to equip young people with essential skills needed for future challenges.
Example 1: A study by the National Center for Education Statistics showing declining scores in critical thinking and problem-solving among high school students in the U.S. and Europe.
Example 2: Employers’ frequent complaints about graduates lacking basic skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management.
Analysis: Discuss how these examples highlight the shortcomings of the traditional education system in preparing students for the real world.

III. Supporting View 2: Lack of Life Skills

Topic Sentence: Many young people today are deficient in basic life skills that are crucial for future success.
Example 1: The increasing reliance on technology for simple tasks, leading to a decline in practical skills such as cooking, financial management, and basic repairs.
Example 2: The rising rates of anxiety and depression among young people, often linked to a lack of coping mechanisms and emotional resilience.
Analysis: Examine how these trends suggest that young people may struggle to navigate everyday challenges and maintain mental well-being.

IV. Opposing View 1: Technological Proficiency and Adaptability

Topic Sentence: Young people today possess high levels of technological proficiency and adaptability, which are crucial for future challenges.
Example 1: The success of young entrepreneurs in the tech industry, such as Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, who have revolutionized their fields through innovation.
Example 2: The rapid adoption and adaptation to new technologies, such as the widespread use of coding skills and digital literacy among teenagers and young adults.
Analysis: Discuss how these examples illustrate the younger generation’s readiness to thrive in a tech-driven future.

V. Opposing View 2: Innovative Thinking and Problem-Solving

Topic Sentence: The younger generation’s innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities prepare them well for future challenges.
Example 1: The rise of social movements led by young activists, such as Greta Thunberg with climate change and Malala Yousafzai with education, showcasing leadership and advocacy skills.
Example 2: The development of groundbreaking solutions to global issues by young inventors, like Boyan Slat’s ocean cleanup project.
Analysis: Explore how these initiatives demonstrate young people’s capacity to tackle complex problems with creativity and determination.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While concerns about deficiencies in traditional education and life skills are valid, the adaptability, technological proficiency, and innovative thinking of young people indicate that they are well-prepared to meet future challenges.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
Final Thought: Emphasize the importance of fostering both traditional and modern skills in education to ensure a well-rounded preparation for future challenges.

Now, more than ever, people need to be aware of their rights. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: In an era marked by globalization, technological advancement, and social change, understanding one’s rights has never been more important.
Background: Overview of the evolving nature of rights and the contemporary challenges that necessitate greater awareness.
Thesis Statement: In today’s complex and rapidly changing world, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of their rights to safeguard their freedoms, ensure social justice, and effectively participate in democratic processes, despite arguments that suggest such awareness can lead to increased societal conflicts and misuse of rights.

II. Supporting View 1: Safeguarding Freedoms

Topic Sentence: Awareness of rights is essential for safeguarding personal freedoms and preventing abuses of power.
Example 1: The role of whistleblowers like Edward Snowden, who exposed government surveillance programs, highlighting the importance of privacy rights.
Example 2: The global #MeToo movement, which empowered individuals to speak out against sexual harassment and abuse, emphasizing the need for awareness of legal protections.
Analysis: Discuss how these examples show the importance of rights awareness in protecting individual freedoms and fostering a culture of accountability.

III. Supporting View 2: Ensuring Social Justice

Topic Sentence: Being aware of one’s rights is crucial for promoting social justice and addressing systemic inequalities.
Example 1: The Black Lives Matter movement, which has raised awareness of police brutality and systemic racism, leading to significant social and legislative changes.
Example 2: The advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, which has led to the legalization of same-sex marriage and anti-discrimination laws in many countries.
Analysis: Examine how these movements demonstrate the power of rights awareness in driving social justice and achieving legal reforms.

IV. Opposing View 1: Increased Societal Conflicts

Topic Sentence: Some argue that heightened awareness of rights can lead to increased societal conflicts and polarization.
Example 1: The rise in protests and civil unrest, such as those seen during the 2020 U.S. presidential election, where differing views on rights led to significant societal tension.
Example 2: The backlash against public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, where individuals citing personal freedoms clashed with government-imposed restrictions.
Analysis: Discuss how these situations suggest that increased rights awareness can sometimes lead to conflicts and challenges in maintaining social order.

