4.1 Discussions and Debates

Express opinions and argue.

45 min

6 oppgaver

DiscussionsOpinionsArguments

Din fremgang i kapitlet

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Discussions and Debates in English

Being able to express your opinions clearly and listen to others is an important skill. In English, there are many useful phrases for agreeing, disagreeing, and making your point.

What's the difference?
- Discussion: A conversation where people share ideas and opinions
- Debate: A more formal argument between opposing sides

Expressing Opinions

Giving your opinion: - In my opinion, ... - I think that ... - I believe that ... - I feel that ... - From my point of view, ... - As I see it, ... - If you ask me, ... - Personally, I think ... Strong opinions: - I'm absolutely convinced that ... - There's no doubt in my mind that ... - I strongly believe that ... Softer opinions: - It seems to me that ... - I tend to think that ... - I'm inclined to believe that ...

Agreeing and Disagreeing

Agreeing: - I agree with you. - That's a good point. - Exactly! / Absolutely! - I think so too. - You're right. - I couldn't agree more. Partly agreeing: - I see your point, but... - That's true, however... - You have a point, although... - I agree to some extent, but... Disagreeing politely: - I'm not sure I agree. - I see it differently. - I understand your point, but... - I'm afraid I disagree. - I don't quite agree with that. Never say: ❌ "You're wrong!" ❌ "That's stupid!" ✓ Use polite phrases instead

Supporting Your Arguments

Giving reasons: - The reason I think this is because... - This is because... - One reason for this is... Giving examples: - For example, ... - For instance, ... - A good example of this is... - To illustrate this point, ... Using evidence: - Studies show that... - According to experts, ... - Research suggests that... - Statistics indicate that... Making comparisons: - Similarly, ... - In the same way, ... - On the other hand, ... - In contrast, ...

DO:
- Listen carefully to others
- Wait for your turn to speak
- Respect different opinions
- Support your points with examples
- Stay calm and polite
- Ask questions to understand better

DON'T:
- Interrupt others
- Get angry or raise your voice
- Make personal attacks
- Change the topic randomly
- Speak too much without letting others talk

Useful phrases:
- "Could I add something here?"
- "What do you think, [name]?"
- "That's an interesting point. Can you explain more?"
- "Let me make sure I understand..."

Debate Structure

A formal debate has: Two sides: - Proposition (for the topic) - Opposition (against the topic) Structure: 1. Introduction of the topic 2. First speaker (proposition) 3. First speaker (opposition) 4. Second speakers continue 5. Rebuttal (responding to the other side) 6. Closing statements Key skills: - Present your strongest arguments - Anticipate what the other side will say - Respond to their arguments - Summarize your main points

✏️Example: Mini Debate

Topic: "Social media does more harm than good for teenagers."

Proposition (FOR):
"In my opinion, social media does more harm than good for teenagers. Firstly, studies show that heavy social media use is linked to anxiety and depression. For example, many teens compare themselves to others online and feel inadequate. Secondly, social media can be a platform for cyberbullying. Therefore, I believe the negative effects outweigh the benefits."

Opposition (AGAINST):
"I understand your concerns, but I disagree. Social media helps teenagers stay connected with friends and family, especially those who live far away. Additionally, it can be a valuable tool for learning - many students use YouTube for homework help. While there are risks, I believe that with proper guidance, social media's benefits are greater than its harms."

Response:
"You make a fair point about connectivity. However, I would argue that the mental health risks are too serious to ignore. We need to find better ways to stay connected that don't come with these dangers."

📝Oppgave 1

Which phrase is the most polite way to disagree?

📝Oppgave 2

Match each phrase to its purpose:

1. "I think that..."
2. "For example,..."
3. "I agree to some extent, but..."
4. "Studies show that..."

"I think that..."

"For example,..."

"I agree to some extent, but..."

"Studies show that..."

📝Oppgave 3

Give your opinion on this statement: "Homework should be banned." Write 3-4 sentences using opinion phrases and supporting your view with a reason or example.

📝Oppgave 4

Choose a topic and write arguments for BOTH sides:

Topics:
a) School should start later in the morning
b) Everyone should learn to code
c) Zoos should be closed

Write one argument for each side, with supporting evidence or examples.