ENGLISH 10

WEEK 1 - LANGUAGE OF RESEARCH, CAMPAIGNS AND ADVOCACIES

LECTURE NOTES
(Copy this on your notebook)

LECTURE # 1

RESEARCH
• is an imperative area in not just the field of education, but in other fields as well.
• it primarily focuses upon improving quality and is research for knowledge (Kapur, 2018)
• It shows how to make provisions of solutions to a problem in a scientific and methodical manner.
• can help you understand research answers to important problems.
• It can also help you read academic texts (and tests) more easily.

THE RESEARCH PROCESS

Research starts with a question or a problem. Researchers first find out what others have already
learned about the subject.
If the question has not been fully answered, they figure out a way to get more information. They
may do further observations or perform an experiment to evaluate their idea.
Next, they analyze the data (information) they have collected. Then they publish their procedures,
data, and conclusions. This allows other scientists to repeat the experiments and double-check the
conclusions.
Example, the “COVID-19 injectables” (best proof) of clinical research is a double-blind trial. That is an
experiment with two (or more) groups of people in which only one group receives the drug or treatment
being evaluated. The other group gets a placebo. (A placebo is a “sugar pill” or other treatment that looks
and feels like the experimental treatment but has no active ingredients. Any effect it has are
psychological—because the participants expect it to work.)
A “double-blind” experiment gets its name because both the researchers and the participants are
“blind” during the test. Nobody knows until the experiment has finished which group got the treatment and
which group got an inactive placebo. That helps prevent people's expectations from distorting (twisting or
changing) the results.
The treatment being evaluated should give significantly better results than the placebo. If not, any apparent
difference it makes may be due to people’s hopes and expectations. So, a double-blind trial is a way to
check the effectiveness of a treatment.

You will be encountering these words in research, like design, data, significance, evidence,
treatment, experiment, conclusions, observations, and statistics.

Let us have them briefly for you to be familiarized with these words of research.

DEFINITION OF TERMS
Design – it is to plan (or a plan of) how something will be made or done.
Data – these are collected facts or information.
Significance – these are important data and meaningful findings in research.
Evidence - observations or information that can help solve a crime or show whether something is true or
false.
Treatment - it is the course of action designed for research
Experiment - it is a test to see what happens when all factors (variables) but one is controlled.
Conclusion - it is a summary of what has been learned or shown at the end of a study.
Observation - it is looking carefully at something
Statistics - it is the organization and study of numerical data.

There are several reasons research results can be misleading. There may be flaws in the research
design. Researchers may make mistakes during the experiment or when analyzing the data. They may
even be biased: wanting certain results so much that they influence the results.
Sometimes groups that might profit from the results pay for the research but only report it if they get the
results they want.
Well, we have more research languages. You can read more on or from the internet to expand
your learnings about research.
CAMPAIGN
• this can be a single ad or a series of ads.
• it has ads that revolve around a single idea.
• it provides a framework in which processes of advocacy that can be easily developed and
enclosed.
• it has varying purposes, they are created using similar structures, as well as using persuasive
language to convince audiences to perform a certain function

5 DIMENSIONS OF A CAMPAIGN
1. AWARENESS RAISING
This is intended to make the problem to be addressed known by the public.
Example:

2. RESEARCH
Another dimension that is based on research, since it provides the necessary knowledge to act.
Many stakeholders are involved here for the complexity of the topics.

Example: EXPERIMENTING TO COME UP WITH A VACCINE TO CURE COVID 19.

3. SOCIAL MOBILIZATION
These are used by grassroots-based social movements, but also as a tool for the elite and the
state itself.
involves a lot of diverse groups like, civic organizations, religions, and actions of members of
institutions like, mass meetings, processions, and demonstrations.

EXAMPLE: EDSA REVOLUTION, HUMAN RIGHTS RALLY

4. TRAINING
It is the process focused on a clear and specific target. It further develops the contents, but also
the scope and the vision. It runs in a mid-term and long-term scenario to get in-depth into the topic.
It completes the information-understanding cycle.

EXAMPLE: TRAINING POLICE FOR PROPER ACTIONS ON CRIME, TRAINING FOR

TEACHERS TO UPDATE THEM ON TEACHING STRATEGIES, TRAININGS FOR NURSES
FOR NEW PRACTICES IN CARING FOR PATIENTS.

