1. Some people think that the modern communication technology has a negative impact on social relationships.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this?

2. Advances in technology in the last 100 years have transformed the way we live as well as postponing the day we die. There is no better time to be alive than now.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

3. We are becoming increasingly dependent on computer-based technology.

How do you think it will change in the future?

Is it good for us to rely so much on computers?

4.Life was better when technology was simpler.

To what extent do you agree and disagree?

5. In today’s world of advanced technology, we still greatly value our artists, such as musicians, painters, and writers. What can the arts tell us about life that technology can not?

6. Early technological developments helped ordinary people and changed their lives more than recent developments.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

7. When a country develops its technology, the traditional skills and ways of life die out. It is pointless to try and keep them alive.

Do you agree and disagree with this statement?

8. The increase in the production of consumer goods results in damage to the natural environment.

What are the causes of this?

What can be done to solve this problem?

9. Nowadays, environmental problems are too big to be managed by individual people or individual countries. In other words, it is an international problem.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

10. Most people do not care enough about environmental issues.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

11. Problems with environmental pollution have become so serious that many countries are trying to solve these problems.

Suggest possible solutions and give your own opinion.

12. Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental problems.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

13. Scientists believe that the world is in danger due to environmental changes. Some people say that personal lifestyle changes should be made to reduce the damage to environment, while others think that the government should do something to help.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

14. The problem with society today is that it is essentially unbalanced, with some people being paid huge salaries to work very long hours, whilst others do not have a job and have too much time on their hands. There is no middle ground.

Do you agree or disagree?

15. When a traveler enters a new culture, they should follow the social norms of that culture as closely as they can.

To what extent do you agree?

16. People who have original ideas are of much greater value to society than those who are simply able to copy the ideas of others well.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

17. Some people believe that society is becoming less friendly these days.

Why do you think this might be? Suggest some ways in which this can be reversed.

18. People have historically attempted to achieve a perfect society. However, it is difficult to decide what a perfect society would be like. What would be the most important element of an ideal society?

What can normal people do to make society more perfect?

19. Throughout history, people have dreamed of living in a perfect society, but they have not agreed on what an ideal society would be like.

Why do you think it is the most important element of a perfect society in the modern world?

How can people work towards achieving an ideal society?

20. Is freedom of speech necessary in a free society?

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

21. Professional sportsmen and sportswomen and professional entertainers can often command enormous salaries today and this situation reflects society’s dependence on being entertained.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this?

22. Some people believe that television is a powerful educational tool. Other people believe that television is nothing more than mindless entertainment and should be discouraged.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Discuss both views and give your own opinion. Provide examples and supporting evidences to back up your opinion on this subject.

23. It is believed that books have been losing popularity throughout the passing years. Other sources of information such as the Internet are rapidly replacing the old-fashioned books. Some say that this situation could have serious consequences.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

24. Many people believe that music is just a form of entertainment, whilst others believe that music has a much larger impact on society today.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

25. Some people opine that entertainment or leisure activities should be subsidized by the government.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

26. Some people say that all popular TV entertainment programmes should aim to educate viewers about important social issues.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

27. Some believe that money for education should mainly be spent on better computers, while others believe it would be better spent on teachers.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

28. Some people believe that a college or university education should be available to all students. Others believe that higher education should be available only to good students.

Discuss these views. Which view do you agree with? Explain why.

29. Education is not a luxury, but a basic human right and as such should be free for everyone irrespective of personal wealth.

Do you agree or disagree?

30. Some people say that the education system is the only critical factor in the development of a country.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

31. Writing, reading, maths are the three recognized traditional subjects. Computer skills should be the fourth largest branch.

Do you agree or disagree?

32. Should students pay for their own university education, or should the government provide it for free?

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

33. All education (primary, secondary and further education) should be free to all people and paid and managed by the government.

Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

34. Some universities offer online courses as an alternative to classes delivered on campus.

Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

35. Despite huge improvements in healthcare, the overall standard of physical health in many developed countries is now falling.

What could be the reason for this trend, and what can be done to reverse it?

