Session 4 goal

Teachers will be able to recall how

to write a for and against letter
and essay, identifying and
discussing its main parts.
 Activity 1
Divide the text into four
paragraphs
Televisual media has become a pervasive force in the lives of families around the world today. Yet, a
central question remains regarding whether watching television is harmful or beneficial for children. An
analysis of this question reveals that television programs present two major concerns in the case of
children, including depictions of violence and the representation of poor moral role models. The lines to
come will provide better understanding. Television programs that portray violence are a paramount
concern for parents nowadays. Recent research has shown that children may commit acts of violence
because they wish to emulate the behavior that they see on television. Think for example of people who
rush from one place to other in order to be on time. This is especially true when violent acts are
committed by well-known action "heroes." In addition, television programs show cartoon figures, as well
as actors, committing violent acts. Using comic situations to depict violent themes causes further
problems with the way in which young people view violence. Unfortunately, there is a more appalling
side to this issue. Some parents are upset about the moral behavior depicted on television. As they
struggle to teach their children moral and ethical values, parents might despair about the lack of morals
and ethics represented in some of the so-called role models on television. For instance, certain
characters not only have no remorse for their immoral actions, but also frequently go unpunished by
larger society. This is something unacceptable. Because of these factors, many parents believe that
television programs send their youth the wrong kinds of messages. The emulation of this poor behavior
by their children is something they wish to avoid at all costs, I think there are more important matters to
spend the city funds on, and they have accordingly decided to ban television in their households for
these reasons. This is a good way to avoid the harm of the tube upon children.
 Televisual media has become a pervasive force in
the lives of families around the world today. Yet, a central
question remains regarding whether watching television
is harmful or beneficial for children. An analysis of this
question reveals that television programs present two
major concerns in the case of children, including
depictions of violence and the representation of poor
moral role models. The lines to come will provide better
understanding.
 Television programs that portray violence are a
paramount concern for parents nowadays. Recent research
has shown that children may commit acts of violence
because they wish to emulate the behavior that they see on
television. Think for example of people who rush from one
place to other in order to be on time. This is especially true
when violent acts are committed by well-known action
"heroes." In addition, television programs show cartoon
figures, as well as actors, committing violent acts. Using
comic situations to depict violent themes causes further
problems with the way in which young people view
violence. Unfortunately, there is a more appalling side to
this issue.
 Some parents are upset about the moral
behavior depicted on television. As they struggle to
teach their children moral and ethical values, parents
might despair about the lack of morals and ethics
represented in some of the so-called role models on
television. For instance, certain characters not only
have no remorse for their immoral actions, but also
frequently go unpunished by larger society. This is
something unacceptable.
 Because of these factors, many parents
believe that television programs send their youth
the wrong kinds of messages. The emulation of this
poor behavior by their children is something they
wish to avoid at all costs, I think there are more
important matters to spend the city funds on, and
they have accordingly decided to ban television in
their households for these reasons. This is a good
way to avoid the harm of the tube upon children.
 Activity 2

1. Circle the thesis statement (paragraph 1) and its corresponding restatement

(Paragraph 4)
2. Underline the Topic sentences in paragraphs 2 and 3
3. Cross out the 2 irrelevant sentences.
4. Put in parentheses the concluding / linking sentences of every paragraph
.
 Televisual media has become a pervasive force in
the lives of families around the world today. Yet, a
central question remains regarding whether watching
television is harmful or beneficial for children. An
analysis of this question reveals that television programs
present two major concerns in the case of children,
including depictions of violence and the representation of
poor moral role models. The lines to come will provide
better understanding.
 Television programs that portray violence are a
paramount concern for parents nowadays. Recent research
has shown that children may commit acts of violence
because they wish to emulate the behavior that they see on
television. Think for example of people who rush from one
place to other in order to be on time. This is especially true
when violent acts are committed by well-known action
"heroes." In addition, television programs show cartoon
figures, as well as actors, committing violent acts. Using
comic situations to depict violent themes causes further
problems with the way in which young people view
violence. Unfortunately, there is a more appalling side to
this issue.
 Some parents are upset about the moral
behavior depicted on television. As they struggle to
teach their children moral and ethical values, parents
might despair about the lack of morals and ethics
represented in some of the so-called role models on
television. For instance, certain characters not only
have no remorse for their immoral actions, but also
frequently go unpunished by larger society. This is
something unacceptable.
 Because of these factors, many parents
believe that television programs send their youth
the wrong kinds of messages. The emulation of this
poor behavior by their children is something they
wish to avoid at all costs, I think there are more
important matters to spend the city funds on, and
they have accordingly decided to ban television in
their households for these reasons. This is a good
way to avoid the harm of the tube upon children.
 Writing a
“for and against letter”
 DEFINITION
A "for and against" letter is a formal piece of writing in
which ONE topic is considered from opposing points of
view.

