1st, cell phones are new technology. The purchase and ownership of a new technology would need to show value in solving a problem. I would list several of the problems high schoolers face now, and faced in the past. I would show how a cell phone does not solve these problems because of two issues……the first being that after the invention of cell phones, these problems still exist. the second is that before cell phones, people existed and coped with their challenges.

2nd, new technology brings problems, and I would focus on the problems associated with cell phones in terms of relationships to one another, parernts, authority and institutions, and the ability to use the technology in an unfair way. like cheating.

3rd, new technology is not possessed by everyone, and therefore creates a class system within the schools that unbalances the playing field.

4th, the distraction element

5th, the responsibility issue.

6th, the financial issues of future bad credit etc.

7th, is it a need? no.