1. There are many different
types of music in the world today. Why do we need music? Is the traditional
music of a country more important than the international music that is heard
everywhere nowadays?
2. Should wealthy nations be
required to share their wealth among poorer nations by providing such things as
food and education? Or it is the responsibility of the governments of poorer
nations to look after their citizens themselves?
3. News editors decide what
to broadcast on television and what to print in newspapers. What factors do you
think influence these decisions? Do we become used to bad news? Would it be
better if more good news was reported?
4. The ideas of having a
single career is becoming an old fashioned one. The new fashion will be to have
several careers or ways of earning money and further education will be
something that contains throughout life. Discuss both views.
5. “Fatherhood ought to be
emphasized as much as motherhood. The idea that women are solely responsible
for deciding whether or not to have babies leads on to the idea that they are
also responsible for bringing the children up.” To what extent do you agree or
disagree with the opinion?
6. “Prevention is better
than cure.”Out of a country’s health budget, a large proportion should be
diverted from treatment to spending on health education and preventive
measures. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the statement?
7. Without capital
punishment (the death penalty) our lives are less secure and crimes of violence
increase. Capital punishment is essential to control violence in society. To
what extent do you agree or disagree with the opinion?
8. The position of women in
society has changed markedly in the last twenty years. Many of the problems
young people now experience, such as juvenile delinquency; arise from the fact
that many married women now work and not at home to care for their children. To
what extent do you agree or disagree with the opinion?
9. Popular events like
football world cup and other international sporting occasions are essential in
easing international tensions and releasing patriotic emotions in a safe way. To
what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
10. When a country develops
its technology, the traditional skills and ways of life die out. It is
pointless to try and keep them alive. To what extent do you agree or disagree
with this opinion?
11. In many countries
children are engaged in some kind of paid work. Some people regard this as
completely wrong, while others consider it as valuable work experience,
important for learning and taking responsibility. To what extent do you agree
or disagree with this opinion?
12. Improvements in health,
education and trade are essential for the development of poorer nations.
However, the governments of richer nations should take more responsibility for
helping the poorer nations in such areas. To what extent do you agree or
disagree with this opinion?
13. Compare the advantages
and disadvantages of three of the following as media communication information.
State the three that you consider to be the most effective. Comic’s, books, radio,
television, film and theatre. Give reasons for your answer and include any
relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
14. Happiness is considered
very important in life. Why it is difficult to define? What factors are important
in achieving happiness? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant
examples from your own knowledge or experience.
15. Creative artists should
always be given the freedom to express their own ideas (in words, pictures,
music or film) in whichever way they wish. There should be no government
restrictions on what they do. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this
opinion?
16. In many countries
schools have severe problems with student behavior. What do you think are the
main causes of this? What solutions can you suggest? Give reasons for your
answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
17. Universities should
accept equal number of male and female students in every subject. To what
extent do you agree or disagree with the opinion?
18. In some countries young
people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high
school and starting university studies. Discuss the advantages and
disadvantages for young people who decide to do this.
19. Some people think that a
sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others believe that
children who are taught to cooperate rather than compete become more useful
adults. Discuss both these views and give your own opinions.
20. Research indicates that
the characteristics we are born with have much more influence on our
personality and development than any experiences we may have in our life. Which
do you consider to be the major influence?
21. Today the high sales of
popular consumer goods reflect the power of advertising and not the real needs
of the society in which they are sold. To what extent do you agree or disagree
with the opinion?
22. Some people believe that
visitors to other countries should follow local customs and behavior. Others
disagree and think that the host country should welcome cultural differences. Discuss
both these views and give your own opinion.
23. Today the high sales of
popular consumer goods reflect the power of advertising and not the real needs
of the society in which they are sold. To what extent do you agree or disagree
with the opinion?
24. Some people prefer to
spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however,
think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both these views and give
your own opinion.
25. Some people think that
parents should teach children how to be good members of society. Others,
however, believe that school is the place to learn this. Discuss both these
views and give your own opinion.
26. Nowadays, the way many
people interact with each other has changed because of technology. In what ways
has the technology affected the types of relationships people make? Has this
become a positive or negative development?
27. Increasing the price of
petrol is the best way to solve growing traffic and pollution problems. To what
extent do you agree or disagree? What other measures do you think might be
effective?
28. 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 them?
29. Some experts believe
that it is better for children to begin learning foreign language at primary
school than secondary school. Do the advantages of this outweigh the
disadvantages?
30. Some people believe that
unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programs
(for example working for a charity, improving the neighborhood or teaching
sports to younger children. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
31. 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 own opinion.