You should present both sides in a fair way by discussing them

objectively and in equal detail.
STRUCTURE OF A “FOR & AGAINST LETTER”
Introductory Paragraph
State the topic to be discussed,
without giving your opinion.

Arguments for
B Present the points for along with your
justifications, examples or reasons.
O
D Arguments against
Y Present the points against along with your
justifications, examples or reasons.

Concluding Paragraph
Restate the main points discussed.
State your opinion OR give a balanced
consideration of the topic.
 Plans to build a zoo in Trujillo.

Following meetings with members of the Town Council,

the Mayor has announced that he is planning to build a
zoo on the outskirts of Trujillo city in order to offer local
citizens and visitors a place to have fun with their
families, and raise awareness of animal life. Local
residents are divided on this issue. Many believe it to
be an excellent idea, while others are concerned about
it. The editor would like to know more about readers’
views on this proposal.
 Model 1

TASK: LETTER
You have read this article in your local
newspaper. Write a letter to the editor of
“La Industria” expressing what the pros and
cons of building a zoo in the city will be. Start
your letter: Dear editor,
 Model 2

TASK: LETTER
You have read this article in your local
newspaper. Write a letter to the editor of
“La Industria” expressing your personal
position on the construction of the zoo. Start
your letter: Dear editor,
PRE-WRITING ACTIVITY

BUILDING
A ZOO
IN TRUJILLO

PROS CONS
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
 INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH
Where did you
learn about the Summarize
issue? the issue
Dear Editor,

I recently read your article in the latest Contrast

edition of “La Industria” newspaper about positive and
the Mayor’s initiative to build a zoo to negative
provide families with another way of
entertainment. Such initiative has divided
citizens since there are strong pros and
cons to the idea. In the following lines, I
Linking
will briefly discuss both positions.
sentence
 BODY: Two opposite paragraphs
On (the) one hand, there are several arguments in favor of building
a zoo in our city. Those who are in favor of its construction claim that it will
provide citizens with a new option to spend time together. Despite the current
alternative offered by malls, beaches, fairs, and others; a zoo would be the Topic
perfect excuse to get away from the routine by making a short trip outsidesentence
the
city. What is more, people can take advantage of that time to strengthenintroducing
their
ties even more. In the same way, by having a zoo in our city, people would
arguments
have the opportunity to learn the importance of wildlife. By watching animals
up close, both children and adults would have more chances to understand
FOR
how beautiful animals are and why it is vital to preserve them. Unfortunately,
some conservationists have strong arguments against this issue too.
On the other hand, arguments against are also to be considered.
Those who are against zoos claim that they are bad for animals. It is estimated
that animals held in captivity don’t usually live as long as the ones in the wild.
In zoos, they barely exercise or do physical activities, thus reducing their life
Topic
span. Likewise, some consider the construction of this place would set thesentence
city
introducing
back financially. Currently, our city needs to tackle more serious issues like
fighting crime or improving public transportation. Therefore, spending money arguments
on a zoo would be a waste of money. These are the most voiced arguments AGAINST
against building a zoo in Trujillo.
 BODY: Paragraph 1 “FOR”
Topic sentence:
Controlling Idea
On (the) one hand, there are several arguments in
First
favor of building a zoo in our city. Those who are in favor
argument of its construction claim that it will provide citizens with
FOR a new option to spend time together. Despite the
current alternative offered by malls, beaches, fairs, and
others; a zoo would be the perfect excuse to get away
from the routine by making a short trip outside the city.
What is more, people can take advantage of that time to
Second
argument strengthen their ties even more. In the same way, by
FOR having a zoo in our city, people would have the
opportunity to develop awareness of the importance of
wildlife. By watching animals up close, both children and
adults would have more chances to understand how
(Concluding) beautiful animals are and why it is important to preserve
Linking
sentence them. Unfortunately, some conservationists have strong
arguments against this issue too.
 BODY: Paragraph 2 “AGAINST”
Topic sentence:
Controlling Idea
First
argument On the other hand, arguments against are also to
AGAINST
be considered. Those who are against zoos claim that
they are bad for animals. It is estimated that animals
held in captivity don’t usually live as long as the ones
Second in the wild. In zoos, they barely exercise or do physical
argument
AGAINST activities, thus reducing their life span. Likewise,
some consider the construction of this place would
set the city back financially. Currently, our city needs
to tackle more serious issues like fighting crime or
Concluding improving public transportation. Therefore, spending
sentence money on a zoo would be a waste of money. These
are the most voiced arguments against building a zoo
in Trujillo.
 CONCLUDING PARAGRAPH
Transition
Word
MODEL 1: Say your opinion