V. Opposing View 2: Misuse of Rights

Topic Sentence: Awareness of rights can sometimes lead to their misuse, undermining the intended protections.
Example 1: The exploitation of free speech rights to spread misinformation and hate speech online, which can harm public discourse and societal harmony.
Example 2: Legal loopholes used by corporations to avoid accountability and evade regulations, demonstrating how rights can be manipulated for unjust advantages.
Analysis: Explore how these examples highlight the potential negative consequences of rights awareness when it leads to exploitation and misuse.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While increased awareness of rights is essential for protecting freedoms and promoting social justice, it can also lead to societal conflicts and misuse of rights if not properly managed.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
Final Thought: Emphasize the need for balanced education on rights that includes both the benefits and responsibilities, fostering a more informed and cohesive society.

The world today has diluted the concept of good and bad. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: In an era marked by rapid social change and technological advancement, traditional notions of good and bad are often questioned.
Background: Overview of how moral and ethical standards have evolved over time, particularly in the context of globalization and digital media.
Thesis Statement: In the contemporary world, the concepts of good and bad have become increasingly diluted due to cultural relativism and media influence, yet some argue that these changes reflect a more nuanced understanding of morality and ethical complexity.

II. Supporting View 1: Cultural Relativism

Topic Sentence: The rise of cultural relativism has led to a dilution of universal moral standards.
Example 1: The varying attitudes towards practices such as arranged marriages or corporal punishment across different cultures, which challenge the idea of a single moral truth.
Example 2: The global debate on LGBTQ+ rights, where acceptance and legality vary widely, demonstrating conflicting views on what is considered “good” or “bad.”
Analysis: Discuss how these examples illustrate the impact of cultural relativism on diluting clear-cut moral judgments.

III. Supporting View 2: Media Influence

Topic Sentence: Media influence has contributed to the blurring of the lines between good and bad.
Example 1: The portrayal of anti-heroes in popular TV shows and movies, like Walter White in “Breaking Bad,” which complicates the audience’s sense of morality.
Example 2: The spread of misinformation and fake news through social media platforms, making it difficult to discern truth from falsehood and good intentions from bad.
Analysis: Examine how media representations and the digital information landscape have complicated traditional moral categories.

IV. Opposing View 1: Nuanced Understanding of Morality

Topic Sentence: The perceived dilution of good and bad reflects a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of morality.
Example 1: The increasing recognition of mental health issues, leading to more compassionate responses to behaviors previously judged harshly, such as addiction or crime.
Example 2: The rise of restorative justice practices, which focus on rehabilitation and reconciliation rather than punishment, promoting a more complex view of justice.
Analysis: Discuss how these developments indicate a shift towards a more sophisticated and empathetic approach to moral judgments.

V. Opposing View 2: Ethical Complexity in Globalization

Topic Sentence: Globalization has introduced ethical complexities that necessitate a reevaluation of good and bad.
Example 1: The ethical dilemmas surrounding global trade practices, such as the use of sweatshops or exploitation of labor in developing countries.
Example 2: The environmental impact of technological advancements, where progress and innovation often come at the cost of ecological harm, creating complex moral decisions.
Analysis: Explore how these global issues require a more detailed consideration of ethics, challenging simplistic notions of good and bad.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While it appears that the concepts of good and bad have become diluted in today’s world due to cultural relativism and media influence, this can also be seen as a progression towards a more nuanced and complex understanding of morality.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
Final Thought: Emphasize the importance of continuous dialogue and critical thinking in navigating moral and ethical challenges in the contemporary world.

Only educated people should have the right to vote in elections. What is your view?

The US Presidential election in 2016 shocked everyone. This was because a billionaire businessman who never held political office had been elected to the most powerful position in the world. Furthermore, his win stemmed from ethnic antagonism, strict immigration controls, sexism and hate mongering. Such results lead to the question: should only educated people have the right to vote? There are people who agree that only educated people should vote as they can make rational decisions. On the other hand, there are those who believe that voting should be accessible to all as everyone has their own set of beliefs. Agreeing with the latter view, it can be contended that everyone should have the right to vote regardless of education because equality in political decisions is necessary and helps us in identifying issues that are prevalent in the society.

