should cellular phones be allowed in schools
Cellular phones, or simply known as cell phones, have become an essential part of our daily lives. These devices have revolutionized the way we communicate, access information, and even conduct businesses. However, the use of cell phones in schools has been a highly debated topic. While some argue that it should be allowed, others believe that it should be banned. In this article, we will explore both sides of the argument and come to a conclusion on whether cellular phones should be allowed in schools.
On one hand, advocates of allowing cell phones in schools argue that it has become a necessity for students. With the advancement of technology, cell phones have become more than just a means of communication. They are now equipped with features that can be used for educational purposes. For instance, students can use their cell phones to access e-books, educational apps, and online resources that can enhance their learning. This can be especially beneficial for students who do not have access to these resources at home.
Furthermore, cell phones can also serve as a safety measure for students. In case of an emergency, students can use their cell phones to call for help. This can be particularly useful in situations where landline phones are not available or accessible. Additionally, parents can easily reach their children through their cell phones, which can provide them with a sense of security knowing that they can always be in touch with their child.
Moreover, proponents of allowing cell phones in schools argue that it can improve communication between students and teachers. With the use of cell phones, teachers can easily send reminders, updates, and assignments to their students. This can reduce the chances of miscommunication and ensure that students are always informed about their academic responsibilities. In turn, this can lead to better academic performance as students are more organized and prepared.
In addition to academic benefits, allowing cell phones in schools can also have a positive impact on the school’s budget. With the use of cell phones, schools can save money on purchasing computers and other expensive technological devices. This can also reduce the burden on students who may not be able to afford such devices. By allowing cell phones in schools, students can have access to the same resources and opportunities regardless of their financial background.
On the other hand, opponents of allowing cell phones in schools argue that it can be a major distraction for students. With the constant notifications and alerts, students can easily lose focus on their studies. This can also lead to disruptive behavior in the classroom, as students may be tempted to use their cell phones for non-academic purposes during class time. This can not only affect their own learning but also disrupt the learning of their classmates.
Moreover, cell phones can also be a breeding ground for cyberbullying. With the use of social media and messaging apps, students can easily bully and harass their peers through their cell phones. This can have serious consequences on the mental health and well-being of students. It can also create a negative school culture and affect the overall learning environment. By banning cell phones in schools, this risk of cyberbullying can be significantly reduced.
In addition, opponents argue that the use of cell phones in schools can lead to cheating. With the easy access to the internet, students can easily search for answers or share information during exams or quizzes. This can compromise the integrity of the assessment and undermine the efforts of hardworking students. By banning cell phones in schools, the chances of cheating can be minimized, and academic integrity can be maintained.
Furthermore, opponents also argue that allowing cell phones in schools can have a negative impact on students’ social skills. With the constant use of cell phones, students may become overly dependent on technology and lack the necessary social skills to interact with their peers in person. This can hinder their personal development and affect their ability to communicate effectively in the future.
Despite the valid arguments presented by both sides, the decision of whether to allow cell phones in schools ultimately comes down to the school’s policies and regulations. It is essential for schools to have a clear and comprehensive policy in place if they do decide to allow cell phones. This policy should outline the acceptable use of cell phones, consequences for misuse, and measures to prevent distractions and cyberbullying.
In conclusion, the use of cell phones in schools is a highly debated topic. While it has its advantages, it also poses potential risks and challenges. However, with proper guidelines and regulations in place, the benefits of allowing cell phones in schools can outweigh the negatives. It is important for schools to carefully consider the impact of their decision and come up with a policy that best suits their students’ needs and promotes a safe and productive learning environment.
birthday party for teens
Birthday parties are a special occasion for people of all ages, but when it comes to planning a birthday party for teens, it can be a daunting task. Teenagers are at a stage in their lives where they are developing their own interests and tastes, making it challenging to plan a party that will please everyone. However, with the right approach and some creativity, you can throw a birthday party for teens that they will remember for years to come. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know to plan a successful birthday party for teens.
1. Start with a Theme
The first step in planning a birthday party for teens is to choose a theme. A theme will tie all the elements of the party together and make it more exciting for the guests. When choosing a theme, consider the interests and hobbies of the birthday teen. It could be a movie or TV show they love, a sports team, or a specific color scheme. Once you have a theme, you can use it to guide your decorations, food, and activities.