36. Some people say that the best way to improve public health is by increasing the number of sports facilities. Others, however, say that this would have little effect on public health and that other measures are required.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

37. Many people believe that every individual is responsible for his/ her own healthy lifestyle. Others believe that governments should take care of it.

Discuss both the views and give your own opinion.

38. In some countries, the average weight of people is increasing and their levels of health and fitness are decreasing.

What do you think are the causes of these problems and what measures could be taken to solve this?

39. Some people believe that it is the responsibility of individuals to take care of their own health and diet. Others, however, believe that governments should make sure that their citizens have a healthy diet.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

40. Many think that in today’s world it is very difficult for people to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Others, however, feel that it is easy for people to be healthy and fit if they want to be.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

41. Many people believe that zoos have no purpose in today’s world and should be closed. What problems do zoos bring?

What are the alternatives to zoos if they are closed?

42. Some people think that resources should be spent on protecting wild animals, while others think they would be better used for the human population.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

43. Many people support the use of animals for testing medicines for humans. Others believe it isn’t appropriate to use animals for such experiments.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

44. Wild animals have no place in the 21st century, so protecting them is a waste of resources.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

45. A growing number of people feel that animals should not be exploited by people and that they should have the same rights as humans, while others argue that humans must employ animals to satisfy their various needs, including uses for food and research.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

46. In the modern world, it is no longer necessary to use animals for food, clothing or medicine.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

47. Examine the arguments in favour and against animal experiments, and come to a conclusion on this issue.

48. Scientists use living animals to carry out research. Some people think it is interesting, while some other people think it is cruel. What is your opinion?

49. Unemployment remains the biggest challenge to school-leavers in most countries.

How far do you agree with this assessment? What other challenges face young people today?

50. In many countries, more and more young people are leaving school but unable to find jobs. What problems do you think youth unemployment causes for individuals and society?

What measures should be taken to reduce the level of unemployment among youngsters?

51. Unemployment is one of the most serious problems facing developed nations today.

What are the advantages and/or disadvantages of reducing the working week to thirty five hours?

52. Unemployment is getting increasingly serious in many countries. Some people think students only need to get primary education, while others think secondary education is necessary.

What’s your opinion?

53. Nowadays, many people choose to be self-employed, rather than to work for a company or organization.

Why might this be the case?

What could be the disadvantages of being self-employed?

54. In countries where there is high unemployment, most pupils should be offered only primary education. There is no point in offering secondary education to those who will have no hope of finding a job.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

55. Some people believe that children that commit crimes should be punished. Others think parents should be punished instead.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

56. Some people advocate the death penalty for those who commit violent crimes. Others say that capital punishment is unacceptable in contemporary society.

Describe the advantages and disadvantages of the death penalty and give your opinion.

57. Without capital punishment, our lives are less secure, and crimes of violence increase. Capital punishment is essential to control violence in society.

How far do you agree or disagree?

58. Should criminals be sent to prison or should they do something else as a punishment?

Explain your opinion and give your reasons.

59. The most common solution for criminal behaviour is prison, but many believe education is a better method.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

60. Some people think that offenders should be put in prison. Others, however, believe that providing offenders with education and training is more effective than putting them in prison.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

61. Many offenders commit more crimes after serving the first punishment.

Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken to tackle this problem?

62. The crime rate is becoming directly proportional to the instances and severity of punishments.

What are the underlying reasons behind such a trend?

63. Some parents think that childcare centres provide the best services for children of pre-school age. Other working parents think that family members such as grandparents will be better carers for their kids.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

64. Caring for children is probably the most important job in any society. Because of this, all mothers and fathers should be required to take a course that prepares them to be good parents.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

65. In many countries today, the eating habits and lifestyle of children are different from those of previous generations. Some people say this has had a negative effect on their health.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

66. Nowadays, many families have both parents working. Some working parents believe other family members, like grandparents, can take care of their children, while others think childcare centres provide the best care.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

67. Caring for children is very important. Therefore, all mothers and fathers should take a childcare training course.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

68. Childcare training courses should be mandatory for all parents.

Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

69. Some people think that having old people in society is a problem as they are completely dependent on their children, while others believe that having senior citizens around adds value to the family.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

70. Some people believe that the government should take care of old people, whereas others oppose this view.

Discuss both the views and give your opinion.

