The English CBA 1 for Junior Cycle is a 3-minute oral presentation on a given topic. You can provide a classic presentation, interview, debate, or speech for this exam. Here are some examples to help you find inspiration for your English CBA 1.
1. Interview with a Historical Figure
Do you have a hero or heroine from history? Maybe Rosa Parks, Gandhi, or MLK? You can introduce your historical figure by asking questions like who you are and what you do.
You can then detail the figure’s accomplishments or beliefs by asking questions that would bring out your desired answers. For example, if you chose Padraig Pearse as your historical figure, you could ask about the importance of the Irish language in establishing an independent sovereign culture.
Or you could ask Gandhi about the importance of peaceful protesting instead of armed revolution.
Make sure that whatever historical figure you choose, you will have to discuss it in detail, so choose someone easy to research.
2. Debate About Climate Change
Climate change is a real problem that will only get worse in the coming years. Yet, many countries and leaders are still failing to act to reduce the harm caused to the environment. You can discuss why climate change is an issue and what needs to be done to mitigate the ramifications of a warming world.
You could also make your debate more specific and discuss whether coal should be made illegal for consumers to buy or plastic products should be outlawed.
Many social issues are hotly debated in public life. Everything from climate change to LGBTQ rights to global responses to disease outbreaks is hotly discussed by the public. If you have opinions about any social issues, this will make a great topic for your English CBA 1.
You can open your speech by addressing the social issue you want to discuss. For example, speaking about immigration, you could introduce the topic by addressing why people emigrate from their homes.
You can then discuss some people's issues with immigration or common issues that refugees and immigrants face. You can then try to offer a solution to the problems that you discussed in your speech.
4. Presentation About Music
A presentation about music is an excellent CBA 1 for English. If you are passionate about music, you could easily create a 3-minute presentation. If you play an instrument, you could open with a brief introduction.
Then you can go into detail about where and when the instrument was invented, how it is used, and the significance of its use. You also have the opportunity to make your presentation personal by speaking about when you started learning the instrument and why you like playing it as well as why you started to play.
If you don’t play an instrument, you can do the presentation on genres of music you are passionate about. For example, you could do a presentation on the history of electronic music.
5. Deliver a speech on the impact of social media on young people's mental health.
In this example, students are asked to explore the effects of social media on young people's mental health. They could consider issues such as cyberbullying, the pressure to present a perfect image on social media, and the potential for addiction. Students could also discuss how social media could be used positively, such as for promoting mental health awareness.
6. Write a composition about a significant life-changing event that had a profound effect on you.
In this example, students are asked to write about an event that had a significant impact on their lives. This could be a personal experience, such as a family member's illness, a change of school or country, or any event that was transformational in their lives. Students should focus on how this event shaped them as individuals and what they learned from it.
7. Deliver a speech on the importance of gender equality in today's world.
In this example, students are asked to deliver a speech on the importance of gender equality. Students could consider the gender pay gap, stereotypes, and the challenges women and non-binary individuals face in the workplace and society. They could also explore the benefits of gender equality and the role of individuals in promoting it.
8. Write a composition about a character from a novel or play that inspired you and explain why.
In this example, students are asked to write about a character from a novel or play that inspired them. They should explain why the character was inspiring and what qualities or traits they have that the student admires. Students could also explore how the character's actions or words impacted them and how they relate to their own lives.
9. Deliver a speech on the impact of climate change on our planet and what can be done to address it.
In this example, students are asked to deliver a speech on the impact of climate change and what can be done to address it. They should consider the effects of global warming on the planet, such as rising sea levels, more extreme weather events, and the impact on biodiversity. Students could also discuss what can be done at an individual, local, and global level to address the issue, such as reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy sources.
10. Write a composition about a current event that you are passionate about.
In this example, students are asked to write about a current event that they are passionate about. The event could be local, national, or international in scope and should be something that the student has a strong interest in. Students should explore the event from different angles, including its causes, effects, and possible solutions. They could also consider the different perspectives on the issue and how it affects different groups of people.
Conclusion
Leaving Certificate English CBA 1 is an essential assessment for any student taking the Leaving Certificate. It tests their ability to communicate effectively and showcase their writing skills. By following the tips outlined in this post and using the examples provided, students can prepare for and excel in this assessment. We hope that this comprehensive guide has been helpful in understanding what is expected in Leaving Certificate English CBA 1.