For and Against: Technology in Schools
Discussion Topic
Should schools replace textbooks with tablets and laptops?
- Access to up-to-date resources and information
- Interactive learning tools and multimedia
- Prepares students for a digital workplace
- Lighter bags, all materials in one device
- Screens can be distracting in the classroom
- Not all families can afford devices
- Reading from paper may aid memory retention
- Technical problems can disrupt lessons
Which side do you agree with more? Discuss with your teacher before reading the essay below.
Model Essay
Read this for-and-against essay. Hover over the highlighted sections to see notes about the writing.
Hover over highlighted text for writing notes
Should Schools Replace Textbooks with Tablets?
Technology has transformed almost every aspect of modern life, and education is no exception. In recent years, many schools have begun replacing traditional textbooks with tablets and laptops. While there are clear benefits to using digital devices in the classroom, there are also significant concerns that should not be overlooked.
On the one hand, digital devices offer students access to a vast range of resources that would be impossible to fit into a single textbook. With a tablet, a student can watch a documentary, complete an interactive quiz, and read the latest research on a topic, all within a single lesson. It could be argued that this kind of flexibility makes learning more engaging and better suited to different learning styles.
On the other hand, there are valid reasons to be cautious. Screens can be a source of distraction, particularly in younger age groups where self-discipline is still developing. Furthermore, not all students have equal access to technology at home, which may create an unfair gap between those who can practise and those who cannot.
Moreover, some research suggests that reading from a printed page helps with concentration and memory retention more effectively than reading from a screen. While technology is undoubtedly a powerful tool, it is also worth considering whether it should replace traditional methods entirely or simply complement them.
In conclusion, both sides of this debate have merit. Technology can enhance education in ways that were previously unimaginable, but it is not without its drawbacks. Perhaps the most sensible approach is to use technology as a supplement to traditional teaching rather than a complete replacement.
Analyse the Essay
1 What is the main purpose of the first paragraph?
B) The introduction sets up the topic and uses "While there are clear benefits... there are also significant concerns" to signal a balanced discussion.
2 Which connector does the writer use to introduce the opposing argument?
C) On the other hand. "Furthermore" and "Moreover" add to the same side of the argument. "On the other hand" signals a shift to the opposing view.
3 Why does the writer say "it could be argued that" instead of "it is true that"?
A) This is hedging language. It presents the argument as a reasonable possibility rather than an absolute truth. This is a key feature of balanced academic writing.
4 What position does the writer take in the conclusion?
B) The writer suggests technology should be "a supplement to traditional teaching rather than a complete replacement". This is a nuanced, balanced conclusion.
Practice
Activity 1: Place the connectors
Drag the formal connectors into the correct gaps to complete this paragraph about remote working.
Example: However is used to introduce a contrasting point.
, remote working allows employees to manage their own schedules and avoid long commutes. , many workers report higher productivity when working from a quiet home environment.
, there are also drawbacks. Some employees find it difficult to separate their work life from their home life. , while remote working offers significant advantages, a balanced approach that combines office and home working may be the most effective solution.
Activity 2: Rewrite with hedging language
The sentences below are too direct for a for-and-against essay. Rewrite each one using a hedging phrase to soften the claim.
Example: "Phones are bad for children." → It could be argued that phones have a negative effect on children.
5 "Online learning is better than face-to-face teaching."
Example answers: "It could be argued that online learning offers certain advantages over face-to-face teaching." / "While online learning has its benefits, it may not necessarily be better than traditional classroom teaching."
6 "Social media always has a negative effect on teenagers."
Example answers: "There is some evidence to suggest that social media may have a negative effect on certain teenagers." / "While social media can be harmful, it would be an oversimplification to say it always affects teenagers negatively."
7 "Exams are the worst way to test students."
Example answers: "It is widely believed by some educators that exams may not be the most effective method of assessing student ability." / "Some people would argue that exams are not always the fairest way to measure what students have learnt."
Your Writing Task
Write a for-and-against essay on the following topic:
"Social media does more harm than good for young people."
Write a balanced essay discussing arguments on both sides. Include:
- An introduction that presents the topic and signals both sides
- At least two arguments for and two against
- Formal connectors to link your ideas (on the one hand, however, furthermore, etc.)
- Hedging language where appropriate (it could be argued, may, some evidence suggests)
- A balanced conclusion with your own view
Useful Language
- Introducing sides:
On the one hand, ...On the other hand, ... - Adding points:
Furthermore, ...Moreover, ...In addition, ... - Contrasting:
However, ...Nevertheless, ...Despite this, ... - Hedging:
It could be argued that ...... may / might ...There is some evidence to suggest ... - Concession:
While it is true that ..., it is also ...Although ..., ... - Concluding:
In conclusion, ...On balance, ...Taking everything into account, ...