2 Some people think that the government should pay for citizens’ health care and education. Others, however, argue that is not the responsibility of the government. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
3 The main purpose of public libraries should be to provide books. Public libraries should not spend their limited resources on computer software, videos or DVDs. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
4 The development of telecommunications technology has enabled people to perform many tasks, such as shopping, banking and business transactions, without meeting each other face to face. What are the effects of this trend on individuals and on society as a whole?
5 In many countries, the youth unemployment rate is high. Some people argue that children in these countries should only receive primary education because secondary-school graduates cannot find jobs. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
6 Some people think that in order to improve the quality of education, schools should encourage students to evaluate and criticise their teachers. Other people, however, feel that will result in a loss of respect and discipline in the classroom. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
7 A student should not be required to learn a foreign language if he or she does not have any talent for it. Do you agree or disagree?
8 Unpaid community service, such as teaching local children sports skills, working for local charities and improving neighbourhood relations, should be a compulsory part of secondary education. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
9 Some teachers think that students should study in groups while other teachers believe that students should study alone. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
10 The speeding up of life in many areas such as travel and communication has negative effects on society at all levels—individual, national and global. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
11 Some scientists believe that they can tell whether a child will grow up to be a criminal by studying his or her behaviour at the age of three. What is your opinion?
12 In many countries, the gap between urban areas and rural areas is growing. Some people think that all new teachers and doctors should work in rural areas for a few years. Other people, however, think that people should be free to choose where they work. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
13 The appearance of a building is more important than its function. Do you agree or disagree?
14 Advertising promotes the quantity rather than the quality of products. To what extent do you agree or disagree?15 The only way to improve safety on the road is to punish drivers more harshly if they break the traffic law. Do you agree or disagree?
16 Some people believe that air travel should be restricted because it causes serious pollution and will use up fuel resources in the world. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
17 We have developed into a “throw-away” society and are filling the environment with rubbish that we cannot fully dispose of. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? What measures should be taken to combat this problem?
