Interactive prompt 1
In England, you have to stay in some form of education or training until you turn 18. I wonder if this is the right age.
Some appropriate questions are: Do you think this is too old or too young? Why aren’t you sure if it is the right age? What do you think is the right age?
I love working with my colleagues but dealing with the customers I find a lot harder.
‘The five questions of a good journalist’
Who? What? Where? Why? How?
Try to use them in your questions
In some countries, Survival Skills are a mandatory part of the curriculum. I’m not sure if this is a good use of students’ time.
What might Survival Skills include? What are the advantages? What are the disadvantages?
My cousin has just started university, and has been offered a free course on how to live independently. I think he should take it, but he isn’t interested.
What might the course cover? Why should he take it? Why might he not be interested?
I’m often so jealous of the people I’m managing. They just have a lot less responsibility.
Think of a background story, advice and reasons to agree or disagree with the prompt.
In the past, it used to be the case that a university education was a sound investment for the future, I’m doubtful whether this is still the case
Possible questions include: Why do you think that?; I can see your point, but don’t you think a University education still has value?
Many people have stated that the internet has been enormously beneficial for society. I often wonder if that really is the case.
Defending/Justifying an argument ◗ What I am trying to explain is … ◗ I see your point, but … ◗ Don’t you think it might be …? ◗ I probably agree with what you’re saying, but in reality … ◗ I think you might be making a few assumptions there … ◗ I might be wrong but don’t you think it might be …?
Advertising is everywhere in our modern world, wherever you look you see adverts. Although I understand that some people want it regulated, I think people should be free to choose for themselves.
In my opinion,... In my view,... From my point-of-view,... I do not totally agree with this because... I see what you mean but I think that... I see where you are coming from, but to be honest I don’t think...
The government seems to be overly-concerned with the welfare of its citizens, insisting on a certain amount of fresh fruit and vegetables a day, and regular exercise. Personally, I think it is up to the individual what they eat and how much exercise they do.
If I were you,... You should,... You shouldn’t... You’d better... You ought to... Why don’t you...
I keep on hearing arguments that young people should be encouraged to leave home as young as possible – around age 18, so they develop their independence. Personally, I’m not so sure this is such a good idea.
1 Expressing sympathy and empathy
2 Expressing reservations
3 Expressing caution
4 Challenging arguments and opinions
5 Evaluating different standpoints
6 Justifying an argument