The teacher will walk the students through the Steps to Effective Argumentative Writing.
STEP 1 : Our topic has been identified for us: Cell Phones Should be Banned from Schools.
STEP 2: Identify the PROS and CONS of the topic using the PROS_andCONSGraphicOrganizer.docx. The teacher can do this on the Smart Board, or chart paper if that is what is available. She will demonstrate how to list the PROS, or arguments for the topic on the left side of the organizer. Suggestions:
PROS for banning cell phones in schools:
- Cell phones constantly disrupt student learning in class
- Students use them to send notes in class - another distraction
- In a crisis situation, overuse can overload communication systems
- Cell phones with internet access can promote cyberbullying
- Students can use cell phones to cheat during tests
- Cell phones can add to the spread of rumors and misinformation
- Cell phone cameras can be used to take pictures of students without their permission
CONS for banning cell phones in schools:
- Parents need to be able to stay in touch with their children
- Students can reach their parents in case of an emergency
- Cell phones can be silenced during class so not a distraction
- When in danger, students can reach the authorities or medical provider
- Create convenient forms of communication
- Have helpful tools, such as calendars, calculators, etc.
STEP 3: Create your claim, based on the pros and cons
Based on the PROS and CONS, my claim is going to be that cell phones should be banned from schools.
STEP 4: Choose the 3 best PROS or CONS. I will highlight them. (See the 3 that are bolded above.)
STEP 5: Complete the Argumentative Writing Planner. For each of the arguments, 3 details or evidence must be added.
STEP 6: This is where you do research, if necessary, to get facts, details and/or evidence. The teacher can let the students know that she did research on the internet to get her information. There are a lot of articles that deal with this subject.
STEPS 7 and 8 will be done in the Guided Practice.