I can not personally say if you should ban some topics or not. I understand why you put these specific topics on the banned list. One of them, we have already written about and the others are highly controversial.
Some of the topics could be personal to some and the others may cause a heated argument. Even though, this is a class of adults, some people do not know how to carry on a civilized discussion much less argue a point without getting out of hand.
I would prefer to choose my own topics. I am not a writer, by far: but I find it easier to write about topics I relate to or am familiar with. The papers we have written so far, have been difficult for me. I have had to do a lot of research, and I did not do well on the first one. I was very disappointed. I have also learned how to search for information in different ways, the database, reviews, and the Internet. I have recently returned to school, when I researched for papers before, I had to go to the library and search through books. I am grateful for my opportunity to expand my knowledge of what is out there waiting to be discovered.
I believe you ban topics because you can (ha, ha). Really, because you want your students to think beyond the box. These issues you listed are common arguments. I think you want us to use our brains to discover something within ourselves that we feel is an important argument, but may not realize just how important. This gives us an opportunity to discuss our side of the issue, and discover the opposing side.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Blog12: Children, are they adults?
My argument is how old should a child be legally, to get emancipated. It seems, teenagers know everything, can take care of themselves, and want to be the boss, they think. They do not realize we learn something new everyday, even adults. We take care of ourselves by going to work everyday, even when we do not feel like going. Finally, if you ask me, being the boss sucks. Boss makes you responsible for other people, bills, food, housing: I could go on and on.
Children think life is rough living at home with mom and dad. They complain because you ask them to clean their room or do a chore. If the children can not do a little work around the house how do they ever plan to make a living.
I know my children are a little spoiled. They have not done without anything. My children, for the most part, think life is easy. We as a family have had a rough time, but my children have grandparents who do not believe a child should work for what they get. I believe you get what you work for. There is no one standing out in the world just handing out thousand dollar bills.
I plan to argue a teenage child is not ready to live on their own. I realize in the sixties folks were married at fifteen and sixteen, but they were hard workers and more responsible. Today, from my own experience, children have their handout and do not want to work for what they get. I believe children need to get an education, stable job, and then worry about making it on their own.
Children think life is rough living at home with mom and dad. They complain because you ask them to clean their room or do a chore. If the children can not do a little work around the house how do they ever plan to make a living.
I know my children are a little spoiled. They have not done without anything. My children, for the most part, think life is easy. We as a family have had a rough time, but my children have grandparents who do not believe a child should work for what they get. I believe you get what you work for. There is no one standing out in the world just handing out thousand dollar bills.
I plan to argue a teenage child is not ready to live on their own. I realize in the sixties folks were married at fifteen and sixteen, but they were hard workers and more responsible. Today, from my own experience, children have their handout and do not want to work for what they get. I believe children need to get an education, stable job, and then worry about making it on their own.
Friday, March 8, 2013
Blog #10: Cash for Good Grades
When I was in high school, 1990-1993, there was an incentive program for honor roll students (all A's or A & B) and perfect attendance. One received free food coupons, movie passes, special lunches, etc. for doing well. I realize all student's are not straight "A" students, "A & B" students, and all may not even be able to attend school everyday; but all students should strive to do their best. I have not always been an honor roll student. In elementary school, I received resource help in reading. In junior high, I also struggled to do well, but I studied. I always turned in homework, I would do extra credit work, and above all I pushed to do my best.
I do and do not see a negative side. I realize because some may not be able to accomplish these goals it would appear to be unfair; especially, if one were truly doing their best. Also, something that could hinder a child from applying themselves, is an abusive or unstable home. In all reality, this is not the child's fault, but if the child were to be determined to make it in life they could push for the positive (good grades). Although, I believe most can accomplish these goals. One has to be willing to apply themselves and want to achieve.
The positive side, to this incentive program, is one has an opportunity to decide if the grade is worth the goal. Some are not willing to try unless there is a reward in the end. The good grade should be reward enough, but sadly for some it is not. I hope this program will help children achieve their goals and push those who may not have goals, to decide they want better for themselves.
I do and do not see a negative side. I realize because some may not be able to accomplish these goals it would appear to be unfair; especially, if one were truly doing their best. Also, something that could hinder a child from applying themselves, is an abusive or unstable home. In all reality, this is not the child's fault, but if the child were to be determined to make it in life they could push for the positive (good grades). Although, I believe most can accomplish these goals. One has to be willing to apply themselves and want to achieve.
The positive side, to this incentive program, is one has an opportunity to decide if the grade is worth the goal. Some are not willing to try unless there is a reward in the end. The good grade should be reward enough, but sadly for some it is not. I hope this program will help children achieve their goals and push those who may not have goals, to decide they want better for themselves.
Blog #9: Marijuana: Legal or Illegal
Personally marijuana is probably safer than other forms of medication. It is natural, unless someone adds a man made substance to it, the side effects are natural.
Do I agree one should alter their mind. No!, but what happens when alcohol is consumed, the outcome most often is worse. If medical marijuana is being used by patients who need it for comfort, to have an appetite and it is honestly benefiting them, sure. If the drug is being abused, taking away from needs of family members, or keeping one from a normal livelihood, then I would say it is not needed. Legalization of marijuana has become a sore subject at my house. I did not vote for the legalization of marijuana. My husband, who has lost his right to vote, was upset with me when he discovered this. I am no saint. I have had my experiences, but I also realized I wanted and deserved better for myself and my family. I do not believe marijuana makes one crazy, or effects ones driving ability; in fact it probably slows them down.
My issue is, like so many others things, it takes the place of a need. People will spend their last dollar on alcohol, cigarettes, or to get high; even if they do not have anything to eat, rent paid, or clothes on their backs.
Here is what I see, people are going to do what they want, legal or otherwise. If marijuana is legalized, it will be like buying a pack of cigarettes. If it is not , people will continue buying, smoking, selling illegally, and then be fined or go to jail when caught. One has to decide what is more important to them, abide by the law or take a chance and do what is illegal until it is legalized.
Do I agree one should alter their mind. No!, but what happens when alcohol is consumed, the outcome most often is worse. If medical marijuana is being used by patients who need it for comfort, to have an appetite and it is honestly benefiting them, sure. If the drug is being abused, taking away from needs of family members, or keeping one from a normal livelihood, then I would say it is not needed. Legalization of marijuana has become a sore subject at my house. I did not vote for the legalization of marijuana. My husband, who has lost his right to vote, was upset with me when he discovered this. I am no saint. I have had my experiences, but I also realized I wanted and deserved better for myself and my family. I do not believe marijuana makes one crazy, or effects ones driving ability; in fact it probably slows them down.
My issue is, like so many others things, it takes the place of a need. People will spend their last dollar on alcohol, cigarettes, or to get high; even if they do not have anything to eat, rent paid, or clothes on their backs.
Here is what I see, people are going to do what they want, legal or otherwise. If marijuana is legalized, it will be like buying a pack of cigarettes. If it is not , people will continue buying, smoking, selling illegally, and then be fined or go to jail when caught. One has to decide what is more important to them, abide by the law or take a chance and do what is illegal until it is legalized.
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