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.

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

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.

Is there a justifiable need for wildlife?

Wildlife is essential for ecological balance, scientific research, and cultural value. However, some argue it conflicts with human needs and development.

I. Introduction

II. Supporting View 1: Ecological Balance

  • Topic Sentence: Wildlife maintains ecological balance and supports ecosystems.
  • Example 1: In Kenya, elephants help shape the landscape and promote biodiversity.
  • Example 2: In India, tigers control herbivore populations, preserving forest health.
  • Example 3: In Australia, bees pollinate crops, vital for food production.
  • Analysis: These examples show how wildlife is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems.

III. Supporting View 2: Scientific Research

  • Topic Sentence: Wildlife is invaluable for scientific research and medical advancements.
  • Example 1: In Costa Rica, studying frogs leads to medical breakthroughs.
  • Example 2: In Madagascar, lemurs provide insights into evolutionary biology.
  • Example 3: In Tanzania, chimpanzee research aids understanding of human behaviour.
  • Analysis: These cases illustrate the importance of wildlife for scientific progress and health benefits.

IV. Opposing View 1: Conflict with Human Needs

  • Topic Sentence: Wildlife sometimes conflicts with human needs and safety.
  • Example 1: In India, human-tiger conflicts result in fatalities and livestock loss.
  • Example 2: In South Africa, elephants damage crops, impacting farmers’ livelihoods.
  • Example 3: In Australia, sharks pose a risk to swimmers and surfers.
  • Analysis: These examples highlight the challenges of coexisting with wildlife.

V. Opposing View 2: Hindrance to Development

  • Topic Sentence: Wildlife conservation can hinder economic development and infrastructure projects.
  • Example 1: In Brazil, protecting the Amazon rainforest limits agricultural expansion.
  • Example 2: In China, preserving pandas restricts urban development in certain areas.
  • Example 3: In Kenya, wildlife reserves sometimes limit land available for housing.
  • Analysis: These instances show how wildlife conservation can conflict with development goals.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Wildlife is essential for ecological balance, scientific research, and cultural value, but it can conflict with human needs and development.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Strive for a balanced approach that values both wildlife conservation and human progress.

Sport is human life in miniature. Discuss.

Sports enthusiasts opine that sports reflects life. Sport encapsulates many aspects of human life, including competition, teamwork, and personal growth, but it can also oversimplify and distort life’s complexities.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Sport reflects many elements of human life.
  • Background: Brief overview of sport’s role in society and its symbolic nature.
  • Thesis Statement: Sport encapsulates many aspects of human life, including competition, teamwork, and personal growth, but it can also oversimplify and distort life’s complexities.

II. Supporting View 1: Competition and Struggle

  • Topic Sentence: Sport mirrors the competition and struggle present in human life.
  • Example 1: In the Premier League, teams compete fiercely for the title, reflecting life’s competitive nature.
  • Example 2: The Tour de France requires immense endurance, similar to overcoming life’s challenges.
  • Example 3: In Japan, sumo wrestling showcases the dedication and effort needed to achieve success.
  • Analysis: These examples show how sport reflects life’s competitive and challenging aspects.

III. Supporting View 2: Teamwork and Cooperation

  • Topic Sentence: Sport emphasises the importance of teamwork and cooperation.
  • Example 1: In Spain, FC Barcelona’s “tiki-taka” style relies on teamwork and coordination.
  • Example 2: New Zealand’s All Blacks rugby team exemplifies unity and collective effort.
  • Example 3: In Germany, Bayern Munich’s success is attributed to strong team dynamics.
  • Analysis: These examples illustrate how sport mirrors the collaborative efforts required in life.

IV. Opposing View 1: Oversimplification of Life

  • Topic Sentence: Sport can oversimplify the complexities of human life.
  • Example 1: The intense focus on winning in Indian cricket oversimplifies the nuances of success.
  • Example 2: In Brazilian football, the hero-worship of players ignores the broader societal issues.
  • Example 3: In Russia, the emphasis on athletic achievement overlooks personal and emotional development.
  • Analysis: These examples highlight how sport can reduce life’s complexities to mere competition.

