Viewpoints and key argument:
Ms Peter contends that we should have more confidence in the younger generation who are underestimated; they often perform spontaneous acts of decency.
- Appeals : common decency and respect; fairness
- Reasoning strategies/evidence: real-life example of the young students on the 101 tram; encourages us to challenge the stereotype of the disrespectful and self-indulgent student (purpose: to praise their kindness/talents)
- Words/quotes: “placed his banana peel in the bin”; “rubbish strewn on the footpath”
Metalanguage; the author defends; praises; extols the virtues of ; she encourages us to recognise/respect/ acts of kindness and decency; respect; solicitous and praise-worthy tone; she commends the actions of the young adults; challenges and exposes stereotypes;
Example 9, a, Teens doing their bit, p. 36
Adopting a solicitous tone, Ave Peter defends the reputation of younger commuters and commends their genuine acts of good-will and heartfelt “display of manners”. At the basis of this key argument are her personal observations that challenge the stereotype of young adults as selfish and uncaring . Aimed particularly at the “oldies” in her audience, she encourages them to reflect upon their biased and possibly flawed assumptions and have “more faith in the younger generation” who can be very thoughtful. The fact that one student “gave up his seat to the pregnant lady” and another who went out of his way to “place his banana peel in the bin” implores such readers to see the young adults as socially and environmentally engaged — one also “made sure that she (the pregnant lady) alighted the tram a few stops later”. Ms Peters thereby seeks to shame and marginalise those who are suspicious and quick to typecast and pre-judge the teenagers. The depiction of these “heart-warming” moments leaves commuters in no doubt that we must give “congratulations” to these “fine young boys” and be more trusting and tolerant of younger adults. She thereby praises those young adults who are a “credit to their parents and to their school” and she expects that people will give them due respect.