Author Archives: Mrs Tyrer
‘Refugee Boy’ by Benjamin Zephaniah: Should Alem be granted asylum in England?
We have been studying ‘Refugee boy’ by Benjamin Zephaniah in literacy and have just discovered that Alem, the key character in the story, has been denied his application for asylum in England. He now faces court where he will be questioned.
Focus for literacy: To create a persuasive speech in the role of Alem
Purpose: To persuade the court to reconsider their decision and grant Alem asylum in England.
Thinks to consider: Why should Alem be granted asylum in England?
Why is it not safe for him to return home?
Why should be remain in England? (Think about all the positive things Alem has achieved since arriving in England eg friendships, academic performance, the Fitzgerald family etc)
Remember those persuasive devices!
Why should companies sell Fairtrade products?
Questions to think about:
Do you think all products should be Fairtrade?
How does that affect the buyer?
How could you persuade companies eg Cadbury’s to sell more Fairtrade products?
Should the school day be extended to an 8am start and a 6pm finish?
There are proposals regarding the length of the school day. One of these proposals suggests that the school day should start at 8am and finish at 6pm. Do you agree?
Remember to make your argument clear, elaborate on your argument, use a range of conjunctions to link your ideas and use a range of persuasive devices.
Devices you may find useful include:
- Modal verbs – will, should
- Emotive language – appalling, remarkable, spectacular, detrimental
- Superlatives – best, most
You could also include a counter argument but remember to bounce back from it!!
Should the legal age to create a Facebook account be reduced to under 13?
The issue we will discuss is whether or not children under the age of 13 should be able to have their own Facebook account. At the moment, Facebook requires everyone to be at least 13 years old before they can create an account.
Key words/phrases that may help with your discussion include:
- Cyber bulling
- Safety online
- Interaction online
- Emotional pressure
- Social scrutiny
- True identity of others
- Keeping up to date with people
- Being able to share experiences
- Finding lost friends/family members
What are other people’s views? What are the counterarguments to your views? This will all inform your ‘Chance to Shine’ discussion that you will construct this week.
Remember:
- Elaborate on your views
- Show recognition of differing views
- QUESTION other people’s views if they’re not clear or detailed enough!
Should the legal age to vote be reduced from 18 to 16?
Hot debate!! Should the legal age to vote be reduced from 18 to 16? What are the arguments ‘for’ reducing it? What are the arguments ‘against’ reducing it? Remember, there’s no right or wrong answer! This is a discussion and we need to recognize different viewpoints. I look forward to reading what you find out! Happy Blogging!!