5. LOBBYING
It is an act to influence decisions made by officials in the government. It is amazingly effective since
it points directly to the legislator and regulatory agencies.

EXAMPLE: POLITICS OF COALITION-BUILDING FOR DEMOCRATIC REFORM: A

PHILIPPINE EXPERIENCE

ADVOCACY
It is an action for a cause or purpose such as a media campaign of an non-government organization or
NGO that works for human rights to find shareholders and partners to sustain its activity.
Advocacy and Campaign are sometimes seen as synonymous terms, both are terms for all forms of
influencing or convincing others.
 EXAMPLE OF ADVOCACY: SELF-ADVOCACY
SELF - ADVOCACY ACCOMMODATIONS STEPS IN REQUESTING FOR
• To speak up and ask for Changes that can be ACCOMMODATIONS
what you need. made that will help you F – face the person in charge
• Self - advocacy helps you succeed or reach your E – maintain eye contact
take charge of your life and goals S - state the accommodation and the reason
be more independent T – thank the person
A - accommodation is used

WRITTEN OUTPUT #1
UNRAVEL ME PLEASE!
Direction: Solve the puzzle below. Use the list of words and clues below. Please use a clean sheet of
paper for your answers.

List of Words: false, experiment, outcomes, data, statistics, impact, treatment, evidence, flawed,
demonstrate, withhold, error, observation, target, collaborate, design, distorted, conclusion, bias,
interactions, significant, benefits

CROSS
3. good or positive effects
9. to work together
11. twisted, presented in a way to encourage
false conclusions
13. a researcher’s desire to get certain results
rather than others
15. collected facts or information
16. the ways two or more medications (or other
things, or people) affect each other
19. observations or information that can help
solve a crime or show whether something is true
or false
DOWN
1. to plan (or a plan of) how something will be
made or done
2. hold back or hide some information
(That might change the results)
4. the organization and study of numerical data
5. the results at the end of a test or trial
6. what has been learned or shown at the end of
a study
7. show
8. important, meaningful
 20. a strong effect 10. looking carefully at something
21. the course of action designed to help a 12. a test to see what happens when all factors
patient (variables) but one is controlled
22. mistake 14. the goal researcher aims for
17. badly designed; with errors
18. not true

WRITTEN OUTPUT #2
Activity 2: What Am I?
The activity above shows how many terms are found in research alone. Let us now know about
campaigns used in advertisements.
Direction: Identify the product for its famous slogan. Write your answers on a clean piece of paper

SLOGAN PRODUCT
1. “Just Do It!”
2. “Langhap sarap. Bida ang sarap!”
3. “Obey your thirst!”
4. “Have a break. Have a _!”
5. “We find ways…”
6. “Finger lickin’ good!”
7.” Inspire the World, Create the Future”
8. “This Changes Everything. Not Most Everything.”
9. “Impossible Is Nothing”
10. “To inspire and nurture the human spirit - one person, one cup,
and one neighborhood at a time.”

PERFORMANCE TASK #1: BRAND ME!

Direction: Make a campaign and advocacy of the topics. Use advertisement, slogan, and a short
statement to persuade the audience to stand for your cause.
A. COVID 19
B. New Normal in Education
C. Philippines Rises Amidst the Deadly Illness
D. Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Gender Expression.
E. Mental health

RUBRICS for the Activity

CRITERIA GREAT (10 PTS.) VERY GOOD (8 PTS.) GOOD (6 PTS.) NICE (4 PTS)

CONTENT • the idea is relevant to • the idea is relevant; • the idea is a bit • the idea is not
the theme. however, it lacks some not relevant to the relevant to the
points relevant to the theme and lacks theme.
theme the points of the
theme
ORIGINALITY • The slogan is original • The slogan is original • The slogan is • The slogan was
and creative. and eye-catching. original but lacks copied and has no
impact. impact at all.

MECHANICS • Words used in the • Words used in the • Words used in • Words used
slogan are perfectly slogan are appropriate the slogan are in the slogan were
relevant to the theme. for the theme slightly not appropriately y
appropriate to the chosen for the
theme. theme

QUIZ #1
Instruction: Read and answer the questions and illustrations below. Please use a clean sheet of paper
for your answers.

