1. Debate Question: Should the death penalty be abolished?

Model Answer (Agreeing with Abolition): The death penalty should indeed be abolished. One of the primary
arguments against capital punishment is the risk of executing innocent people. Despite advances in forensic science,
wrongful convictions still occur, and an irreversible punishment like the death penalty leaves no room for rectifying
such mistakes. Additionally, the death penalty does not serve as an effective deterrent against crime. Studies have
shown that countries without the death penalty do not have higher crime rates than those with it. Moreover, capital
punishment is often applied disproportionately against marginalized communities, which raises serious ethical
concerns.

Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

 Capital punishment: The legally authorized killing of someone as punishment for a crime.
 Wrongful convictions: When someone is found guilty of a crime they did not commit.
 Irreversible punishment: A penalty that cannot be undone, like the death penalty.
 Deterrent against crime: A factor or measure that discourages people from committing crimes.
 Marginalized communities: Groups of people who are excluded or disadvantaged in society.

Model Answer (Against Abolition): The death penalty should not be abolished, as it serves as a crucial deterrent
against the most heinous crimes. The fear of capital punishment can prevent potential criminals from committing
violent acts, thus protecting society at large. Furthermore, the death penalty is a just response to crimes such as
murder and acts of terrorism. It provides a sense of closure to the victims' families and reaffirms the value of human
life by showing that such serious crimes will be met with the most severe consequences.

Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

 Heinous crimes: Extremely wicked or shocking crimes, such as murder or terrorism.

 Deterrent: Something that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something.
 Closure: A sense of resolution or conclusion, often sought by victims' families after a crime.
 Reaffirms: To state again or assert positively.

2. Debate Question: Is it better to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment for criminals?

Model Answer (Focusing on Rehabilitation): Focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment is a more effective
approach to reducing crime in the long term. Rehabilitation programs aim to address the root causes of criminal
behavior, such as poverty, lack of education, or mental health issues. By helping offenders develop the skills they
need to reintegrate into society, we can reduce the likelihood of recidivism. Punishment alone does not change a
person's behavior, and in some cases, it may even reinforce criminal tendencies. Therefore, a rehabilitation-focused
system benefits both the individual and society as a whole.

Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

 Rehabilitation: The process of helping someone to live a normal life again after they have committed a
crime.
 Recidivism: The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend.
 Reintegrate into society: To become part of society again after a period of imprisonment.
 Root causes: The fundamental reasons or underlying issues that contribute to a problem.

Model Answer (Focusing on Punishment): Punishment should remain the primary focus of the criminal justice
system, as it ensures that justice is served. Crime must have consequences, and those who break the law should face
appropriate penalties. While rehabilitation is important, it should not come at the expense of public safety. Some
offenders are beyond reform and pose a continuous threat to society. In such cases, punishment, including
incarceration, is necessary to protect law-abiding citizens and uphold the rule of law.

Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

 Criminal justice system: The system of law enforcement, courts, and corrections established to manage
crime.
 Incarceration: The state of being confined in prison.
 Public safety: The welfare and protection of the general public.
 Rule of law: The principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly
applied and enforced.

3. Debate Question: Should juveniles who commit serious crimes be tried as adults?

Model Answer (Yes, They Should Be Tried as Adults): Juveniles who commit serious crimes should be tried as adults
to ensure that justice is served. When a young person commits a violent crime, such as murder or assault, they
demonstrate a level of intent and malice that cannot be excused by age alone. Trying them as adults sends a strong
message that society will not tolerate such behavior, regardless of the offender's age. Additionally, treating serious
juvenile offenders as adults ensures that they receive appropriate sentences that reflect the gravity of their crimes.

Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

 Juveniles: Young people who have not yet reached the legal age of adulthood.
 Tried as adults: When a minor is prosecuted in the same manner as an adult for committing a crime.
 Intent and malice: The intention to do something harmful and the desire to cause injury or pain.
 Gravity of their crimes: The seriousness of the offenses committed.

Model Answer (No, They Should Not Be Tried as Adults): Juveniles should not be tried as adults because they are
still developing and may not fully understand the consequences of their actions. The justice system should recognize
that young people are more capable of change and rehabilitation than adults. Imposing adult sentences on juveniles
can be overly harsh and may hinder their chances of reform. Instead, the focus should be on providing education and
rehabilitation programs that help young offenders learn from their mistakes and reintegrate into society as
responsible citizens.

Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

 Consequences of their actions: The outcomes or effects of what someone does.

 Capable of change: Having the potential to alter one's behavior or outlook.
 Imposing adult sentences: Giving a punishment that is typically reserved for adults.
 Reform: To make changes in order to improve behavior or character.

Monologue Cue Card

Cue Card Topic: Describe a crime you heard about in the news.

You should say:

 What the crime was

 Where it happened
 How you heard about it
 And explain how it made you feel

Model Answer: I’d like to talk about a crime I recently heard about on the news. It was a bank robbery that took
place in the heart of the city. The incident occurred in broad daylight at a major bank, where a group of armed
individuals stormed the premises and held the staff and customers at gunpoint. The robbers managed to steal a
large sum of money before fleeing the scene. I heard about this crime through a news alert on my phone, and later, I
watched the full coverage on the evening news.

The crime happened not far from where I live, which made it even more unsettling. The audacity of the criminals to
carry out such a brazen act in a busy area shocked me. The news report mentioned that the police were investigating
the case and that they had some leads, but at the time, no arrests had been made. This incident made me feel a
mixture of fear and anger. Fear, because it highlighted how vulnerable we can be even in familiar surroundings, and
anger, because it seemed like the criminals had little regard for the lives they endangered. It also made me more
aware of the importance of security measures in public places.

