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.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Blog #8: Women With A Voice
Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a woman of many words. She had a friend, Susan B. Anthony whom supported and helped her succeed in three areas: slavery, the right to vote, and religion. ?Stanton felt women should have a voice in making political decisions. She was the daughter of a lawyer and in turn married a lawyer. Elizabeth had an enormous respect for her gender; so much so, she did not speak the word "obey" in her marriage vows. Therefore, one is to believe she did not agree with slavery. It is amusing how a christian society believes in slavery, women not having a voice, and being told how to believe. This all sounds like slavery. I am Christian, but "slave" to God.
Stanton believed the same, I believe, but she wanted everyone to be treated fairly. God did plan for man to be our leader, but a godly man. Women, God made, to help man-support, love, and take care of them. Elizabeth's husband supported her ideas. She met her husband, Henry Stanton, while assisting fugitive slaves. Elizabeth was a pushing force and leader in trying to get support for women's rights. She would attend political, "man only," meetings; even if she was not invited. Elizabeth Cady Stanton and her colleagues were not alive to see women's rights become possible. Because of them slaves are free, women can vote, and religion is a choice. We should speak what we believe and push for what is right until it becomes reality.
Stanton believed the same, I believe, but she wanted everyone to be treated fairly. God did plan for man to be our leader, but a godly man. Women, God made, to help man-support, love, and take care of them. Elizabeth's husband supported her ideas. She met her husband, Henry Stanton, while assisting fugitive slaves. Elizabeth was a pushing force and leader in trying to get support for women's rights. She would attend political, "man only," meetings; even if she was not invited. Elizabeth Cady Stanton and her colleagues were not alive to see women's rights become possible. Because of them slaves are free, women can vote, and religion is a choice. We should speak what we believe and push for what is right until it becomes reality.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Blog #7: Phat with a PH or Is It Too Skinny
My opinion of anorexic and bulimic people is no different than overweight people, either one will die of health problems eventually. Neither is pleasant to look at. A person can be too skinny, and have bones sticking out, and the other can be too fat and have flab hanging. The difference is, are you dealing with an adult or a child. A child can be disciplined or made to eat, to a point. This article seems to be speaking of adults, people wanting attention. If you want attention become a healthy individual; one who has smooth skin, muscle tone, whose body has a figure,be pleasant to look upon. Or become an actor, singer, or someone who deals with the public on a day to day basis. Our bodies, even though we abuse them, do not belong to us. Our bodies were given to us by God. He gave us since to take care of them, so we may live long happy lives. I am overweight myself, so I really do not have room to talk, but I do understand the struggle of needing to take care of my body. It was a gift.
As far as a picture causing someone to become bulimic or anorexic, I hope not. I believe this to be a choice one makes for themselves. You have to love yourself for who you are not what someone sees or wishes you to be. Eat right, exercise, laugh and love as much as you possibly can, and most of all be happy with who you are, inside and out.
As far as a picture causing someone to become bulimic or anorexic, I hope not. I believe this to be a choice one makes for themselves. You have to love yourself for who you are not what someone sees or wishes you to be. Eat right, exercise, laugh and love as much as you possibly can, and most of all be happy with who you are, inside and out.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Blog 6: Books: Rated or Unrated
Children exploring life through books, and using or learning to use their imaginations is very important. Children gain knowledge by reading biographies and autobiographies, encyclopedias, maps, or any type of educational information. There are books written for all age groups, and yes I believe there should be a rating (G, PG, PG-13, R) on some. I also believe judgement by the parent should be made according to the maturity of the child. Some elementary students can read "Harry Potter" or even "Twilight." They are not going to understand parts, but they will understand the main story line. School libraries have a large assortment of books suitable for all ages. Parents need to be aware, if their child is using the public library or purchasing books, of the sexual content and possibly violence they may contain. I wouldn't want my teenage children reading "50 Shades of Gray". Teens have enough of this exposure through television. Children, I believe, are going to read what they understand and whatever is of interest to them. Unless a child has been abused or exposed to violence in some way, I believe they will choose age appropriate material. I hope children read to find adventure, hope, and love for what interests them in life. "It takes a village to raise a child," parents need to be a part of that village.
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