2020-2021 PERIOD 2 UPPER-INTERMEDIATE ORAL TASK

A. Brainstorming & Researching

There are some vital steps to take before having a debate in class.

Step 1: A good discussion starts with research. Research is vital and cannot be avoided
if you want to make a winning speech. Find online articles and videos which will be
helpful for you to support your arguments. Being able to anticipate the counter
arguments of the opposing people is an essential quality of a good debater.

Step 2: Now, do research on the topic below and fill in the following chart with ideas “for”
and “against” the arguments. Find at least 4 SUPPORTING IDEAS for EACH SIDE of
the arguments. Do not write full sentences, only short notes that you might use during
the debate. Upload this pre-task on Moodle by Friday, 23.59.

Topic: Euthanasia or mercy killing should be legalized.

FOR AGAINST EXEMPLIFICATION
During the debate, observe the following rules:

*Your teacher will assess you according to the Oral Interaction Criteria which is
available on MOODLE.

SOME IMPORTANT POINTS TO CONSIDER

Effective Use of notes: You can make use of your notes during the debate to refer to
research or to give specific examples when you forget them but DO NOT read them!

Voice: Avoid mumbling! Use volume, pitch and speed to emphasize important points in
your speech.

Being Polite: Show respect to your friend(s) and do not forget that in a discussion, the
opposing people will not agree with what you say. Do not dominate the discussion.

EXPRESSING OPINIONS:
Below are some phrases that you NEED TO use to help express your opinions during
the discussion:
1. Personal Point of View:

 In my experience…

 As far as I'm concerned…

 In my opinion…

 Personally, I think…

 I'd say that…

 I'd suggest that…

 I'd like to point out that…

 I believe that…

 What I mean is…

2. General Point of View:

 It is thought that...
  Some people say that...

 It is considered that…

 It is generally accepted that...

3. Agreeing With an Opinion:

 Of course.

 You're absolutely right.

 Yes, I agree.

 I think so, too.

 That's a good point.

 Exactly.

 I'd go along with that.

 That's true.

 I agree with you entirely.

 That's just what I was thinking.

 I couldn't agree more.

4. Disagreeing With an Opinion:

 I don't agree with you.

 That's not entirely true.

 I'm sorry to disagree with you, but…

 Yes, but don't you think…

 That's not the same thing at all.

 I'm afraid I have to disagree.

 I'm not so sure about that.

5. Interrupting:
  Sorry but…
 I'm sorry to interrupt, but…
 Can I cut in here?
 Can I stop you there for a moment?
 If I could just come in here please.
 Sorry, but I’d like to say something.

6. Asking for Clarification:

 What do you mean by...?

 Do you mean...?
 Could you say that again, please?
 Could you repeat please?
 Could you clarify that, please?
 Could you be more explicit?
 Could you give us an example?
 Could you be more specific, please?

7. Referring to Research:

 According to (author’s name), ….

 Research suggests that ….
 According to a recent study/research conducted by (author’s name) .…

NOW YOU ARE READY TO HAVE A DEBATE 