Follow-Up Questions and Model Answers

1. Question: What do you think are the main causes of crime in today’s society?

Model Answer: I believe the main causes of crime today are poverty, lack of education, and social inequality.
When people struggle to meet their basic needs or feel marginalized by society, they may turn to crime as a
way to survive or express their frustration. Additionally, the breakdown of family structures and the
influence of peer pressure can lead young people astray. Drug abuse and addiction also play a significant
role, as individuals may commit crimes to support their habits. Addressing these root causes is essential for
reducing crime rates in the long term.

2. Question: How can communities work together to reduce crime?

Model Answer: Communities can reduce crime by fostering a sense of unity and looking out for one another.
Neighborhood watch programs are an effective way to keep an eye on suspicious activities and deter
potential criminals. Additionally, organizing community events can strengthen bonds between residents,
making it harder for crime to take root. Providing support for at-risk youth through mentorship and after-
school programs can also prevent them from engaging in criminal behavior. Lastly, working closely with local
law enforcement to address specific concerns can help create a safer environment for everyone.

3. Question: Do you think harsher punishments are effective in reducing crime?

Model Answer: Harsher punishments can be effective to some extent, particularly in deterring people from
committing serious crimes. However, punishment alone is not enough. It must be complemented by efforts
to rehabilitate offenders and address the underlying causes of crime. In some cases, excessively harsh
penalties can lead to overcrowded prisons and may not actually reduce recidivism. A balanced approach that
includes both deterrence and rehabilitation is more likely to be successful in the long term.

4. Question: How does the media influence public perception of crime?

Model Answer: The media plays a significant role in shaping public perception of crime, often by focusing on
the most sensational and violent incidents. This can lead to a heightened sense of fear and anxiety among
the public, even if crime rates are actually declining. The way crimes are reported can also influence opinions
on justice and punishment. For example, media coverage that highlights the backgrounds of offenders might
lead to greater empathy, while reports that focus on the impact on victims might increase calls for harsher
penalties. It’s important to consume news critically and be aware of the potential for bias.

5. Question: What role does technology play in modern crime prevention?

Model Answer: Technology is increasingly playing a crucial role in crime prevention. Surveillance cameras,
facial recognition software, and data analytics are some of the tools law enforcement agencies use to
monitor and prevent crime. These technologies can help identify suspects more quickly and provide
evidence in criminal investigations. Additionally, social media and online platforms can be used to spread
awareness and engage the public in crime prevention efforts. However, there are also concerns about
privacy and the potential misuse of these technologies, so it’s important to strike a balance between security
and individual rights.
WRITING

1. Essay Topic: Surveillance cameras are increasingly being used in public spaces as a measure to reduce crime. While some people believe
that they are an effective tool for enhancing security, others argue that they infringe on privacy rights. Discuss both the advantages and
disadvantages of this approach, and give your opinion on whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

2. Essay Topic: Some individuals continue to commit crimes even after being punished. Why do you think this happens? What steps can be
taken to reduce the likelihood of repeat offenses?

3. Essay Topic: Cybercrime is on the rise, posing serious threats to both personal security and business operations. What are the main causes
of this increase in cybercrime, and what measures can be taken to address this growing problem?

1. Surveillance Cameras in Public Places

Advantages:

 Crime Deterrence: The presence of surveillance cameras can deter potential criminals from committing illegal acts, as they know
they are being watched.
 Evidence Collection: Cameras provide valuable evidence that can help law enforcement solve crimes and secure convictions in court.
 Public Safety: Increased surveillance can enhance overall public safety, making people feel more secure in public spaces.

Disadvantages:

 Privacy Invasion: Constant monitoring can infringe on individuals' privacy, leading to discomfort and a sense of being constantly
watched.
 False Sense of Security: Over-reliance on cameras might lead people to neglect other important security measures, creating a false
sense of security.
 Cost and Maintenance: The installation and upkeep of surveillance systems can be expensive, and there is the potential for technical
issues that might render the system ineffective.

2. Reasons for Repeat Offenses and Preventive Measures

Why Some People Commit Crimes Repeatedly:

Recidivism: Some offenders fall into a cycle of crime due to lack of rehabilitation and support after their release from prison.
Socioeconomic Factors: Poverty, lack of education, and limited job opportunities can drive individuals back to criminal behavior as a means of
survival.
Psychological Issues: Mental health problems, addiction, or exposure to a criminal environment can make it difficult for some individuals to
break the cycle of crime.

Preventive Measures:

 Rehabilitation Programs: Offering educational and vocational training, as well as counseling, can help former offenders reintegrate
into society and reduce recidivism.
 Support Systems: Providing support such as housing, job placement, and mental health services can address the root causes of
repeat offending.
 Stricter Monitoring: Implementing probation or parole programs with regular check-ins can help prevent repeat offenses by keeping
former criminals accountable.

3. Causes and Solutions for the Increase in Cybercrime

Causes of Cybercrime Increase:

Advancements in Technology: As technology evolves, so do the methods used by cybercriminals, making it easier for them to exploit
vulnerabilities.
Lack of Cybersecurity Awareness: Many individuals and businesses are not fully aware of the risks associated with online activities, leading to
poor security practices.
Anonymity of the Internet: The ability to operate anonymously online makes it easier for cybercriminals to commit crimes without being
traced.
Solutions to Address Cybercrime:
Enhanced Cybersecurity Measures: Implementing stronger security protocols, such as encryption and multi-factor authentication, can help
protect sensitive information.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating people and businesses about the dangers of cybercrime and how to protect themselves can reduce
the risk of becoming a victim.
International Cooperation: Since cybercrime often crosses national borders, international collaboration is essential for tracking down and
prosecuting cybercriminals.