71. Should young people follow older people’s advice or is it good for them to challenge older people’s opinions and thoughts.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

72 People are living longer after they retire.

What are the problems?

What can be done to solve these problems?

73. Many elderly people are no longer looked after by their families but are put in care homes or nursing homes.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?

74. The number of elderly people in the world is increasing.

What do you think are the positive and negative effects of this trend?

75. With the improvements in today’s health care, society has to care for more and more elderly people.

Do you feel that society will be able to cope with the increase in numbers of elderly people today and how can it be managed?

76. Some people say that schools should teach good behaviour to children and introduce them to right and wrong. Parents should not be the only ones responsible.

Do you agree or disagree?

77. Parents are the best teachers.

Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

78. Many parents encourage young people to leave home when they become older, while others think they should stay at home with the family.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

79. Caring for children is probably the most important job in any society. Because of this, all mothers and fathers should be required to take a course that prepares them to be good parents.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

80. Some people think that teachers should be responsible for teaching students to judge what is right and wrong so that they can behave well. Others say that teachers should only teach students academic subjects.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

81. These days, everyone seems to have more and more possessions (e.g. computers, cars, mobile phones, etc.) Our strong desire to own these things is making us less aware of important personal qualities such as kindness and concern for others.

Do you agree or disagree?

82. Do you think art and music still have a place in today’s modern world of technology? Should children spend more time learning art and music at school?

Discuss this issue, and give your opinion.

83. Should arts-related entertainment venues such as museums and art galleries be free of charge for the general public, or should a charge apply for admittance?

Discuss this issue, and give your opinion.

84. Some people say that art subjects such as music, drama and creative writing are an essential part of education, and every school should include them in its syllabus.

Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

85. Some people believe that the government should spend more money putting in more works of art like paintings and statues in cities to make them better places to live in.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

86. Some people think that governments should give financial support to creative artists such as painters and musicians. Others believe that creative artists should be funded by alternative sources.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

87. For a long time, art has been considered an essential part of all cultures in the world. However, nowadays, people’s values have changed, and we tend to consider science, technology and business more important than arts.

What do you think are the causes of this?

What can be done to draw people’s attention to art?

88. In today’s world of advanced science and technology, we still greatly value our artists, such as musicians, painters and writers. What can art tell us about life that science and technology can not?

What are your opinions on this?

89. Studying art in school improves students' performance in other subjects, because it is easier for multi-skilled students to learn new things. That's why art should be obligatory in schools.

Do you agree or disagree?

90. Food travels thousands of miles from farmers to consumers. Some people think that it would be better for our environment and economy if people consumed locally produced foods.

To what extent do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

91. Some people think that people every nation should concentrate on agriculture to develop. Others think that other developments are more important.

What is your opinion?

92. Today, much of the food people eat gets transported from farms that are thousands of miles away. Some people believe that it would be much better for the environment and the economy if people only consumed food produced by local farmers.

Would the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

93. Supermarkets should only sell food produced from within their own country rather than imports from overseas.

What are your opinions on this?

94. Some people support the development of agriculture, like factory farming and scientific creation of fruits and vegetables, while others oppose it.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.?

95. To meet the growing needs of food for the increasing population, countries should make use of genetically engineered foods. However, some people believe that GM foods are not only unhealthy but affect nature too.

Do you agree or disagree about this?

96. The health and fitness levels of children and teenagers are declining these days. Therefore, physical education and sport should be compulsory for all students in all schools.

Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

97. Children engaged in sport are often overloaded with physical activity or get serious traumas.

What are the main reasons for this? What solutions can you suggest?

98. One good way to promote world peace is through international sporting events.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

99. Major companies use sports events to promote their products. Some people think it has a negative impact on sports.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

100. Extreme sports such as sky diving and skiing are very dangerous and should be banned.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

101. Some people believe that governments should ban dangerous sports even though others claim they should have the freedom to choose a sport to their liking.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

102. Organized tours to remote community and other countries are increasingly popular.

Is it a positive or negative development for local people and the local environment?

