Discussion Text (Social function, structure of text, and language features)

Summary

In this video from Madame English YouTube channel, viewers learn about discussion texts and their structure. The video explains how a discussion text presents multiple perspectives on a topic, supports viewpoints with reasons and evidence, and often concludes with a personal opinion. It uses the debate over allowing cell phones in schools as an example, weighing the pros—such as emergency communication and educational tools—against the cons—like distractions, misuse, and cyberbullying. The video encourages viewers to reflect on the issue, engage in group discussions, and share their opinions.

Takeaways

• 😀 A discussion text informs readers about a particular topic by presenting different viewpoints and perspectives.
• 😀 The structure of a discussion text usually starts with an introduction, followed by presenting various viewpoints, and ends with a conclusion or personal opinion.
• 😀 Simple present tense is commonly used in discussion texts, but other tenses can also be used to express arguments, facts, or opinions.
• 😀 Arguments and conjunctions help make the text more coherent and logically structured.
• 😀 The question of whether cell phones should be allowed in school is an example of a topic suitable for a discussion text.
• 😀 One viewpoint in the cell phone debate is that they provide safety benefits, like emergency communication with parents or guardians.
• 😀 Cell phones can enhance education by providing access to educational apps, digital textbooks, online resources, and enabling collaboration among students.
• 😀 On the other hand, cell phones can be distracting in the classroom, leading to a decrease in attention and academic performance.
• 😀 Misuse of cell phones can include activities like cheating, cyberbullying, or sharing inappropriate content, making it a concern in schools.
• 😀 A balanced decision on whether to allow or restrict cell phones should consider both their potential benefits and the risks they present to students.
• 😀 Viewers are encouraged to reflect on the cell phone debate and share their opinions by writing them down or presenting them through creative means like posters or videos.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of a discussion text?

The main purpose of a discussion text is to inform readers about a particular topic, issue, or question by presenting different perspectives, opinions, or arguments.

How does a discussion text typically begin?

A discussion text usually begins with an introduction to the topic, followed by the presentation of different viewpoints or perspectives.

What tense is primarily used in a discussion text?

In a discussion text, the simple present tense is primarily used, but other tenses can also be employed to express facts, arguments, and opinions.

What role do conjunctions play in a discussion text?

Conjunctions are used in a discussion text to make the text coherent by linking ideas and sentences together.

What are some examples of arguments presented in the cell phone debate in schools?

Some arguments in favor of allowing cell phones in schools include enhancing communication, improving safety, and providing educational resources. Arguments against them include distractions, academic decline, and potential misuse such as cyberbullying or cheating.

What are the potential educational benefits of allowing cell phones in school?

Cell phones can serve as educational tools, providing access to digital textbooks, educational apps, online resources, and enabling collaboration on projects and research.

What are the risks associated with allowing cell phones in school?

The risks include distractions leading to reduced attention in class, cheating during exams, cyberbullying, inappropriate behavior, and misuse of the devices for non-educational purposes.

What should schools consider when deciding to allow or restrict cell phones?

Schools should consider a balance of factors such as safety, educational enrichment, and behavioral management, while taking into account the unique needs and circumstances of each school community.

How can cell phones contribute to student safety in schools?

Cell phones provide students with a way to contact parents, guardians, or emergency services in case of accidents, illnesses, or security threats, enhancing a sense of safety and security.

What activity is recommended after watching the video on the cell phone debate?

After watching the video, students are encouraged to write their thoughts on the issue, either on paper, in a presentation, infographics, or a video, and then present the results in front of the class.