1. __________ has ads that revolve around a single idea.

a. Advocacy b. Campaign c. Research d. Advertisement

2. It provides a framework in which processes of advocacy can be easily developed and enclosed.
a. Advocacy b. Campaign c. Research d. Advertisement
3. It is a political tool by which an individual or group aims to influence public policy and resource
allocating decisions within political, economic, and social system and institutions.
a. Advocacy b. Campaign c. Research d. Advertisement

4. It is used by grassroots-based social movements and a tool for the elite and the state itself.
a. Training b. Lobbying c. Mobilization d. Grassroots

5. It is a movement which uses the people in each area as the basis for political or economic movement.
a. Training b. Lobbying c. Mobilization d. Grassroots

6. This is a process focused on a clear and specific target.

a. Training b. Lobbying c. Mobilization d. Grassroots

7. This involves a lot of diverse groups like civic and religious organizations, particularly the members of
institutions.
a. Training b. Lobbying c. Mobilization d. Grassroots

8. This is an act to influence decisions made by officials in the government.

a. Training b. Lobbying c. Mobilization d. Grassroots

9. It is the other dimension that is based on fact-finding and provides the necessary knowledge to act.
a. Advocacy b. Campaign c. Research d. Advertisement

10. It includes many different stakeholders involved for the complexity of the topics usually chosen; like,
academics, partnership with universities and field data and interviews.
a. Advocacy b. Campaign c. Research d. Advertisement

WEEK 2 - CONNECTING IDEAS USING CONJUNCTIONS IN AN ARGUMENTATIVE TEXT

LECTURE NOTES
(Copy this on your notebook)

LECTURE # 2

A conjunction is the glue that holds words, phrases, and

clauses (both dependent and independent) together. There
are three distinct kinds of conjunctions -- coordinating,
subordinating, and correlative -- each serving its own, distinct
purpose, but all working to bring words together.

Example:

Peter and Paul are best friends.

(The word “and” is a conjunction. It is joining two entities, which
are Peter, Paul).

I am going to the market and to the grocery store.

(The word “and” in this sentence is joining two ideas, which are going to the market and to the grocery
store).

My mother asked me if I am going to wash my clothes or wash the dishes.

(It is stating that the girl has two choices, to wash her clothes or wash the dishes)

Conjunctions serve as a cue within a sentence, signaling the reader that another idea is coming.
Coordinating conjunctions link ideas by showing how they relate. For example, a word like "and"
indicates two ideas go together. A subordinating conjunction indicates that one idea depends on
another. For instance, in this sentence the word "unless" depends on the action that follows it:
 Example: We will be late unless we leave now.

Correlative conjunctions join elements within a sentence, indicating the two are of equal importance.
The words "neither" and "nor" work this way in this sentence:

Example: I like neither carrots nor celery.

WRITTEN OUPUT#1: FILL ME UP!

Complete each sentence using the subordinating conjunction from the parenthesis. Please write the
word in capital letters. Please use a clean sheet of paper for your answers.
1. I visit the Grand Canyon _________ I go to Arizona. (Once, whenever, wherever)
2. This is the place _________ we stayed last time we visited. (Where, when how)
3. _________ you win first place; you will receive a prize. (Wherever, if, unless)
4. You will not pass the test _________ you study. (When, if, unless)
5. I could not get a seat, _________ I came early. (As, though, when)
6. We are leaving Wednesday _________ or not it rains. (If, whether though)
7. Pay attention to your work _________ you will not make mistakes. (So that, unless, or)
8. The musicians delivered a rousing performance _________ they had rehearsed often. (Though,
as, once)
9. She is honest _________ everyone trusts her. (If, so, when)
10. Write this down _________ you forget. (Or, when, lest)
11. I plan to take my vacation _________ in June _________ in July. (whether / or, either / or, as / if)
12. _________ I am feeling happy _________ sad, I try to keep a cheerful outlook.
13. (either / or, whether / or, when / I am) _________ had I taken my shoes off _________ I found
out we had to leave again. (No sooner / than, rather / than, whether / or)
14. _________ only is dark chocolate delicious, _________ it can be healthy. (whether / or, not / but,
just as / so)
15. _________ I have salad for dinner, _____________________I can have ice cream for dessert. (if
/then, when / than, whether / or)

LECTURE NUMBER #3

Conjunctions or connectors have its functions in the sentences. This is especially if the
conjunctions or connectors will be used in a format text like argumentative text.
Transitions also serve the same purpose as conjunctions, but on a larger scale. They signal to
the reader the relationship between ideas in a paragraph or even between paragraphs. By connecting
larger ideas, they let readers know what to do with the information presented to them. Indicating these
connections help reinforce the argument within a paper. Phrases like "for example" let the reader know
the information that follows is meant to support an idea. Thus, the use of transitions cues readers into the
writer's thinking process.