2. Set a Date and Time
The next step is to set a date and time for the party. You want to make sure that the date and time work for the birthday teen and their friends. It’s also essential to consider the availability of the venue and any other important guests, such as family members. Keep in mind that teenagers have busy schedules, so it’s best to plan the party in advance to ensure that everyone can attend.
3. Choose a Venue
Choosing the right venue is crucial for a successful teen birthday party. You can choose to have the party at your home, a local park, or a rented venue. If you decide to have the party at your home, make sure you have enough space to accommodate all the guests and the activities you have planned. If you opt for a rented venue, make sure it fits your budget and has the necessary amenities, such as restrooms and a kitchen.
4. Create Invitations
Invitations are essential for any birthday party, and for a teenage party, they can be a great way to get everyone excited and involved. You can choose to send out traditional paper invitations or opt for electronic invitations, such as e-vites. Make sure to include all the necessary information, such as the date, time, venue, and theme, on the invitations.
5. Plan the Menu
Food is an essential part of any party, and when it comes to teens, it’s essential to have a variety of options to cater to different tastes. You can opt for a buffet-style meal with a mix of healthy and indulgent options. Alternatively, you can have a pizza party or a DIY taco bar, which will allow the guests to customize their meals. Don’t forget to have some fun and creative desserts, such as a candy bar or a make-your-own ice cream sundae station.
6. Choose Fun Activities
Teenagers have a lot of energy, so it’s essential to plan some fun activities to keep them entertained. You can have a dance party with a playlist of the birthday teen’s favorite songs, or you can organize a scavenger hunt with clues related to the party’s theme. You can also set up a photo booth with fun props and a backdrop, where the guests can take pictures and create memories.
7. Consider Entertainment
In addition to activities, you can also consider hiring entertainment for the party. You can hire a DJ or a live band to play music, or you can hire a magician or a photo booth rental company to keep the guests entertained. Make sure to choose entertainment that fits the party’s theme and will appeal to the guests.
8. Don’t Forget the Party Favors
Party favors are a lovely way to thank the guests for attending and to give them something to remember the party by. You can choose to give out goody bags filled with small treats and trinkets related to the party’s theme. Alternatively, you can give out personalized items, such as water bottles or phone cases, with the birthday teen’s name or the party’s date.
9. Plan for Safety
When planning a party for teens, safety should be a top priority. Make sure to have adult supervision throughout the party, especially if there will be activities such as swimming or sports. If you plan to serve alcohol, make sure it’s only for adults, and have a designated driver available to take the guests home safely.
10. Get the Birthday Teen Involved
Lastly, don’t forget to involve the birthday teen in the planning process. Ask for their input on the theme, activities, and guest list. This will make them feel more involved and excited about the party. You can also delegate some tasks to them, such as creating a playlist or helping with decorations. This will not only make the planning process easier, but it will also give them a sense of responsibility and ownership over the party.
In conclusion, planning a birthday party for teens can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can throw a party that will be a hit with the birthday teen and their friends. Remember to start with a theme, plan in advance, and involve the birthday teen in the process. With the right approach, you can create a memorable and enjoyable party that the birthday teen will cherish for years to come.
best board games for 12 year olds
Board games have been a staple in family game nights for generations. They provide a fun and interactive way for people to bond and create lasting memories. With the rise of technology and video games, it can be easy to overlook the timeless appeal of board games. However, for 12-year-olds, board games can be a great way to disconnect from screens and engage in some good old-fashioned fun. In this article, we will be exploring the best board games for 12-year-olds, taking into account their interests, skills, and developmental needs.
1. Monopoly
Monopoly is a classic board game that has been around for over 85 years. It is a game of strategy, luck, and negotiation. The objective of the game is to become the wealthiest player by buying, renting, and trading properties. Monopoly teaches 12-year-olds important skills like money management, decision making, and negotiation. It also encourages critical thinking as players strategize to bankrupt their opponents. With various versions available, such as Monopoly Junior and Monopoly Electronic Banking, there is a Monopoly game suitable for every 12-year-old.
