Rion’s Tutorials

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Starting a contribution in an Edexcel English Language B exam involves grabbing the listener's
attention, setting a clear tone, and presenting your point of view in a structured way. Here’s how
you can start a contribution effectively:

1. Acknowledge the Topic

You can begin by briefly stating what the topic is about to show that you understand it.

Example:

 “Today, I’m going to discuss the impact of social media on communication.”

2. State Your Position or Opinion (if applicable)

If the question is asking for your opinion, it's important to let your stance be known from the
start.

Example:

 “In my opinion, social media has made communication faster but more superficial.”
 “I believe that technology, while beneficial, also brings challenges in terms of
accessibility.”

3. Provide a Brief Overview of Your Points

Give a brief preview of the main ideas you will discuss in your contribution. This helps structure
your answer.

Example:

 “I will first talk about how social media has changed the way we connect with others,
then I’ll discuss its effects on face-to-face interactions, and finally, I’ll consider the long-
term impact on relationships.”
 “To explore the topic, I’ll be looking at the advantages of technology in education,
followed by its potential drawbacks, such as the digital divide.”
4. Use a Transition Phrase

Smoothly move into your first point. This can be a simple transition phrase or question that
engages your listener.

Example:

 “Let’s begin by examining the most obvious change that social media has brought to
communication—speed and accessibility.”
 “First, let’s look at the advantages of incorporating technology into classrooms.”

Example 1: On the Impact of Social Media

"Good morning. Today, I’m going to discuss the impact of social media on communication. In
my opinion, social media has made communication quicker and easier, but it has also led to a
decline in meaningful, face-to-face interactions. First, I’ll explore how social media has
increased the speed at which we connect with people, and then I’ll examine the effects it’s had on
the quality of those connections.”

Example 2: On the Role of Technology in Education

"Today, I’d like to talk about the role of technology in education. Technology has transformed
the way students learn, but it also raises questions about equal access to resources. To begin, I’ll
highlight how digital tools have made learning more interactive and personalized. Then, I’ll
discuss some challenges, such as the digital divide, and why it’s important that we address these
issues."

Contribution: The Importance of Technology in Education

"Good morning. Today, I’d like to discuss the importance of technology in education. In recent
years, technology has become an integral part of the learning process, transforming how students
access information, interact with their teachers, and engage in the classroom. In my opinion,
technology offers significant benefits, but it also presents some challenges that we must address.

Firstly, technology makes learning more interactive and engaging. For example, tools like
educational apps, videos, and interactive platforms such as Google Classroom or Microsoft
Teams allow students to actively participate in their learning rather than just passively listening.
Instead of traditional textbooks, students can now use tablets and computers to explore subjects
in-depth through videos, simulations, and online research. This increases engagement and helps
students learn in more dynamic ways.
Another advantage is that technology makes education more accessible. Students can access
online courses, tutorials, and resources at any time, from anywhere. This is particularly important
for students who may not have access to the same educational opportunities locally. The internet
breaks down barriers, allowing students from different backgrounds and locations to learn from
world-class educators. Furthermore, online education has proven invaluable during times of
crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, when schools were forced to shift to remote learning.

However, it’s also important to consider the challenges technology brings. One major concern is
the digital divide—some students, especially those in low-income or rural areas, may not have
access to the necessary devices or a stable internet connection. This creates inequalities in
education, as those without access to technology are at a disadvantage compared to their peers.
Addressing this issue requires investment in infrastructure and ensuring that all students have the
tools they need to succeed.

Another issue is the potential for distraction. While technology can aid learning, it can also lead
to distractions, especially with the presence of social media and gaming apps. Students may find
it harder to focus on their studies if they have easy access to entertainment on their devices. To
counter this, teachers and parents must work together to help students use technology responsibly
and for educational purposes.

In conclusion, while there are challenges, the advantages of technology in education far
outweigh the drawbacks. It offers students new ways to engage with learning, access resources,
and connect with others. However, it’s essential that we address the digital divide and encourage
responsible use of technology to ensure that it benefits everyone equally. Technology is here to
stay, and if we embrace it thoughtfully, it has the potential to revolutionize education for future
generations."

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