In balance, although there are two sides of a coin to

this story, I am against the construction of a zoo in the
outskirts of the city. Even though making such an
investment would be a plus for our community, I think
there are more important matters on which the city
funds should be spent.
State opinion
Yours sincerely, and restate
main points
George Reds Closing
 CONCLUDING PARAGRAPH
MODEL 2: Reserve your opinion
Transition
Word

In balance, it seems to be that the decision of

building a zoo in Trujillo city has to be carefully analyzed.
Local authorities have the responsibility to ponder the
long-term outcome of this project, and see if this will
bring more benefits than drawbacks for the city and its
residents.
Give balance
Yours sincerely, consideration of
the topic
George Reds Closing
Writing a “for and
against essay”
 DEFINITION
A "for and against“ essay is a formal piece of writing
in which ONE topic is considered from opposing
points of view.

You should present both sides in a fair way by discussing them

objectively and in equal detail.
STRUCTURE OF A “FOR & AGAINST ESSAY”
Introduction
Introduce the topic to be discussed,
Say there are for & against arguments
without giving your opinion.

Arguments for
B Present the points for along with your
justifications, examples or reasons.
O
D Arguments against
Y Present the points against along with your
justifications, examples or reasons.

Conclusion
Restate the main points discussed.
State your opinion OR give a balanced
consideration of the topic.
 Newspaper article:
THE CITY TIMES Information not to be taken into
account for the essay.
A decade ago, only a few people ventured to do some online shopping; it was a new way to
shop and people
Task were
A: skeptical of its reliability. However, a few years later, online shopping
changed into a more acceptable way to buy things. Nowadays, there are different reasons why
Not to be taken into account
people find shopping online to be an excellent alternative to shop for items. On the other hand,
others are still not quite convinced of its benefits.
Task A: Letter Task B:
Write an essay. Describe the arguments for and against online shopping. Give reasons and
examples to justify your ideas. Asks the student to contrast both
sides of an issue.
Task B: Essay Not necessarily related to the article.

Write an essay describing the

arguments for and against online
shopping. Give reasons and examples
to justify your ideas.
 Brainstorm / list ideas and key words.
PRE-WRITING
Put your points in a logical order.

Topic: Online shopping

 INTRODUCTION:
FOR AND AGAINST ESSAY
 TWO PARAGRAPH BODY

State both sides of an issue in independent

paragraphs.
 Develop paragraphs: write a topic sentence for
each paragraph (one paragraph – one main
topic). Give reasons and examples.
 Logically join short sentences, and paragraphs
with linking words.
 ESSAY INTRODUCTION
Two sentences
introducing
the topic

These days, online shopping has

become very popular around the Thesis
Statement
world. Some people who have Internet Contrasting
access find it fascinating while others positive
think buying goods online is not as and
negative
convenient as it seems. Virtual
purchasing has generated converse
positions among shoppers. Let’s
contrast some of the benefits and (Concluding)
Linking
drawbacks to online shopping. sentence
 TWO PARAGRAPH BODY

