BECE English Language 2024 Theory — Question 2

Model answer

Mr. Chairman, panel of judges, the opposing team, teachers and fellow students, good morning. I stand here as the chief speaker for the proposition to support the motion that parents are to be blamed for the misconduct of their children. The home is the first school of every child. A child learns speech, behaviour and values from the parents before any teacher or friend. When parents fail to teach good morals, the child grows up without direction. A child who sees his parents quarrel, cheat or use abusive language will most likely copy them. Secondly, many parents neglect their duty of care and supervision. They are so busy chasing money that they do not know the friends their children keep, the films they watch or the places they go. Children left alone easily fall into bad company, cultism, drug abuse and examination malpractice. Thirdly, some parents spoil their children by giving in to every demand and refusing to discipline them. The Bible says, 'Train up a child in the way he should go.' A child who is never corrected will not know the difference between right and wrong. Finally, parents who do not provide the basic needs of their children push them into street hawking, stealing and other vices. In conclusion, although friends, the media and society also influence a child, parents carry the greatest responsibility. I therefore urge this house to support the motion. Thank you.