Task 1: Argument Analysis – Short Essay

For this task, you will need to use your knowledge of argument structures and analysis, as well as the various philosophical approaches you covered in Learning Units 1 and 2, and apply these to a real-life education scenario in the form of a short essay.
You are required to:
• Carefully read the news article by Cebelihle Mbuyisa (2022), ‘Paralysed child’s parents demand answers from the school and education department’, available here:
o Analyze the validity and soundness of the argument presented by the school and
Department of Education to the parent of Melokuhle Tshabalala (reference must be
made to the positions of both Nkosana Tshabalala and the Department of
Education/school).
o Comment on the propositions presented in the article which affected the mental health
and wellbeing of Melokuhle Tshabalala.
o Identify the most likely philosophical approach/theory taken by both the Department of
Education/school and the parent.
That said, in summary, you will be awarded marks for the following elements of your essay:
• Use of an academic style, tone, and format, and evidence of additional, relevant and credible
research in your 800- to 900-word essay.
• Analysis of both positions’ arguments.
• Comment on propositions presented in the article.
• Suitable application of both positions’ stances and statements to relevant philosophical
approaches or theories.