State both sides of an issue in independent

paragraphs.
 Develop paragraphs: write a topic sentence for
each paragraph (one paragraph – one main
topic). Give reasons and examples.
 Logically join short sentences, and paragraphs
with linking words.
 BODY: Two opposite paragraphs
There are several arguments in favor of online shopping. To start
with, shopping online is a very comfortable way to purchase. People can
buy in the comfort of their own home, thus avoiding the crowds and Topic
sentence
chaotic traffic, and there are not heavy bags to carry. Secondly, shopping
introducing
online is quick and easy. You can visit a number of different websites and
choose the item you want at the click of a button. And you can arguments
get
everything delivered to your door in no time. Unfortunately, not all that FOR
glitters is gold.
However, there are also arguments against buying things online.
One of the most serious disadvantages is that online shopping is
potentially dangerous. If shoppers do not use reputable sites, they can be
at risk of credit card fraud. People are not careful with their credit card
details, run a risk that someone may steal their personal information and Topic
password, and use their credit card. Another disadvantage of using sentence
the
net to shop on line is that sometimes it can be deceptive. Pictures introducing
on a
computer screen may not live up to people’s expectations. As products arguments
displayed cannot be touched or examined before buying them, clients AGAINST
may be disappointed when their purchase arrives. All of these negative
factors could be a cause of sorrow for the shopper.
 BODY: Paragraph 1 “FOR”
Topic sentence:
Controlling Idea

First
argument There are several arguments in favor of
FOR
online shopping. To start with, shopping online is
a very comfortable way to purchase. People can
Second buy in the comfort of their own home, thus
argument avoiding the crowds and chaotic traffic, and
FOR
there are not heavy bags to carry. Secondly,
shopping online is quick and easy. You can visit a
number of different websites and choose the
(Concluding) item you want at the click of a button. And you
Linking can get everything delivered to your door in no
sentence
time. Unfortunately, not all that glitters is gold.
 BODY: Paragraph 2 “AGAINST”
Topic sentence:
Controlling Idea
First However, there are also arguments against
argument buying things online. One of the most serious
AGAINST
disadvantages is that online shopping is potentially
dangerous. If shoppers do not use reputable sites, they
can be at risk of credit card fraud. People are not careful
with their credit card details, run a risk that someone
Second may steal their personal information and password, and
argument
AGAINST
use their credit card. Another disadvantage of using the
net to shop on line is that sometimes it can be
deceptive. Pictures on a computer screen may not live
up to people’s expectations. As products displayed
cannot be touched or examined before buying them,
Concluding clients may be disappointed when their purchase
Linking
sentence
arrives. All of these negative factors could be a cause of
sorrow for the shopper.
 CONCLUSION: State your opinion.

Transition
State opinion
Word and restate
main points

All in all, after having given careful thought

on both sides of the issue, it seems to me that
online shopping still cannot fully live up to the
expectations of buyers. Lack of direct contact with
the product added to the danger inherent in the
virtual world makes me stick to the traditional way
of shopping.
CONCLUSION: Give balanced consideration of
the issue. Give
Give balanced
balance
consideration
consideration of
of
Transition
Word
the topic

All in all, there are both advantages and

disadvantages to shopping online. It is
comfortable and convenient but it is also risky
and misleading. Therefore, people should
consider all the pros and cons before planning
to buy things online.
Don’t
state your
opinion
Activity 3
TASK:

Facebook has become the most popular social

network, being even used in a number of mobile
devices. The widespread use of Facebook has
generated converse positions. Write an essay
contrasting the benefits and drawbacks of using this
popular website.
 Things to consider to start an introduction

Start with an objective statement /state the topic to be discussed.

“These days online shopping has become very popular
around the world. People who have Internet access can buy almost
everything they want on a website .However, for some people
buying goods online is not as convenient as it seems. …

REMEMBER :Don’t state your opinion in the introduction.

Things to consider to start an introduction

Address the reader directly.

Every day, more consumers are using the Internet for financial
activities and one of them is shopping .Have you ever thought
about the benefits and drawbacks of online shopping? …
REMEMBER :Don’t state your opinion in the
introduction.
Things to consider to start an introduction

Start with a quotation or rethorical question.

Is it true that online shopping has become a common way to
shop? Is online shopping as good as it sounds? ….

REMEMBER :Don’t state your opinion in the

introduction.
 CONCLUSION

Remember:
In a closing paragraph, you can state your opinion or give a
balanced consideration of the topic.
-In conclusion, -To conclude, - To sum up,
-On balance, -All things considered, - All in all,
-Taking everything into account/consideration

Note: Opinion words (I think, I believe, In my opinion, etc.) can

be used in the closing paragraph.
 THINGS TO CONSIDER:

 Read your article and check the spelling,

grammar, punctuation, word order, synonyms.

 Use formal style, suitable vocabulary and DO

NOT use short forms (e.g. don't)