Question

Surgeon General Warns That Social Media May Harm Children and Adolescents
Teenagers Resent Social Media. They Also Resent Efforts to Take It Away.
Social Media is My Lifeline
Social Media’s Hidden Benefits for Teens
Unit 4 Lesson 12 Argumentative Essay Graphic Organizer

*Make a copy in Google Docs and do ALL writing in that document
in order to receive credit (see syllabus for more info)

(See the main U4 portfolio instructions document with article links HERE)

Introduction
Hook: Do Not ask a question. Make a startling statement or a fact about social media.

Background: What is the background behind this issue? Perhaps discuss the rise of social media and the various types of social media being used.

Thesis: State your main claim in third person objective voice. (You MUST take a stance in response to the writing prompt) This is where you state your topic and position (are you for or against social media


Body Paragraph I

Claim (What is a first reason you can give to support your thesis (claim/position?)

Evidence (Provide a direct quote from one of the provided articles to support)- remember to provide context to lead into your quote.

Analysis (Explain how this quote supports your claim in 2-3 sentences)

Concluding Sentence (restate your reason and why it is important.

Body Paragraph II

Claim (What is a second reason you can give to support your thesis (claim/position?)

Evidence (Provide a direct quote from one of the provided articles to support this should be a different article than you quoted above)- remember to provide context to lead into your quote.

Analysis (Explain how this quote supports your claim in 2-3 sentences)

Concluding Sentence (restate your reason and why it is important.


Body Paragraph III
COUNTERCLAIM (What is (are) reason(s) some people take the opposite stance? “Some people claim that ________; however, ________”)

Evidence (Provide a direct quote from one of the provided articles to show why their stance is incorrect or not a concern)- remember to provide context to lead into your quote. Be sure to use another article

Analysis (Explain how this quote supports your claim in 2-3 sentences)

Concluding Sentence (restate your reason and why it is important.

Conclusion
Restate thesis in different words

Connect the issue to the “bigger picture”-- why is your stance important? Why does this matter? Leave your reader with food for thought. This should be 2-3 sentences.


Instructions:

Carefully read the articles linked below and consider the risks and benefits of social media on young people. Based on the articles you’ve read and the opinions you’ve developed, write a six-paragraph essay in response to the following prompt:.


Social media is firmly embedded in our society, but there are concerns about its impact on the mental health of children and teens. You will take a position either for or against social media among the youth: Should children and/or teens be able to use social media? You must defend your reason.

Answers

GPT-4o mini
## Argumentative Essay: The Case for Social Media Among Children and Teens

### Introduction

Social media has become an integral component of modern life, particularly for adolescents, with the average teen spending over three hours a day on various platforms. The rise of social media is unprecedented, with applications like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok reshaping communication, socialization, and even self-identity. While there are legitimate concerns regarding the negative impacts of social media on mental health, such as increased anxiety and depression, it is essential to recognize the myriad benefits these platforms offer to children and teens. Social media, when used responsibly, provides valuable opportunities for connection, self-expression, and social learning.

### Body Paragraph I

One significant reason in support of social media usage among youth is its role in fostering connections and community building. As mentioned in the article "Social Media’s Hidden Benefits for Teens," “When teens find communities online that reflect their interests or support their identities, they often feel a sense of belonging.” This quote underscores the ability of social media to create spaces where adolescents can connect with peers who share similar experiences, interests, or challenges. The importance of community, particularly during formative years, cannot be overstated, as these connections can enhance emotional well-being and resilience. Therefore, social media serves as a crucial tool for adolescents to develop meaningful relationships in a digital age.

### Body Paragraph II

In addition to fostering connections, social media also offers a platform for self-expression and creativity. As highlighted in "Social Media is My Lifeline," “For many teens, social media is not just a way to keep track of friends; it’s a canvas for creativity and personal expression.” This statement reflects how social media allows youth to showcase their talents, share their thoughts, and engage with others creatively. The freedom to express oneself can lead to increased self-esteem and a more robust identity, which are critical aspects of healthy adolescent development. Thus, the ability to engage creatively on social media not only empowers teens but also encourages a culture of support and inspiration.

### Body Paragraph III

Some people claim that social media can lead to cyberbullying and feelings of inadequacy among adolescents; however, it is important to recognize that experiences on these platforms greatly depend on personal engagement and guidance. According to "Teenagers Resent Social Media. They Also Resent Efforts to Take It Away," “Many teens report that, while they recognize the potential downsides of social media, they also appreciate its capacity to facilitate support networks and communication.” This quote emphasizes that while challenges exist, many adolescents can navigate social media successfully and derive substantial benefits from it. Encouraging responsible use and digital literacy can mitigate negative impacts, reinforcing that social media can be a positive force in young people's lives.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, while there are valid concerns regarding the mental health implications of social media for children and teens, the benefits of these platforms in fostering connections, encouraging self-expression, and community support cannot be overlooked. It is critical to consider the role of social media as a tool for personal and social growth in an increasingly digital world. Promoting healthy usage patterns and supportive environments is essential in ensuring that social media serves as a constructive space for youth. Ultimately, understanding and embracing the positive aspects of social media is vital for the well-being of younger generations, as their futures are becoming more intertwined with the digital landscape.

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