II.

Identifying the various viewpoints Date : HW on 2 July 2014

Read the discursive essay below
Complete the Discussion Web
List down the evidences to support a yes position and a no position
Come up with the conclusion


The existence of computers in the present world is a blessing in
disguise. What do you think?

The computer is a ubiquitous feature of modern life. Whether it is at a
restaurant paying the bill or going to the Automated Teller Machine to
withdraw money, we see the presence of computers. Yet there are many who
warn that our increasing dependence on it bodes ill for the world. On the
other hand, the benefits of the computer cannot be disputed.

Firstly, the computer is useful because it offers us a window to the world.
Unlike the TV that merely offers passive programmes, the computer allows
authentic communication with people around the world. The internet chat
lines offer us the experiences and lives of so many people of different ages,
nationalities and occupations. We make friends through this service, which is
more immediate and cheaper than any other forms of communication.

Also/ Next, the computer is a real blessing when it comes to the storage
and retrieval of information. Gone are the days when records had to be
retrieved from dusty storerooms and moth-bitten files. Instead, the computer
stores so much information and is so user-friendly that space and time are
saved. Thus, we have at our fingertips a wealth of information, the latter being
of great importance in todays knowledge explosion.

However, the computer is an easy machine to get addicted to. There are
many complaints from parents and teachers that students are so addicted to
their computer games, internet chatlines and internet surfing that they neglect
their schoolwork and even meals. This is a very unhealthy trend that must be
stopped before it gets worse.

Another drawback (disadvantage) is difficulty in policing what is
available on the games and in internet makes it a dangerous riot of
information and entertainment. If there are no effective controls, the young
people could have access to unhealthy materials like pornography and
excessive violence, which could in turn create social problems.

On the whole, the computer _______________________________________

______________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________




Introduction:
Acknowledging
a balanced
discussion of
given topic.


Para 2:
Advantage 1





Para 3:
Advantage 2





Para 4:
Disadvantage 1




Para 5:
Disadvantage 2



Para 6:
Conclusion.



Paragraph structure
Topic sentence: The computer is useful because it offers us a window to the world.

Elaboration/Explanation: Unlike the TV that merely offers passive programmes, the
computer allows authentic communication with people around the world.

Example: The internet chat lines offer us the experiences and lives of so many people of
different ages, nationalities and occupations.

Conclusion: We make friends through this service, which is more immediate and cheaper
than any other forms of communication.

The above model essay taken from:
O Level English Model Compositions (SAP)


DISCUSSION WEB
Computer is not all Good




















Computer is a
blessing in
disguise.
Some Advantages of Comp:
- Cheaper and immediate
way to make friends.
Disadvantages of Comp:
YES NO

Conclusion