How to Write an Argumentative Essay – Herbal vs. Orthodox Medicine
Composition: Argumentative Essay – Herbal Medicines Are More Potent Than Orthodox Medicines
JSS 2 Second Term Lesson Notes – Week 5
Lesson Details
- Subject: English Language
- Class: JSS 2
- Term: Second Term
- Week: 5
- Age: 11 – 13 years
- Topic: Argumentative Essay
- Sub-topic: Herbal Medicines Are More Potent Than Orthodox Medicines
- Duration: 40 minutes
Behavioural Objectives
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Define an argumentative essay.
- Identify the key features of an argumentative essay.
- Present logical arguments for and against the topic.
- Write a well-structured argumentative essay.
- Use persuasive language and logical reasoning in writing.
Keywords
- Argumentative essay – A type of writing that presents arguments for and against a topic.
- Herbal medicine – Natural medicines made from plants, leaves, roots, and herbs.
- Orthodox medicine – Modern medicine based on scientific research, prescribed by doctors.
- Potency – The strength or effectiveness of a medicine.
- Side effects – Negative reactions caused by medicines.
Set Induction (Entry Behaviour)
The teacher asks students whether they or their family members have used herbal medicines or orthodox medicines. The teacher then initiates a discussion on their effectiveness, leading to the topic of the lesson.
Learning Resources and Materials
- Sample argumentative essays
- Chart displaying the structure of an argumentative essay
- Pictures of herbal and orthodox medicines
Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge
Students have previously learned about different types of essays, including narrative and descriptive essays. This lesson introduces argumentative essays, which require logical reasoning and persuasive writing.
Embedded Core Skills
- Critical thinking
- Logical reasoning
- Writing skills
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving skills
Lesson Content
Definition of an Argumentative Essay
An argumentative essay is a type of composition where the writer presents arguments for and against a particular topic. The goal is to convince the reader to support a particular viewpoint.
Features of an Argumentative Essay
- Introduction – Introduces the topic and states the writer’s position.
- Arguments for the motion – Presents reasons supporting the topic.
- Arguments against the motion – Presents counterarguments opposing the topic.
- Conclusion – Summarizes the points and reinforces the writer’s stance.
Class Activity Discussion
10 FAQs with Answers
-
What is an argumentative essay?
- It is a type of writing where the writer argues for and against a topic.
-
What is the purpose of an argumentative essay?
- To persuade the reader to accept a particular point of view.
-
What are herbal medicines?
- They are medicines made from natural plants, roots, and herbs.
-
What are orthodox medicines?
- They are scientifically developed medicines prescribed by doctors.
-
What is potency in medicine?
- It refers to how strong and effective a medicine is.
-
What are the advantages of herbal medicines?
- They are natural, have fewer side effects, and are affordable.
-
What are the disadvantages of herbal medicines?
- They are not well-regulated, and their dosage is uncertain.
-
What are the advantages of orthodox medicines?
- They are scientifically tested, have clear dosages, and treat diseases quickly.
-
What are the disadvantages of orthodox medicines?
- They may have serious side effects and can be expensive.
-
How should an argumentative essay end?
- With a conclusion that summarizes the points and reinforces the writer’s opinion.
Sample Argumentative Essay
Topic: Herbal Medicines Are More Potent Than Orthodox Medicines
Introduction
Over the years, people have debated whether herbal medicines are more potent than orthodox medicines. Some believe that herbal medicines are more effective because they are natural and have been used for centuries. Others argue that orthodox medicines are better because they are scientifically tested. In this essay, I will discuss both sides of the argument.
Arguments for Herbal Medicines
- Natural and Less Harmful – Herbal medicines are made from natural plants and do not contain harmful chemicals. This makes them safer with fewer side effects.
- Used for Centuries – Traditional medicine has been used for generations to treat various illnesses. Many people trust herbal remedies because they have been effective for a long time.
- Affordable and Accessible – Herbal medicines are cheaper and can be easily found in local markets, unlike orthodox medicines, which are expensive.
- Treats the Root Cause – Herbal medicines focus on overall health and treat the root cause of diseases, not just the symptoms.
Arguments for Orthodox Medicines
- Scientifically Tested – Orthodox medicines go through rigorous testing before they are approved for use. This ensures that they are safe and effective.
- Precise Dosage – Orthodox medicines have exact dosages, making them more reliable. Herbal medicines often lack proper dosage instructions.
- Faster Recovery – Many orthodox medicines work quickly and can treat diseases in a short period, unlike herbal medicines, which may take longer.
- Specialized Treatment – Orthodox medicines are made for specific diseases, making them more effective for serious illnesses like cancer and diabetes.
Conclusion
Both herbal and orthodox medicines have their advantages and disadvantages. While herbal medicines are natural, affordable, and used for centuries, orthodox medicines are scientifically tested, have precise dosages, and offer faster recovery. In my opinion, orthodox medicines are more reliable because they have been proven to be safe and effective. However, herbal medicines should also be researched and improved to ensure their safety.
Evaluation (Assessment Questions)
Fill in the blank with the correct option (a, b, c, or d):
-
An argumentative essay presents ___.
a) Only one side of an argument
b) Arguments for and against a topic
c) A story about a past event
d) A summary of a textbook -
The introduction of an argumentative essay should ___.
a) Contain only the writer’s personal opinion
b) Introduce the topic and state the position
c) Be full of jokes and informal words
d) Contain unrelated information -
Which of the following is NOT an advantage of herbal medicines?
a) They are made from natural plants
b) They have fewer side effects
c) They are tested in laboratories
d) They are affordable -
A major disadvantage of orthodox medicine is that ___.
a) It works too fast
b) It is scientifically tested
c) It can have serious side effects
d) It is natural -
The conclusion of an argumentative essay should ___.
a) Present new arguments
b) Summarize the points and reinforce the opinion
c) Be completely unrelated to the topic
d) Contain informal language
Conclusion
The teacher summarizes the lesson, emphasizing the structure of an argumentative essay. Students are given a practice exercise to write their own essay on a similar topic.