Too violent Too expensive You didn’t play with the last game they bought you You’re not doing well enough in school to get a new video game You spend too much time playing video games

Point out that there’s research that suggests that playing action-oriented video games actually improves people’s ability to process information quickly. [1] X Research source Point out that interacting with technology is an important part of life that’s actually necessary for employment these days. [2] X Research source

Some examples of early/major points might be: a demonstration that you understand the difference between violence in video games and in real life; promising to get a part-time job to help pay for the game; promising to adhere to a strict schedule so that you don’t spend too much time playing the game; promising to raise your grades Some examples of closing/minor points might be: promising to give the game up if you fail to meet any of the more important terms of the agreement, such as letting your grades slip; promising to do extra chores around the house for a month or two as added incentive; etc.

Speaking notes should outline your argument as concisely as possible, without too much detail. You don’t want to look like you’re reading your whole argument; you want just enough detail to spark your memory so you can explain the point in your own words. [3] X Research source Use symbols or visual clues on your outline to help jog your memory more easily and quickly than words. For example, you might put words that you want to speak slowly, with great emphasis, in bold. You might leave a blank line or a line of asterisks where you want to take a pause for emphasis.

Deliver your presentation into a mirror so you can practice making eye contact with your reflection.

If you don’t feel comfortable speaking from notes, feel free to type out a full speech and read it directly off the page.

If your parents say no at first, don’t immediately lose your temper. The argument’s not lost yet! Calmly consider any reasons they may give you for their refusal and do your best to offer solutions to their concerns.