Eed 121 - Argumentative Essay Draft

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EED 121-

ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
MARLENE CARSTENS- 4355028

BSC PHYSIOTHERAPHY
COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCE
MS NAUSHEENA DALWAI
Carstens M.C 4355028- Argumentative essay draft:

For a long time the debate surrounding whether social justice should begin at school level
sparked intense discussions and divided opinions in South Africa. On the one side of the
argument, opponents emphasize the importance of strict rules in schools, uniformity and a
conservative curriculum. They argue that discussions on social injustice can lead to tension,
conflict and fear among teachers and students. On the other side, proponents, like myself,
advocate for a more accepting and inclusive approach in schools. This essay will argue that
school should be a place where students should learn to embrace their diversity and
accommodate each other’s cultural and religious differences. In this essay I will discuss two
sub-claims to support my view namely, schools should acknowledge and celebrate cultural
and religious diversity among students and inclusion of diverse perspectives in the curriculum
promotes informed and empathetic citizens.

Schools should acknowledge and celebrate cultural and religious diversity among students
because in South Africa’s increasingly diverse and multicultural society it benefits students.
Not only does it benefit students, but it helps students with different backgrounds the
characteristics to succeed. (1) It encourages acceptance and prepares students to thrive in a
vastly diverse world. Proponents argue that strict uniform policies, that do not accommodate
cultural or religious diversity, fosters an environment of inclusion and acceptance. However,
research shows that when students feel accepted for who they are it enhances their overall
well-being and learning experiences. Students will only feel fully accepted when they are
able to live freely like who they really are and are allowed to express their cultural identities
through their attire, hairstyle and other forms of expression. Thus why promoting a culture of
respect and diversity is so important.

Inclusion of diverse perspectives in the curriculum promotes informed and empathetic


citizens. Proponents of social justice in schools argue for the support of justifiable
differences, not only in appearance but also in the school curriculum. Each student has a
unique learning style that needs to be recognized. Opponents advocate for conservative
curriculums in schools, but proponents believe that schools should be able to adapt to the
changing needs of students in today’s society. When students enter the professional world,
they join a vastly diverse working world. Students need to be able to interact with people of
all different backgrounds which will not be a challenge if exposed to diversity at a young age.
Students have to be able to communicate with their co-workers empathetically which will be
easily achieved by practice in school years.(2) Opponents argue that discussions on social
injustices in classrooms can ignite fear, unease and conflict between students and teachers.
Proponents are certain that avoiding these discussions will not address the root cause of social
injustices. It just perpetuates ignorance and reinforces existing inequalities. Schools can teach
students conflict resolution skills and the importance of constructive discussions. When
handled carefully, discussions on social injustices can lead to greater awareness and empathy
among students.

In conclusion, the debate on whether social justice should begin at school level is critical. My
standpoint as a proponent is clear: schools should be places where differences are embraced,
and justifiable differences are supported. Inclusive environments in schools can contribute to
a more accepting society. While concerns about conflict and fear are valid points, they should
not deter us from addressing the present issue of social injustice. They should instead
motivate us to teach more students how to engage in constructive and respectful discussions
about these important topics.
References:

1. Drexel University School of Education. (2020). The importance of diversity in the

classroom. Drexel University School of Education.

https://drexel.edu/soe/resources/student-teaching/advice/importance-of-cultural-

diversity-in-classroom/

2. ‌American University. (2019, July 24). The Benefits of Inclusion and Diversity in the

Classroom | American University. Soeonline.american.edu.

https://soeonline.american.edu/blog/benefits-of-inclusion-and-diversity-in-the-

classroom/

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