2. Scrabble
Scrabble is a word game that has been popular since its creation in 1938. The game is played by forming words with letter tiles on a grid board. Each letter has a different point value, and players must strategically place their tiles to earn the most points. Scrabble is not only a fun and challenging game, but it also improves vocabulary, spelling, and critical thinking skills. With the Junior version of the game, 12-year-olds can also learn about reading and forming words.
3. Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is a strategy game that has won numerous awards since its release in 2004. The game is based on building railroads across North America, and players must collect and play matching train cards to claim railway routes. The objective of the game is to connect the most cities and earn the most points. Ticket to Ride is an excellent game for 12-year-olds as it teaches them planning, decision making, and map reading skills. The game also has various expansions, such as Ticket to Ride Europe and Ticket to Ride New York, to keep the gameplay exciting and fresh.
4. Settlers of Catan
Settlers of Catan is another award-winning game that has gained a cult following since its release in 1995. The game is a mix of luck and strategy, as players must collect resources and trade with each other to build settlements, cities, and roads. The first player to reach 10 victory points wins the game. Settlers of Catan is an excellent game for 12-year-olds as it teaches them about resource management, negotiation, and risk-taking. With its many expansions, such as Seafarers and Cities & Knights, Settlers of Catan offers endless possibilities for gameplay.
5. Codenames
Codenames is a popular party game that is suitable for players of all ages. It is a word game where players must give one-word clues to their teammates to help them identify their secret agents on a grid of word cards. The objective is to find all your team’s agents before the other team does. Codenames is an excellent game for 12-year-olds as it encourages teamwork, communication, and deductive reasoning. The game also has a variety of themed versions, such as Codenames Disney and Codenames Pictures, to appeal to different interests.
6. Pandemic
Pandemic is a cooperative game where players must work together to stop the spread of deadly diseases across the world. Each player takes on a different role with unique abilities, and they must strategize to find cures and prevent outbreaks. Pandemic is an excellent game for 12-year-olds as it teaches them cooperation, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. With its various expansions, such as Pandemic: In the Lab and Pandemic: Legacy, the game offers endless challenges and opportunities for players to work together to save the world.
7. Clue
Clue is a murder mystery game that has been a favorite among families since its release in 1949. The game is set in a mansion, and players must use deductive reasoning to figure out who killed Mr. Boddy, with what weapon, and in which room. Clue is an excellent game for 12-year-olds as it encourages critical thinking, deductive reasoning, and problem-solving skills. The game also has various versions, such as Clue Junior and Clue: Game of Thrones, to appeal to different interests and keep the game fresh.
8. Stratego
Stratego is a strategy game that has been around since the early 20th century. The game is set on a battlefield, and players must use their army of pieces to capture the enemy’s flag while protecting their own. Stratego is an excellent game for 12-year-olds as it teaches them planning, risk-taking, and strategic thinking. It also improves their memory skills as they must remember the positions and ranks of their pieces. With its many versions, such as Stratego Waterloo and Stratego Legends, the game offers endless possibilities for gameplay.
9. Sequence
Sequence is a combination card and board game that has been around since 1982. The game is played by placing cards on the board to create rows of five chips, either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. The objective of the game is to create two sequences before your opponents. Sequence is an excellent game for 12-year-olds as it teaches them strategy, critical thinking, and planning skills. The game is also available in a Junior version, which features animals instead of numbers, making it more appealing to younger players.
10. Forbidden Island
Forbidden Island is a cooperative game where players must work together to retrieve four treasures from a sinking island before it fully submerges. Each player has a unique role with special abilities, and they must strategize to collect the treasures and escape the island before it’s too late. Forbidden Island is an excellent game for 12-year-olds as it teaches them teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. It also has a beautiful and immersive board, making the gameplay all the more exciting.
Conclusion
Board games are a fantastic way to bring families and friends together and have some quality time away from screens. For 12-year-olds, board games can also provide a fun and educational experience. From classic games like Monopoly and Scrabble to newer games like Pandemic and Codenames, there is a wide variety of board games that are suitable for 12-year-olds. These games not only provide entertainment but also teach important skills like critical thinking, communication, and teamwork. So the next time you are planning a family game night, consider adding some of these best board games for 12-year-olds to your collection.