Conjunctions improve the paper by giving the writing coherence, or flow. A conjunctive adverb such
as "however" or "overall" joins two complete sentences, using either a semicolon or a period. These words
and phrases serve different purposes: showing agreement, opposition, causality, support or emphasis,
consequence, and conclusion. They work like a bridge from one of the writer's points to another.

Example: "however" lets the reader know the statement that follows is in opposition to the preceding;
"overall" signals a conclusion. These signals guide readers to either reflect on what came before or
anticipate what is coming next in the paragraph.

Take note of this; conjunctions and conjunctive adverbs unite elements of an argument together.
When the argument is unified and cohesive, readers are more likely to believe what the writer is saying.
Readers need a guide; without this guide, they might get lost in the argument. Readers struggling to follow
a writer's thought progression become frustrated and may even stop reading the paper. When a writer
takes the time to make the argument more readable, this engenders faith and goodwill in the readers. As
Aristotle pointed out, creating that goodwill, what he called ethos, makes people more open to persuasion.
The words you are thinking of do function like coordinating conjunctions, but they are classified as
conjunctive adverbs. Some examples of conjunctive adverbs are however, moreover, namely,
nevertheless, meanwhile, subsequently, and furthermore.
Example:
1. The rules formulated were good, however, some statements were of not applicable to the English
Club.
2. Students who will be delivering their speech namely, Peter, Paul, Edgar.

WRITTEN OUTPUT#2 – SEEK ME!

Look for the words in the maze. Cross-out the words with red crayon. Look for these words in the maze:
transition, nor, but, no sooner, lest, unless then, or, whether.

WRITTEN OUTPUT#3 – FIX ME!

Unscramble the words to form the correct word. Fill in the boxes. Please use a clean sheet of paper for
your answers.
1. ONNTICOJUCN

2. TORSNECNOC

3. NIOTISNART

4. ERWHTEH

5. ELIHWNMAE

6. RENIENT

7. SUNSEL

8. VOREOMER

9. SYULBTSNEEQU

10. NYLAEM

QUIZ # 2
A. Identify the conjunction used in the given sentence. Choose the letter of the correct answer.
Please use a clean sheet of paper for your answers.

1. Neither one of them even helped the old woman cross the street
a. Neither b. But c. Both d. Nor

2. Both James and Andrew were playing their gadgets while the teacher is talking.
a. And b. Both c. Nor d. Or

3. My best and I went to the beach to play with the sand.

a. Both b. Also c. And d. Either
 4. Monica does not know about Michael and Bobby, nor about Jessica and Susan.
a. Nor b. Yet c. But d. For

5. So far, he hasn’t told her the truth.

a. Yet b. So, c. Hasn’t d. The

B. Fill in the proper conjunction to complete the sentence. Please use a clean sheet of paper for your
answers.
6. She was tired when she arrived in class, ________ she had studied all night.
7. I tried out for the basketball team, _______ I didn’t make it.
8. It’s snowing outside, _______ it’s the middle of summer!
9. They love football, ______ they gave up their tickets to someone less fortunate.
10. ______ far, he hasn’t told her the truth.
11. Jason went to get a drink of water ________ his exam started.
12. I’m wearing my new swimsuit _________ I go to the beach _______ to the swimming pool.
13. Her sneeze was ______ loud _______ a helicopter.
14. Even though Lisa is lactose intolerant, __________ she wanted an ice cream bar.
15. Ted was a great student, ____________ he was a wonderful student body president.

WEEK 3 - FORMULATING A STATEMENT OF OPINION OR ASSERTION

LECTURE NOTES
(Copy this on your notebook)

LECTURE # 4
Everyday conversation and writing are characterized not only by factual statements, but also
expressions of one’s personal views, judgment, beliefs, and convictions. In other words, we often make
statements or assertions of fact, opinion, belief and even prejudice. This is because we often process and
interpret factual evidence based on our own values, feelings, tastes, and experiences.

