The computer will soon replace the book: Argumentative Essay

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Last Updated on February 20, 2025 by sanjjeett

Hello students, we are providing English Essays for ICSE students. These essays are useful for ICSE Class 9 and 10 studying students. The resources for English Essays are not proper and organised. So, to help students we have created English Essays Series for ICSE students. In this article, you will find an argumentative essay on “The computer will soon replace the book”

SubjectEnglish
Type of EssayArgumentative Essay
Essay onThe computer will soon replace the book
BoardICSE
ClassClass 9 and 10
Important LinkEnglish Essays for ICSE Class 9 and 10

The computer will soon replace the book. Express your views either for or against this statement.

  • Introduction: The computer can never replace a book.
  • A book is the most cost effective way of spreading literacy. It is portable and handy.
  • Reading a book does not cause any physical discomfort or eye strain. There is a high degree of respectability in the written word.
  • Books develop our power of expression and personality.
  • The book is the source of a wealth of knowledge on a particular subject. It is important for serious learning.
  • Conclusion: The computer can never replace a book, either now or in the near future for the convenience and conviction offered by a book, can never be possible through a computer.

A good book in the words of John Milton “is the precious lifeblood of a master spirit, embalmed and treasured up to a purpose to a life beyond life”. The thoughts and ideas contained in a book are immortal like Tulsidas’s Ram Charitra Manas, Ved Vyas’s Mahabharata, the Bible, and other religious books. Similarly literary classics of Shakespeare, Munshi Premchand, and others are treasured legacy passed on from one generation to another. On the other hand a computer is but a machine, that at best can visually display the contents of a specific book for a limited period of time. To think that a computer would one day replace a book, is indeed unthinkable and far fetched.

A book is the most cost effective way of spreading education and literacy for it is available at a fraction of the cost of a computer. Moreover, being extremely portable and handy, it is not dependent on any external factor like availability of power supply, software and space, which are an essential prerequisite for a computer. A book basically requires two basic ingredients – time and inclination. It can be read at any time of the day or night, and anywhere, while travelling or dozing off to sleep.

Moreover, reading a book does not cause any physical discomfort like back pain or eye strain. The same however cannot be said on reading from a computer screen, which causes serious back pain and eye strain. Another factor in favour of the book, is the general high degree of respectability and faith in the written word. Thus, while one may see or hear something on the computer terminal, he would like to confirm

the same from a newspaper or a book. Besides spreading education to the masses, a book plays an important role in developing our power of expression. It helps in the generation of new ideas and thoughts which mould one’s personality.

Reading a book is a serious matter requiring total concentration, as it offers no diversion or distraction. A computer because of its very nature offers entertainment, games, news, and other features, which hamper serious reading and consequently the acquisition of knowledge. Indeed the convenience and conviction offered by a book can never be possible through a computer. Moreover, being a machine, it is liable to breakdown and error, factors that are non-existent while reading a book.

Books are indeed irreplaceable now or in the near future, for they are immortal. In the words of Francis Bacon “Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed and some few to be chewed and digested.” This can never be said for a computer.

Looking for more essays? Check out our complete ICSE English Essays Hub for all topics.

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Guidelines for writing an argumentative essay

  • Jot down all the points that come to your mind under the heads ‘for’ and ‘against’.
  • Decide whether you are going to write ‘for’ or ‘against’ the statement. In case you are to discuss or give advantages and disadvantages, then you have to dwell on both aspects of the subject.
  • Begin with a statement of your assertion on the issue, whether it is for or against the proposition. State its importance and relevance.
  • In the body of the composition justify your assertion, by giving practical, and historical evidence, to substantiate your point.
  • Begin each point/justification in a separate paragraph, substantiating it logically.
  • Refute your opponents arguments/points already listed by you point by point, with practical and historical evidence to support your assertion.
  • Don’t use first person. Instead of saying, “I don’t think global warming is worth worrying about”, you may say, “A two degree rise in temperature over the next hundred years makes global warming a trivial problem.”
  • Reserve your strong points or argument towards the end.
  • Conclude with a well-thought out personal view on the subject.

Pitfalls of writing an argumentative composition

Having chosen your line of argument, do not waiver, by acceding to the point in favour of the opposition. You may only do so if you are required to discuss the subject, where you have to dwell on both the aspects.

Writing this type of composition is very rewarding. You should attempt it only if you have complete knowledge of the subject. Illogical arguments or arguments not properly supported by factual data or evidence would be counter-productive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on English Essays

Q1: What types of essays are included for ICSE Class 9 and 10 students?

A1: Essays for ICSE Class 9 and 10 students typically include descriptive essays, narrative essays, argumentative essays, and reflective essays. These essays cover a range of topics from personal experiences and observations to debates on social issues and creative writing.

Q2: What is the structure of a well-written essay for ICSE exams?

A2: A well-written essay typically follows this structure:
Introduction: Introduce the topic and present the thesis statement or main idea.
Body: Develop the main points or arguments with supporting details and examples. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of the topic.
Conclusion: Summarize the key points and restate the thesis in light of the arguments made. Offer a closing thought or reflection.

Q3: How can I improve my essay writing skills for ICSE exams?

A3: To improve your essay writing skills, practice regularly and seek feedback on your work. Focus on organizing your thoughts clearly, using appropriate vocabulary, and adhering to grammatical rules. Reading various essays and writing on different topics can also help enhance your skills.

Q4: Are there specific formats to follow for different types of essays?

A4: Yes, different types of essays may have specific formats:
Descriptive Essays: Focus on vividly describing a person, place, or event. Use sensory details to paint a clear picture.
Narrative Essays: Tell a story or recount an experience with a clear sequence of events and personal reflections.
Argumentative Essays: Present a clear argument on a topic, supported by evidence and counterarguments.
Reflective Essays: Reflect on personal experiences or events, exploring their significance and impact.

Q5: How important is it to adhere to word limits for ICSE essays?

A5: Adhering to word limits is important as it demonstrates your ability to convey ideas concisely and effectively. It also ensures that you follow exam guidelines and avoid overloading your essay with unnecessary information.

Q6: Can you provide tips for writing a compelling argumentative essay?

A6: To write a compelling argumentative essay:
Choose a Clear Position: Clearly state your stance on the issue.
Provide Strong Evidence: Support your arguments with facts, statistics, and examples.
Address Counterarguments: Acknowledge and refute opposing views to strengthen your position.
Conclude Effectively: Summarize your arguments and restate your position in a convincing manner.

Q7: Are there any common mistakes to avoid in ICSE essays?

A7: Common mistakes to avoid include:
Off-Topic Writing: Ensure your essay directly addresses the given topic or prompt.
Poor Organization: Structure your essay logically with clear paragraphs and transitions.
Overuse of Complex Vocabulary: Use vocabulary appropriately and avoid using words you are not comfortable with.

Q8: Where can I find additional resources for writing English essays?

A8: Additional resources for writing English essays can be found in:
Textbooks: Refer to your ICSE English textbooks for guidance and examples.
Online Guides: Explore educational websites and writing guides for tips and sample essays. XamContent offer a large number of English essays for icse students.

The computer will soon replace the book: Argumentative Essay

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