Mobile Phones at School

black-colored Samsung Galaxy Android smartphone
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on October 8, 2020 and last updated on July 16, 2023

The topic of mobile phones at school holds relevance for English learners as it provides an opportunity to enhance their language skills while exploring a contemporary and contentious issue. Engaging in discussions about mobile phones at school allows learners to expand their vocabulary related to technology, education and social issues. Additionally, it fosters critical thinking, argumentation, and the ability to express opinions effectively in English.

By delving into this topic, English learners can develop their language proficiency while gaining insight into the broader societal implications and considerations surrounding the use of mobile phones in educational settings.

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

About Mobile Phones at School

The presence of mobile phones in schools has become a topic of debate and concern in recent years. Mobile phones at school refer to the possession and usage of these devices by students during school hours. While some argue that mobile phones offer educational benefits and emergency communication, others express concerns about distractions, cyberbullying and academic misconduct. This contentious issue raises questions about the role of technology in education, student discipline and the balance between digital connectivity and focused learning environments.

Understanding the implications of mobile phones at school is crucial for educators, policymakers, and students themselves.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • detrimental (adjective)
  • education (noun)
  • particularly (adverb)
  • teenager (noun)
  • beneficial (adjective)
  • effect (noun)

Conversation Questions

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  • Do you think mobile phones should be allowed in schools? Why or why not?
  • How do you think mobile phones can be used effectively in the classroom?
  • How do you think mobile phone use affects the learning environment in schools?
  • Do you think there should be different rules for the use of mobile phones in primary, secondary, and higher education? Why or why not?
  • Have you ever experienced a situation where you or someone else was distracted by a mobile phone in class? How did it affect your learning?
  • How do you think mobile phones can be used to stay connected with peers and teachers outside of the classroom?
  • Do you think mobile phones should be allowed during breaks and lunchtime, or should they be banned at all times? Why?
  • How do you think mobile phones can be used to support emergency situations in schools?
  • How do you think the use of mobile phones in schools differs in your country compared to other countries?
  • How do you think mobile phones can be used to support homework and assignments?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.