Fowler H. Ramsay (1986), as outlined in the Colorado State University website, described
ASSERTION as a term used to refer to statements of fact, opinion, belief, and prejudice. These types or
categories of assertion are quite different from one another. A FACT is a verifiable statement. It can be
proven objectively by verified observations or the results of research, among others. Because statements
of fact can be double-checked for accuracy, there is general agreement about the truth they posit. On the
other hand, an OPINION is a personal judgment based on facts; hence, it is debatable and potentially
changeable.

The third category is called BELIEF, which is a conviction based on cultural or personal faith,
morality, or values. A statement of belief may look similar with an opinion, but they are not based on
evidence; that is why they cannot be contested or argued in a rational or logical manner. Lastly, there is
the vague category called COMMONPLACE ASSERTION. This is a stereotype, an oversimplification, or
a prejudice, which is a half-baked opinion based on insufficient or unexamined evidence, but it presented
as if it were a fact. It is often accepted from others (families, friends, media etc.), making it too common to
be questioned about its truthfulness.

These categories of assertion are so prevalent in social media today, and the distinction between
one another is slowly becoming unclear because of how netizens present everything as facts. Therefore,
every social media needs to be a critical and informed reader to be able to verify the truthfulness of the
information he/she comes across.

In one of the previous modules, you learned about the language of research, advocacies, and
campaigns. Opinions and assertions are especially important in advocacies and campaigns; hence, it
would be advantageous for a writer, or even a speaker, to clearly express their views on important matters.

WRITTEN OUTPUT#1 - I’M A CRITICAL READER

Go over each of the following statements and write FACT if it is factual, and OPINION of it is a personal
interpretation or conclusion derived from factual evidence, and ASSERTION if it is a commonplace
assertion, or a claim that is not supported by evidence. Write your answers on a separate sheet of paper.
___________1. There is not a single district in Baguio City with zero record of Covid-19 cases.
___________2. The surge in the number of Covid-19 cases in Baguio can be attributed to expanded
testing efforts and heightened contact tracing.
___________3. To ease the worsening poverty caused by the pandemic, livelihood projects for poor
families are a better solution than cash subsidies.
___________4. The liquor ban is one of the best policies of the local government in keeping the
coronavirus disease under control.
___________5. The only tourists allowed to come to Baguio are those from region 1 and nearby
provinces with minimal Covid-19 cases.
___________6. Tourism always solves the financial woes of every major city in the entire country.
___________7. Many poor families have greatly benefitted from the two tranches of the government’s
Social Amelioration Program.
___________8. Small businesses had to close as an effect of the Covid-19 pandemic, and therefore it
is better to have a stable job than to start one’s own business venture.
___________9. Longer quarantine period translates to lower crime rates in every city.
___________10. In times of global crisis, men are better leaders than women.

LECTURE #5

Whenever you browse your newsfeed, will you be able to tell how much of the posts you read is factual,
and how much is opinionated? If you can’t tell between fact and opinion or assertion, then you are likely
to fall victim to misinformation or fake news. As a 21st century learner, you should be able to tell the
difference between the two. Similarly, you are also expected to know how to properly construct
statements of opinion or assertion. Below is a detailed discussion of opinion and commonplace
assertion.
An opinion is a type of assertion which expresses a judgment, viewpoint, or statement about matters
commonly considered to be subjective. It is a personal view; however, it is still based on facts. In other
words, it is an honest attempt to draw a conclusion from factual evidence, and not a mere statement of
one’s belief, preference, or prejudice (e.g., The president is the worst leader the country has ever had.)

An opinion statement is composed mainly of a debatable topic and a focus (i.e., the specific feeling or
belief the writer or speaker has about the topic.) It can sometimes be distinguished from other
constructions because it often uses qualifying words such as almost, usually, maybe, probably, often,
some, most and in most cases. It does not have to be explicitly stated using the words “I think...” or “In
my opinion...” Take, for instance, the sentence: Most public schools are ready for distance education.
The word “most” makes the sentence an opinion that is easier to support. Opinions result from
ambiguities; the more ambiguous a statement, the more difficult it is to verify, and so they are open to
disputes.

There are three categories of opinion statements, namely:

1. STATEMENT OF TRUTH
It is an opinion that something is or is not the case.

FOR EXAMPLE: WITH THE MINIMAL NUMBER OF COVID-19 CASES IN THE CITY, BAGUIO
CITY CLEARLY HAS MORE EFFECTIVE CONTACT TRACING METHODS THAN MOST CITIES
IN THE COUNTRY.