Voting rights should not be limited to educated people as everyone’s vote counts. Voting has been an important democratic right. In a democracy every single vote is important because it represents the people. Voting right if given only an educated group means that we are ignoring the voices and opinions of thousands who are uneducated. In developed modern democracies people have the right to vote equally because votes are the collective beliefs and opinions of the populace. In countries like the United Kingdom and Singapore, voting rights have been endowed upon all of voting age. Thus, it is important that everyone is given equal rights to vote regardless of education because that is the true essence of democracy.

Those who argue that educated people should be the only ones to vote believe that they are politically literate. However, there is no truth in this argument. Though education is an important tool in giving us wider perspectives on various social subjects. However, just because a person is educated does not mean that he is politically knowledgeable. Even educated people find the subject of politics complicated and lack knowledge on political matters. On the contrary uneducated people are more likely to understand political matters than the educated people. This can be seen in countries like India where uneducated voters play an important role in the elections. The second issue lies with the ambiguousness of the term educated. Would a person from high school be considered educated enough to vote? In schools or colleges no one studies in-depth politics, thus it should not be a factor in allowing someone to vote. Therefore, education does not translate into political knowledge or awareness which means that everyone should have the right to vote in elections.

A true democracy allows all people to vote and brings forth the issues of social importance. Giving voting rights to only one group is a form of inequality. Voting rights given to all regardless of educational qualifications allows representation of all people and not just a selection of people. For example, despite controversial views of Trump on immigration and trade, Americans chose him because he spoke of issues that affected people from lower socio-economic backgrounds. His statements of restoring America to greatness struck a chord with many Americans that eventually led to him winning the elections. However, there are many opposed and still oppose the Trump administration. Democracy is the power due to which various political and social issues can come to the front. If only educated people are allowed to vote only issues affecting them will get highlighted and the uneducated will be completely disenfranchised. This can lead to conflict and tensions within the society and can also lead to prejudice and violence. Thus, it is important that everyone is allowed to vote regardless of educational background.

In conclusion, allowing only one group – the educated people – to vote than the uneducated people is discriminatory and should not be allowed. Favouring the educated over the uneducated goes against the basic tenets of democracy which asks for equality to be practiced. Voting should be allowed for all because it helps highlight the issues of all the groups involved and not just the elite. In a nutshell, allowing everyone to vote is a step in the right direction towards equality.

News media must always tell the truth. To what extent do you agree?

Possible points for discussing news media must always tell the truth

show an understanding of the concept of truth in what we read, hear and see
discuss circumstances where the media might be justified in not telling the whole truth
make a judgement, based on consideration of the evidence and argument put forward about news media must always tell the truth.
versions of the truth may depend upon the political and social attitudes of those involved in the media
sensationalism and rumour-mongering being the economic mainstay of many media outlets
untruthful/partial news should be condemned as likely to limit people’s access to facts and their understanding of issues
accurate news being important in keeping people safe and informed
facts and figures reported can be checked objectively using other sources
opinion and analysis being subjective appeal to people of different persuasions
popular morale may be upheld if the whole truth is not revealed by governments under certain circumstances
it being, to a degree, up to consumers of news to develop a critical approach to sources and fact-checking.

Assess the extent to which music can influence a person’s life.

Possible Points to discuss the extent to which music can influence a person’s life

explore the relative appeal of alternatives to music
make a judgement, based on a consideration of the evidence and argument put forward.
music being a universal language, to be shared with others, bringing people together
music can influence by affecting a person`s mood, whether they are happy or sad and can be a consolation
music sparking the imagination and creating a world of its own
music being used in times of celebration and sorrow, conveying feelings that may be hard to articulate
music having a spiritual dimension; many religions use music to draw people together
music being less influential in people’s lives compared to other influences
music just being a background noise to other activities, such as homework or dining in a restaurant
music being disturbing, offensive and encouraging inappropriate behaviours and attitudes.