V. Opposing View 2: Distortion of Values

  • Topic Sentence: Sport can distort important values and priorities.
  • Example 1: In Italian football, corruption scandals undermine the integrity of the sport.
  • Example 2: The obsession with winning in Chinese gymnastics leads to unethical training practices.
  • Example 3: In Kenyan athletics, doping scandals distort the true spirit of competition.
  • Analysis: These examples demonstrate how sport can sometimes lead to unethical behaviour and distorted values.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Sport reflects many aspects of human life, such as competition and teamwork, but can also oversimplify and distort life’s complexities.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Sport is a valuable microcosm of life, but it should be viewed critically to understand its limitations.

Is courage necessarily a virtue?

Courage is often seen as a virtue due to its role in overcoming fear and achieving noble goals, but it can also lead to reckless or harmful actions.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Courage is admired in stories and heroes.
  • Background: Brief overview of courage and its traditional view as a virtue.
  • Thesis Statement: Courage is often seen as a virtue due to its role in overcoming fear and achieving noble goals, but it can also lead to reckless or harmful actions.

II. Supporting View 1: Overcoming Fear for Noble Goals

  • Topic Sentence: Courage helps people overcome fear to achieve noble goals.
  • Example 1: In India, Mahatma Gandhi’s courage led to India’s independence through non-violent resistance.
  • Analysis: Gandhi’s courage is virtuous because it achieved freedom without violence.

III. Supporting View 2: Promoting Justice and Integrity

  • Topic Sentence: Courage is essential in promoting justice and integrity.
  • Example 1: In South Africa, Nelson Mandela’s courage in fighting apartheid inspired global change.
  • Analysis: Mandela’s courage was virtuous as it fought oppression and promoted equality.

IV. Opposing View 1: Potential for Recklessness

  • Topic Sentence: Courage can sometimes lead to reckless or dangerous actions.
  • Example 1: In Russia, young daredevils who climb skyscrapers for thrills risk their lives needlessly.
  • Analysis: This form of courage is not virtuous as it endangers lives without noble purpose.

V. Opposing View 2: Harmful Consequences

  • Topic Sentence: Courage can have harmful consequences if not guided by wisdom.
  • Example 1: In some Middle Eastern conflicts, individuals show courage by joining extremist groups, causing harm.
  • Analysis: Courage in this context is not virtuous as it leads to violence and suffering.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Courage can be a virtue when it achieves noble goals and promotes justice but can also lead to recklessness and harm.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Courage must be guided by wisdom and morality to be truly virtuous.

Should we always extend kindness to others?

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Acts of kindness can transform lives and communities.
  • Background: Brief overview of kindness and its importance.
  • Thesis Statement: Extending kindness is generally beneficial and fosters positive relationships, but there are situations where it may not be appropriate or effective.

II. Supporting View 1: Promotes Positive Relationships

  • Topic Sentence: Kindness fosters positive relationships and social harmony.
  • Example 1: In Japan, cultural emphasis on politeness and kindness strengthens community bonds.
  • Example 2: In Denmark, the concept of “hygge” includes kindness and promotes social well-being.
  • Analysis: Discuss how kindness leads to stronger, happier communities.

III. Supporting View 2: Enhances Mental Health

  • Topic Sentence: Acts of kindness improve mental health for both giver and receiver.
  • Example 1: Studies in the UK show volunteering increases happiness and reduces depression.
  • Example 2: Kindness practices in Bhutan, influenced by Gross National Happiness, improve societal well-being.
  • Analysis: Examine how kindness enhances mental health and overall happiness.

IV. Opposing View 1: Potential for Exploitation

  • Topic Sentence: Kindness can sometimes lead to exploitation and dependency.
  • Example 1: In India, excessive kindness in business contexts may lead to unfair practices.
  • Example 2: In Greece, economic crisis showed how continuous kindness without boundaries led to exploitation.
  • Analysis: Discuss how constant kindness might lead to negative outcomes like exploitation.

V. Opposing View 2: Ineffectiveness in Certain Situations

  • Topic Sentence: Kindness is not always effective in all situations.
  • Example 1: In conflict zones, like parts of the Middle East, kindness alone does not resolve deep-seated issues.
  • Example 2: In competitive environments, such as in some South Korean schools, strict discipline is valued over kindness.
  • Analysis: Explore how in some situations, other approaches may be more appropriate than kindness.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While kindness is generally beneficial and fosters positive relationships, it may not always be appropriate or effective.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Strive for a balance, recognising when kindness is best and when other responses are necessary.