2. STATEMENT OF VALUE
It is an opinion statement which claims that something does or does not have worth.

FOR EXAMPLE: HARD LOCKDOWNS OF BARANGAYS HAS NOT BEEN EFFECTIVE IN

CONTROLLING THE SPREAD OF THE CORONAVIRUS.

3. STATEMENT OF POLICY
It claims that something should or should not be done.

FOR EXAMPLE: AMIDST THE ONGOING PANDEMIC, WHAT TEACHERS AND STUDENTS
NEED IS NOT ACADEMIC FREEZE BUT MATERIAL, MORAL AND INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT
FROM THE LEADERS IN THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
 Take note that the given examples are claims or statements that are based on existing facts or on the
writer’s interpretation of these facts; hence, they can be debated or opposed. In other words, they are
personal views. They may be true for the speaker or writer, but they can’t be true for everybody else. It is
therefore important to make the readers aware of the evidence and how it led you to arrive at your opinion.

Another statement or expression that is somewhat like an opinion is called COMMONPLACE

ASSERTION. Readers or listeners sometimes confuse the two with each other; however, a commonplace
assertion does not appear to be as subjective as an opinion. Instead, it claims universality and is presented
as an absolute truth. Further, a commonplace assertion is a statement used to make a declaration or to
express strong belief on a particular topic, often without evidence. They are so common (because they are
passed on by friends, family members, and the media) that they are believed to be true even without proof,
and some statements of commonplace assertion have become stereotypes.

FOR EXAMPLE:
1. MEN ARE STRONGER THAN WOMEN.
2. AN APPLE A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR

Written as declarative sentences, these statements appear to be facts. But let us analyze each of them.
The first example is a typical stereotype, a statement that many people have accepted to be true. However,
there is no evidence to support this, and there are many layers of the statement that are ambiguous. For
instance, it is not clear if it is referring only to physical strength. Therefore, the statement is something that
many women have been trying to disprove.

As for the second example, many people have also accepted this as a fact. However, it is not clear
how an apple can keep someone so healthy that she wouldn’t need to visit a physician anymore. Moreover,
it is still possible that someone who eats apple everyday could get sick and will need to visit a doctor.

It is clear from these examples of commonplace assertion that readers need to be critical about the
information they read, so as not to assume that these unfounded statements are absolute truths. Similarly,
writers need restraint in presenting their prejudices and opinions as factual statements. In other words,
personal views should be presented as opinions, and not as stereotypes or even facts.

