Tasks
In these assignments we practice our conversation skills by having various discussions.
On the basis of the discussions and the forming of opinions, we will practice our writing skills by creating three different
essays.
Task one
Part A - Read the
statements and write down one argument in favour and one argument against each statement.
What are the pros and cons of online and distance learning?
Pro _____
Con _____
Weigh in the pros and cons of engaging in remote work from home
Pro _____
Con _____
What are the pros and cons of using the media as an entertainer?
Pro _____
Con _____
What are the pros and cons of separating the average students from the exceptional students in schools?
Pro
_____
Con _____
What are the pros and cons of studying abroad?
Pro _____
Con _____
Part B - Share your answers with a classmate to start a discussion. Which answers are the same and which answers are different? Which pros and cons remain after the discussion?
Part C - Write an essay on a
chosen topic where you have different points of view.
Write your essay in at least four paragraphs and include:
Introduction of the subject
Main reason for you to object
Argument(s) from the opposing view
Why you do or do not accept that view
Conclusion
Part D - Comparison and contradiction
Linking words or phrases connect ideas within a text. They allow the readers or listeners to comprehend the information or opinion that you are presenting. They are useful during discussions, presentations and for writing essays.
In an essay, all sentences in a paragraph need to relate to the main idea in the topic sentence. The
readers should be able to see how each sentence flows from the previous one and that each sentence is connected to the topic sentence.
Click here for a list of linking words → Linking
words
Task two
You are going to write an essay with a specific statement and arguments. In the essay you do not only use arguments that support your opnion, but you also use counterargument(s). The goal is to
convincingly refute the (counter)arguments. Use the strongest argument(s) for the beginning and the end of the essay. Give each argument its own paragraph. In the closing you write your
conclusion or evaluation.
You may write an essay on one of the following statements:
- Punishment teaches children to behave;
- Attention to drugs increases their use;
- A statement of your own choice.
The essay must consist of at least 150 - 200 words with two arguments supporting your opinion and one counterargument.
Task three
Part A - Read the statements and write down one argument in favour and one argument against each statement.
Small children should be able to access the internet and have a smartphone
Pro _____
Con _____
Parents should be allowed to have access to their children's smartphones up to the age of 21
Pro _____
Con _____
Whatsapp improves your fluency
Pro _____
Con _____
Accounts of influencers who spread fake news must be deactivated
Pro _____
Con_____
Students should not have a part-time job while studying
Pro _____
Con _____
Part B - Share your answers with a classmate to start a discussion. Which answers are the same and which answers are different? Which pros and cons remain after the
discussion?
Part C - Write an essay on a
chosen topic where you have different points of view.
Write your essay in at least four paragraphs and include:
Introduction of the subject
Main reason for you to object
Argument(s) from the opposing view
Why you do or do not accept that view
Conclusion