103. In the past, most people used to travel to their place of work. With the increased use of computers, the internet and smartphones, more and more people are starting to work from home.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of this development?

104. Today more people are travelling than ever before.

Why is this the case?

What are the benefits of traveling for travellers?

105. It is now possible for scientists and tourists to travel to remote natural environments, such as the South Pole.

Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

106. In the past, most people used to travel to their place of work. With increased use of computers, the internet and smart phones, more and more people are starting to work from home.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of this development?

107. Some believe that tourism does more to create tension between countries rather than helping individuals better understand other cultures.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

108. Some people like to travel outside their country. Others would rather travel to tourist spots in their own country first, before travelling abroad.

Which do you prefer to do and why? Include specific details and examples to support your choice.

109. Some people believe that family is more important than friends.

To what extent do you agree and disagree?

110. In general, people do not have such a close relationship with their neighbours as they did in the past.

Why is this so, and what can be done to improve contact between neighbours?

111. It is generally acknowledged that families are now not as close as they used to be.

Give some reasons why this change has happened and suggest how families could be brought closer together.

112. There is no need to maintain a close relationship with distant relatives.

Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

113. Some people say that friends are more important than family in today’s world. Ohers say family is always more important.

Write in support of one of these views.

114. Establishing good relationships in the workplace is not important, as the primary goal of every person is to focus on work.

To what extent do you agree with this statement?

115. Nowadays, the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology. In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships people make?

Has this become a positive or negative development?

116. Some say that the internet is making the world smaller by bringing people together.

To what extent do you agree that the internet is making it easier for people to communicate with one another.

117. Besides a lot of advantages, some people believe that the Internet creates many problems.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

118. There have been many inventions in human history, such as the wheel. Some people think the most important thing is the internet.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

119. Nowadays, for many people, the Internet is replacing regular books.

What do you think will happen in the future and what is your opinion about this trend?

120. The widespread use of the Internet has brought many problems.

What do you think are the main problems associated with the use of the Internet? What solutions can you suggest?

121. It is generally believed that the Internet is an excellent means of communication, but some people suggest that it may not be the best place to find information.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

122. The internet has transformed the way information is shared and consumed, but it has also created problems that did not exist before.

What are the most serious problems associated with the internet and what solutions can you suggest?

123. Some say that the internet is making the world smaller by bringing people together.

To what extent do you agree that the internet is making it easier for people to communicate with one another.

124. Besides a lot of advantages, some people believe that the Internet creates many problems.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

125. There have been many inventions in human history, such as the wheel. Some people think the most important thing is the internet.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

126. Nowadays, for many people, the Internet is replacing regular books.

What do you think will happen in the future and what is your opinion about this trend?

127. The widespread use of the Internet has brought many problems.

What do you think are the main problems associated with the use of the Internet? What solutions can you suggest?

128. It is generally believed that the Internet is an excellent means of communication, but some people suggest that it may not be the best place to find information.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

129. The internet has transformed the way information is shared and consumed, but it has also created problems that did not exist before.

What are the most serious problems associated with the internet and what solutions can you suggest?

130. Some people say that computers have made life easier and more convenient. Other people say that computers have made life more complex and stressful.

What is your opinion? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

131. Using a computer every day can have more negative than positive effects on your children.

Do you agree or disagree?

132. For centuries, important parts of education have remained, such as reading, writing and Math. With the advent of computers, some people think that computer skills be made as a fourth skill to the list.

To what extent do you agree?

133. School children are becoming far too dependent on computers. This is having an alarming effect on reading and writing skills. Teachers need to avoid using computers in the classroom at all costs and go back to teaching basic study skills.

Do you agree or disagree?

134. Is it good for children to start using computers from an early age and spend long hours on them?

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.

135. As computers are being used more and more in education, there will be no role for teachers in the classroom.

To what extent do you agree?

136. Some people think that young people can learn useful skills by playing electronic and computer games. Others argue that people who play electronic and computer games are wasting their time.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

137. Computer games are very popular for all ages and nationalities. Parents think this has little educational value and it will be harmful to children.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?