By this time, you should be able to distinguish between facts and opinions or assertions.
Practice your skill by reading this commentary and identifying the opinions embedded in the
article.
ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND EDUCATION
The news about the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) eyeing to ban social
media for school assignments, especially “likes-based” requirements, reminded me of the task I gave to my Grade 8
students two years ago.
I instructed the learners to post their essay on Facebook and told them that I would score it based on the number
of likes and good comments it will get within a week. Although some of the students complained that they do not
have many friends to like their post, they still complied, and the learning goal was met -- to get them to read one
another’s essay and engage them in meaningful discussions online.
That was one of the activities that proved how useful social media is in enhancing teaching and learning
processes and banning its use in schools will greatly affect meaningful interactions inside and outside the classroom.
I have heard students say that group chats are a necessity to keep them updated of upcoming classroom
activities and requirements, and their peers’ discussions are helpful in accomplishing such tasks. Moreover, one
class I once handled wrote in their essay how their group chat in science is an extension of their classroom, especially
when their subject teacher uses it to send lecture notes, reminders, and assignments so that students who were
absent in class could catch up.
The usefulness of social media can be further confirmed by many researchers in the local and international
setting. One example is the 2016 study of Vishranti Raut and Prafulla Patil that highlighted the strength of social
media applications in offering “tools that learners can mix and match to best suit their individual learning styles and
increase their academic success.”
The same conclusion is echoed in the case study of Bernard John Kolan and Patience Emefa Dzandza in 2018.
They noted that although only about 20 percent of their respondents use social media mainly for academic purpose,
the remaining 80 percent still use the tools to perform academic-related tasks. They further underscored that “one
cannot dispute the fact that social media networks contribute immensely to students’ academic life when used
judiciously.”
Meanwhile, a 2017 study in Pangasinan investigated how teachers perceive the role of social media in education.
The findings revealed that social media is “extremely useful” for student interaction in collaborative learning and
student-teacher interactions. However, the researchers also acknowledged that while it promotes communication
and builds connection, social media “distracted the focus of students in fulfilling their school requirements.”
 Distraction. This is indeed the downside in social media usage, and it is for this reason that DICT is proposing to
ban it in schools. Undoubtedly, students do get distracted from doing school requirements when they already logged
in to, say, Facebook. Worse, this could result in addiction.
But even though social media could be a two-edge sword, schools can still greatly capitalize on its use. A recent
study in Saudi Arabia notes that since social media have an impact on student achievement, “it is necessary to
approach adolescents’ use of social networks with ultimate responsibility.” Kolan and Dzandza also advised that
schools organize seminars to educate students about the possible implications of social media usage on their
academic performance. Moreover, contrary to the proposal of DICT, these researchers suggest that teachers channel
assignments or discussions on social media platforms to inculcate the proper use of these sites for academic work.
To the parents, Raut and Patil recommend moderating their children’s access to social media. They claim that if
parents will lessen the time their kids spend on these sites, and if they pay attention to their academic progress, the
negative aspects of social media can be kept from influencing the child’s studies.
Indeed, there are gains and losses in the unabated use of social media; however, will the proposed ban yield
better results in the students’ academic performance? I would say that people put their trust in us first, that we --
educators, parents, and learners -- could still regulate the use of social media to maximize learning beyond the walls
of the classroom.
— Vanessa Abubo, Baguio Midland Courier (June 16, 2019)
The article above is evidently an opinion piece because of the use of the pronoun “I” and the statements
of opinion that abound in the text. And as mentioned earlier, opinions are personal judgments based on
available facts, which is why there are also proof or evidence in this commentary.
But how many opinionated statements or assertions were you able find in the article? Here are some
of them; and if you identified the following, then you are a critical reader:
✓ Banning its (social media) use in schools will greatly affect meaningful interactions inside and
outside the classroom.
✓ Group chats are a necessity to keep them (students) updated of upcoming classroom activities
and requirements...
✓ Social media could be a two-edge sword.
✓ There are gains and losses in the unabated use of social media.

Before proceeding to the next activities, please take time to rate this opinion article. Shade the emoji
that matches your reaction towards the text.

WRITTEN OUTPUT #2 - FACTOR OPINION?

Read the facts given, and then identify which of the succeeding statements are debatable opinions
drawn from the said facts. Put a check mark on the corresponding box.

According to the report of the Inter Agency Committee Against Trafficking (IACAT), in 2017 the
Department of Social Welfare and Development served a total of 175 victims of child pornography and
in 2018 there were 230 victims served, an alarming 31 percent increase from the previous year.

The Department of Justice’s Office of Cybercrime also recorded a 264.63 percent increase in the
number of reported online sexual l exploitation of children (OSEC) during the quarantine.
- Rillorta, Patrick, Baguio Midland Courier (September 13, 2020)

 The number of children falling victim to abuse is constantly increasing over the years.
 The quarantine is detrimental for the children’s physical, social and mental wellbeing.
 There are negligent parents and guardians in many households in the country.
 The cyberspace is not a safe place for children.
 Several agencies are working together in monitoring and addressing issues involving children.

WRITTEN OUTPUT #3: MY TWO CENTS’ WORTH

Write a statement of opinion or assertion for each of the given topics.
1. Baguio as a Model City
Opinion: ____________________________________________________________________________
2. Distance Learning
Opinion: ___________________________________________________________________________
3. Online Selling:
Opinion: ___________________________________________________________________________
4. Corruption:
Assertion___________________________________________________________________________
5. Mental Health
Assertion: __________________________________________________________________________

PERFORMANCE TASK # 2
Write an opinion article about any current social or political issue. Be sure to phrase your opinions and
assertions correctly and write in no less than 200 words. Be guided by the following rubric.

