2008_02_Session_B_sample speeches
1. Is the Internet destroying family communication?
With the advent of technology, things that were impossible in the past are already within the reach of today’s generation. Internet is one of the greatest advancements that man has developed. Despite the benefits that we can get from having this technology, I believe that this also gives a negative impact on our lives.
First and foremost, the internet corrupts the time that supposedly allocated for the family. Online gaming and social networking are among the many things that the internet can offer, which at first are inviting and interesting, but once a person is hooked on these addictions, he could not possibly find time to spend talking with the family members. Secondly, with the lost of communication, children are the most affected ones for nobody can guide and remind them of what is right or wrong. Instead of going after the family values, the child would tend to be influenced by what he can have on the net. As a replacement for the absence of the adult, they would likely to imitate what they see on the internet and thus would generate problems in the future.
On the other side of the coin, the net encompasses any other means of communication when it comes to connecting people from different places. Because of this technology, it is now within the grasp of someone to be updated of the condition of the loved ones who are away from home. Moreover, this gives them the feeling of assurance that nothing bad happens.
From the points discussed, technologies, like the internet, that we are enjoying these days do not always yield positive or even negative effects especially when it comes to family communication. It is still up to someone on how he will use this tool to yield a desirable effect in the family.
(300 words)
2. Is there enough emphasis on important issues in politics today?
Schools play a vital role in molding the new generation to be a good citizen and along with this responsibility come a need to discipline these young ones whenever misbehavior arises. However, while it is true that discipline would yield a positive effect on youngsters, but imposing a rigid one would harm them in many ways.
Let me begin by stating John Dewey’s educational principle, “Learning by doing”. Young ones can easily learn in doing things by themselves. If discipline would be enforced, it might suppress them from performing activities that can possibly give worthwhile experiences because of the belief that once a mistake is committed, punishment will always follow. Therefore, children are likely forced to confine their actions in accordance to the school’s policy. In addition, they can’t freely do whatever they want to do and it can result to the impediment of learning. Next, students feel pressured with the implementation of rigorous discipline. Since students are still young, they deserve to enjoy. One way of having fun is not restricting them from doing the things and allowing them to discover on their own. Children learn best if freedom is given to them. But, despite this, schools must not forget to monitor the activities as these juveniles are vulnerable of committing mistakes.
To sum up, there’s no wrong in the implementation of discipline for it guides the student from doing the right things however; controlling them sternly isn't healthy anymore. It is in the school that children spend most of their day so in order to bring the best on them; stiff actions have to be avoided.
(272 words)
3. Would students benefit from stronger discipline at schools?
I believe that because of the presence of technology, it is now possible to be updated up to the latest issues especially in politics but, sad to say, most people are likely to be less interested believing that there are other things that are important to focus rather than political issues.
Firstly, most people don’t have time to spare on the issues that aren’t related to them. Politics, though categorized as a general issue that indirectly affects the citizens, does not fully grab the mass’s attention. Some might say that they are too busy to mind on that matter and actually do not have impact on their lives. Next, officials who are in politics try to obstruct the media from releasing information that might ruin their reputation. Consequently, all possible ways of inhibiting the news from circulating, even to the extent of taking someone’s life, are practiced by some. Proof to this is a considerable amount of media men around the world were killed because they knew something that might destroy the honor of these people. When it comes to the content and value, people are already satiated with almost the same political issues that seem to be of no solution. The general appears to be uninterested because of the unending controversies that surround the world of politics. Likewise, the real essence of establishing a body that would suppose to be of assistance fails the moment people behind have any other motive aside from serving.
Without good governance, the society would possibly be in chaos. However, without good people behind the system would yield the same effect. But with the present situation, people are already disappointed that resulted of turning their backs on essential government issues.
(286 words)
4. Does sumo have a role to play in modern Japanese society?
Beforehand, sumo wrestling was not only regarded as a crucial part of Shintoism but it also served as a way of ensuring good harvest through the form of ritual. After the passing of decades, the fascination towards this sport remains steady and it is even viewed as part of Japanese society these days that acts as a bridge to establish good relationship towards other countries and set a reminder of Japan's long history.
Despite the opinion of some people about the abolishment of sumo for it does not have any room in modern society, the perception is erroneous. Nowadays, it isn't only practice in Japan but in other countries as well and in fact, the sport continues to draw new fans and growing international interest. Hundreds of Sumo wrestlers of various nationalities earn comfortable livelihoods, participating in matches not only in Japan, but in Europe, North America and Britain. Grand champions achieve stardom and garner much respect from dedicated fans. Aside from gained international fame, sumo is already interwoven in our tradition and even in religion. Therefore, the need to be acknowledged by every Japanese citizen is vital to know farther and value Japan’s long history. Without this sport, there is possibility that the past will be forgotten.
With these views, no matter how technologically advance we may seem to be, traditional sport like sumo, must be given great importance since what we have now is all product of our customs and beliefs.
(248 words)
5. Is ecotourism good for the planet?
Since we are held liable for the present condition of the planet, it is consequential to let everyone know of its current status. One of the effective ways of disseminating awareness is through ecotourism in which tourists are allowed to see the natural habitat with less environmental impact. I strongly believe that by doing so would give funds for ecological conservation, protect from farther damage and respect the living creatures that thrive in the area.
Obviously, we are regarded as the greatest consumers of the natural resources. In order to live comfortably, we tend to consume the nature’s bounty without anticipating that these might run out in the coming years. Excessive logging, hunting, and mining are among of the many activities we engage in. and as what we can see now, a number of species are endanger of becoming instinct. But with the promotion of the environmentally friendly tour, people will have ideas that instead of inflicting more damage to mother earth; they must include themselves in the protection and preservation for the future generations. Aside from that, ecotourism provides direct financial benefits that will be used in conserving the biological diversity of each species. Funding is used for field studies aimed at finding alternative solutions to tourism and the diverse problems. A portion of the money earned will go to ecological programs like the one in the “Sharjah Breeding Center for Endangered Arabian Wildlife where as of the latest information, gained success in breeding cheetahs and leopards.
Given the great advantage over the other living things, it is our responsibility to ensure that the environment is still desirable to live in. Ecotourism serves as a good strategy of drawing people’s attention towards consciousness of conserving the planet called Earth.
(290 words)