GYA Academy: Discussion Text Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Welcome back to GYA Academy Youtube Channel.
• Discussion topics that cause different opinions in society:
  • National Examinations
  • Online learning and working
  • New student admission rules
  • Social media impact on child development

Discussion Text Overview

• Definition: A text that presents a problem and discusses it from various points of view.
• Purpose: To show differing opinions about an issue, usually consisting of pro and con arguments.

Generic Structure of Discussion Text

1. Issue: Statement of the issue to be discussed.
2. Arguments (Pro): Points that support the presented issue.
3. Arguments (Con): Points that disagree with the supporting points.
4. Conclusion: The writer’s recommendation based on the discussion.

Example of Discussion Text

• Topic: The impact of watching television on our lives.
  • Paragraphs 1 & 2: State the issue (introduction).
  • Paragraph 3: Present pro argument (television has a good impact).
  • Paragraph 4: Present con argument (disadvantages of watching television).
  • Conclusion: General recommendation about the topic.

Language Features of Discussion Text

• Tense: Simple present tense.
• Modal Verbs: Should, may, can.
• Transitional Words: For instance, similarly, however, on the other hand, moreover, in addition, but.

Exercise Discussion

• Analyze opinions about homework and its effectiveness.
• Key points from the text:
  • Students can use evening time to review lessons (pro argument).
  • Homework is best given on weekends for effectiveness (con argument).
  • Meaning of words like "pointless" discussed in context.

Key Questions

• Question 1: Analyze student opinions on the effectiveness of homework.
• Question 6: Writer's suggestion about homework practices.
• Question 7: What motivates some students to study in groups?
  • Group members provide better ideas and support.
• Conclusion: Learning in groups can be effective but also has disadvantages.

Closing

• Hope you understand discussion texts better.
• Stay healthy and see you in the next video!