CRITERIA VERY GOOD GOOD NEEDS IMPROVEMENT

Opinion is introduced, clearly
communicated, and the focus
Purpose
is strongly maintained for the
purpose and audience.
Comprehensive evidence
(facts and details) from the
Elaboration/ source material is integrated
Evidence and with proper attribution.
Vocabulary and style are
appropriate and effective.
There is effective and clear
introduction and conclusion.
Organization Also, the logical progression
of ideas is evident throughout
the essay.
The article shows correct use
Conventions of language, punctuation,
grammar and spelling.
Score
Opinion is clear, and the focus is
mostly maintained for the
purpose and audience.
Comprehensive evidence (facts
and details) from the source
material is integrated but are not
properly attributed. Vocabulary
and style are generally
appropriate and effective.
There is effective and clear
introduction and conclusion, but
the logical progression of ideas
is not sustained in some parts of
the essay.
There are minimal errors in word
usage, grammar, punctuation
and spelling but these do not
affect the clarity of the text.
Opinion is confusing and too
ambiguous, and the focus
drifts from the purpose and
audience.
There is little evidence
integrated. Moreover,
vocabulary and style are not
appropriate and effective.
The introduction and
conclusion are not effective,
and there is not logical
progression of ideas in most
parts of the essay.
The article is riddled with
errors in word usage,
grammar, punctuation which
makes the text difficult to
comprehend.

QUIZ#3
Choose the letter of the best answer and write it on a separate sheet of paper.
1. It is a statement that is commonly believed to be true even without proof or evidence.
A. Fact B. Opinion C. Commonplace Assertion D. Bias or Prejudice

2. It is a statement that is verifiable or can be proven true or false based on evidence or proof.
A. Fact B. Opinion C. Commonplace Assertion D. Bias or Prejudice

3. Which of the following best defines an opinion?

A. It is a declarative statement that is generally accepted as true.
B. It is a personal view, judgment, or appraisal about a particular matter.
C. It can be proven true or false based on whatever evidence is available.
D. It is a statement that is true not only to the speaker but to everyone else.

4. What is the similarity between an opinion and a commonplace assertion?

A. They can be opposed.
B. They are subjective and personal.
C. They are based on evidence or proof.
D. They are generally accepted to be true.

5. Which is not a category of an opinion statement?

A. Statement of Truth C. Statement of Policy
B. Statement of Value D. Statement of Preference

6. Under what category of opinion statement does the following statement belong to? Online selling has
become a very viable source of income nowadays.
 A. Statement of Truth C. Statement of Policy
B. Statement of Value D. Statement of Preference

7. Which of the following is a well-constructed opinion statement?

A. Baguio is the safest city to live in during this pandemic.
B. I think the local government of Baguio deserves recognition for its efforts.
C. LGU leaders in the city always make sound and calculated decisions.
D. Mayor Benjamin Magalong exemplary handled the pandemic in his jurisdiction.

8. Which of these statements is neither an opinion nor a commonplace assertion?

A. Women are careful drivers.
B. All industrial nations are first world countries.
C. There are more men than women who became president of the country.
D. The number of males in the Senate and Congress suggests that males are better lawmakers.

9. A commonplace assertion is commonly referred to as stereotypes. Which of these statements is an

example of stereotype?
A. All boys are more open-minded than girls.
B. Most religions allow only the males to be the leaders.
C. Schools across the country advocate gender equality.
D. Women deserve the same opportunities that are given to men.

10. What makes the following statement an example of commonplace assertion? Milk is good for your
body.
A. It asserts that milk is the best source of calcium which makes bones and teeth stronger.
B. It makes people believe that milk contains all the vitamins and minerals that the body needs.
C. It disregards the fact that some people are lactose intolerant, and milk may cause stomach upset.
D. All the above.

For numbers 11-15, read the given excerpt of an opinion article and then identify statements of
fact, opinion, and assertion from the passage.

Online delivery, not online class

Conducting online classes today is ideal, there is no doubt about it, but ours is considered a third
world country. Having an online class is possible and but it is never fair to all students especially those
studying in public schools. Online classes are financially demanding and most likely, the majority of the
learners’ families cannot cope with these demands.
Most of the students in public schools do not have gadgets or fast-internet service connections
necessary for online classes. Teachers cannot just hold these classes to a small number of the class only
because most students have no means to join. Those who are not privileged of sufficient income will be
denied of the learnings attained in activities and discussion. Public schools can conduct online classes,
but it would be discriminating because it is selective. The learning experiences would not be the same for
everybody and the poor will certainly be on the losing end.
- Sherwin L. Fernando, SunStar Baguio (September 27, 2020)

FACT
11.

ASSERTION
12.

OPINIONS
13

14

15