1. Too Many Young People Today Have Unhealthy Lifestyles
Essay Planning

2. For the motion Modern life does little to encourage health Obesity
Television, computers in bedrooms etc.
Parents’ fear of children playing outside
Too much money – junk food – alcohol – cigarettes etc.
Focus on study means teens don’t have enough free time
Peer pressure to go out and party
Not just physical health but mental health – drugs, cyberbullying etc.

3. Thesis It is a problem caused by our modern lifestyle
Fast pace of life and fast pace of technological advances mean that it is difficult to keep track of the effects these changes have
If we examine the issues and address them, we may come up with some solutions
Can’t go back to our parents’ era, so must face challenges and adapt to cope

4. Facts, figures and quotes
Last ten years, weight problems have doubled
One in five fifteen year olds is obese
Some under-sixteens admit to drinking ten units of alcohol a week
One quarter of fifteen year olds are regular smokers
One in three has tried cannabis
Health of teenagers is deteriorating at the same time that health of other groups is improving

5. Proposed solutions? Increased parental involvement
Wider range of sports available in schools
After school sports should focus on participation rather than just winning
Encourage regular health checks with doctors coming to schools and explaining situation to teens
Encourage teens to take responsibility for their own health
Schools should make cookery lessons compulsory
Older students could mentor younger ones
Use technology in a positive way: apps to track fitness, weight loss, diet etc.

6. Conclusion It is a problem, and a growing one
However, we should focus on what can be done rather than blaming teens for existing situation