Mastering Argumentative Writing: Is Road Transportation Safer than Air Transportation? Composition English Grammar JSS 1 Second Term Lesson Notes Week 6

Lesson Notes: Composition – English Grammar JSS 1 Second Term (Week 6)

Teach JSS 1 students how to write an argumentative essay comparing the safety of road and air transportation. Includes structured examples and evaluation.

Lesson Plan

Subject:

English Grammar

Class:

JSS 1

Term:

Second Term

Week:

6

Age:

10-12 years

Topic:

Argumentative Essay

Sub-topic:

Road Transportation is Safer than Air Transportation

Duration:

40 minutes

Behavioral Objectives:

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Understand the features of an argumentative essay.
2. Differentiate between road and air transportation in terms of safety.
3. Write a well-structured argumentative essay on the topic.

Keywords:

Argumentative essay, road transportation, air transportation, safety, debate

Set Induction:

The teacher will ask students if they prefer traveling by road or air and why.

Entry Behavior:

Students are familiar with various modes of transportation and their features.

Learning Resources and Materials:

• Sample argumentative essay
• Debate points outline
• Whiteboard and markers

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge:

The teacher will relate the topic to students’ personal travel experiences and observations of transportation methods.

Embedded Core Skills:

• Communication
• Critical thinking
• Writing skills

Learning Materials:

1. Chart comparing road and air transportation
2. Lagos State Scheme of Work

Reference Books:

• Lagos State Scheme of Work for JSS 1
• English Grammar textbooks

Instructional Materials:

• Debate charts
• Examples of road and air accidents

Content

Features of an Argumentative Essay

1. Introduction:
   • Present the topic.
   • State your position clearly.
2. Body Paragraphs:
   • Include points supporting your position.
   • Provide counterarguments and refute them.
3. Conclusion:
   • Restate your position.
   • Summarize key points.

Steps to Writing an Argumentative Essay

1. Choose a stance: Agree or disagree with the statement.
2. Gather facts: Support your position with evidence.
3. Organize points: List arguments and counterarguments.
4. Write logically: Use persuasive language.
5. Conclude effectively: Reinforce your argument.

Sample Argumentative Essay

Road Transportation is Safer than Air Transportation

Transportation is essential for movement from one place to another. While both road and air transportation have their advantages, I strongly believe that road transportation is safer than air transportation.

Firstly, road transportation has fewer catastrophic accidents. Although road accidents happen more frequently, they are usually less severe than plane crashes, which often result in the loss of many lives. For example, a car accident might injure a few people, but a plane crash can kill hundreds at once.

Secondly, road transportation allows for greater control. Drivers can adjust their speed and route based on conditions, while pilots rely heavily on technology and weather conditions, which are not always predictable.

On the other hand, some people argue that air transportation is safer because it has advanced safety measures and fewer accidents compared to road transportation. However, when an air accident occurs, the chances of survival are very slim.

In conclusion, while air transportation has its advantages, road transportation is safer overall because it involves fewer severe accidents and allows for more control. People should prioritize safety and choose road travel for shorter distances.

Evaluation Questions

Fill-in-the-Blank Questions (with options)

1. An argumentative essay presents a _____.
   (a) story (b) debate (c) rule (d) law
2. The introduction of an argumentative essay should _____.
   (a) introduce the topic and position (b) list items (c) define terms (d) give instructions
3. A key feature of an argumentative essay is _____.
   (a) counterarguments (b) fictional stories (c) alphabetical listing (d) poems
4. In an argumentative essay, the writer must ____ their position.
   (a) support (b) oppose (c) ignore (d) list
5. The conclusion of an argumentative essay should _____.
   (a) introduce a new argument (b) summarize the essay (c) define terms (d) list steps

Short Answer Questions

6. What is an argumentative essay?
7. List two features of an argumentative essay.
8. What must a writer include in the body paragraphs of an argumentative essay?
9. Why is it important to address counterarguments in an argumentative essay?
10. What is the purpose of the conclusion in an argumentative essay?

FAQs (with answers)

1. What is an argumentative essay?
   An argumentative essay is a type of writing where the writer takes a position on an issue and supports it with evidence.
2. What makes an argumentative essay different from other essays?
   It involves presenting arguments and counterarguments.
3. What are the key features of an argumentative essay?
   Introduction, body paragraphs with arguments and counterarguments, and conclusion.
4. Can I include my personal opinion in an argumentative essay?
   Yes, but it should be supported with facts.
5. What is the purpose of addressing counterarguments?
   To strengthen your argument by showing why the opposing view is weaker.
6. Why is it important to organize points logically in an argumentative essay?
   To make the essay convincing and easy to follow.
7. What tone should be used in an argumentative essay?
   A persuasive and respectful tone.
8. Can an argumentative essay have more than three paragraphs?
   Yes, as long as it includes all necessary arguments and counterarguments.
9. What should you avoid in an argumentative essay?
   Avoid emotional language and unsupported claims.
10. How do you conclude an argumentative essay?
    Restate your position and summarize key points.

Presentation Steps

1. Step 1: Revision of the Previous Topic
   The teacher reviews narrative essay writing.
2. Step 2: Introduction of the New Topic
   The teacher introduces argumentative essays and explains their features.
3. Step 3: Student Contributions and Corrections
   Students discuss their opinions on the topic while the teacher guides and corrects.

Teacher’s Activities

• Explain the structure of an argumentative essay.
• Present points supporting and opposing the topic.
• Guide students in drafting their essays.

Learners’ Activities

• Share opinions on road and air transportation.
• Draft and write their own argumentative essays.

Assessment

Students will write an argumentative essay on “Road Transportation is Safer than Air Transportation” using the sample and structure provided.

Conclusion

The teacher reviews students’ essays, corrects errors, and provides feedback.