32. Every year several
languages die out. Some people think that this is not important because life
will be easier if there are fewer languages in the world. To what extent do you
agree or disagree with this opinion?
33. Today, the advanced
science and technology have made great changes to people’s life, but artists
such as musicians, painters and writers are still highly valued. What can arts
can tell us about life that science and technology cannot?
34. Economic status is
believed to measure a country’s success by many people. Are there any other
measures or standards that count a country’s success? Give reasons why there is
one standard that is more important than the others? Use your own experiences
and examples.
35. Countries with long
average working hours are economically successful, but such nations can face
some negative social consequences. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give relevant examples from your own experience.
36. Discuss the role of
cheer leaders in sports and games.
37. In recent surveys it is
found that up to 20% of twelve year-olds in some schools were showing early
signs of nicotine addiction. A large contributing factor to this high level of
addiction is attributed to the uncensored TV advertising of cigarettes. For
this reason all cigarette advertising should be banned. Discuss.
38. Even though
globalization affects the world economies in a positive way, its negative side
should not be forgotten. Discuss.
39. In some countries, when
someone gets old, they often go to live in a home with other old people where
there are nurses to look after them. Sometimes the government has to pay for
this care. Who should be responsible for our old people?
40. What discovery in the
last 100 years has most benefitted the people in your country? Use specific
reasons and examples to support your answer.
41. Will modern technology
replace books or written words as the main source of information?
42. Do you agree or disagree
with the following statement? Playing a game is fun only when you win? Use
specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
43. Should a city preserve
its old, historic buildings or destroy them and replace them with new modern
buildings? Give specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
44. With the pressure on
today’s young people to succeed academically, some people believe that
non-academic subjects at schools like physical education or cookery should be
removed from school curriculum so that children can focus wholly on academic
subjects. To what extent do you agree or disagree this?
45. Most writers of fiction
do not earn enough money to live from their writing. Do you think government
should give them financial assistance to help encourage good literature?
46. In some countries
children have very strict rules of behavior, in other countries they are
allowed to do almost anything they want. To what extent should children have to
follow rules?
47. Traffic is a serious
problem. The pedestrians and bicycle riders are facing more and more danger.
Many gardens become sacrifices to highways. What are the best ways to make the
citizens satisfied?
48. Do you agree or disagree
with the statement? Universities should give the same amount of money to their
student’s sports activities as they give to their libraries. Use specific
reasons and examples to support your answer.
49. Nowadays environmental
problems are too big to be managed by individual persons or individual
countries. In other words, it is an international problem. To what extent do
you agree or disagree?
50. Most high level jobs are
done by men. Should the government encourage a certain percentage of these jobs
to be reserved for women?
51. Children learn best by
observing the behavior of adults and copying it. Do you agree or disagree?
52. Are famous people
treated unfairly by media? Should they be given more privacy, or is the price
of their fame an invasion into their private lives?
53. Intelligent machines
such as robots are widely applied to take the place of human beings. Discuss
the advantages and disadvantages.
54. Children who are brought
up in families that do not have a lot of money are better prepared to deal with
problems when they become adults than children who are brought up by wealthy
parent. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
55. In your opinion, what
factors contribute to a good movie?
56. Many parts of the world
are losing important natural resources such as forests, animals or clean water.
Choose one resource that is disappearing and explain why it needs to be saved.
Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
57. Should developing
countries concentrate on improving industrial skills or should they promote
education first?
58. Everyday traffic seems
to get worse on our roads. How can we reduce the number of cars on our roads
today? What alternatives can we offer to car drivers?
59. Animal testing may be
necessary, but we need to be merciful. Do you agree or disagree?
60. Should education be
free?
61. Is the ability to read
and write more important today is than in the past? Why or why not? Use specific
reasons and examples to support your answer.
62. Schools should ask
students to evaluate their teachers. Do you agree or disagree? Use specific
reasons and examples to support your answer.
63. Safety standards are
important when building people’s homes. Who should be responsible for enforcing
strict building codes-the government or the people who build the homes?
64. Many people have a close
relationship with their pets. These people treat their birds, cats, or other
animals as members of their family. In your opinion are such relationships
good? Why or why not?
65. Does modern technology
make life more convenient, or was life better when technology was simpler?
66. Do you agree or disagree
with the following statement? Reading fiction such as novels and short stories
is more enjoyable than watching movies. Discuss.
67. Does travel help promote
understanding and communication among countries?
68. People work because they
need money to live. What are some other reasons that people work? Discuss one
or more of these reasons.
69. People believe that the
next world war will happen as a result of conflicts over water. Is this fear
justified?
70. Some people choose
friends who are different from themselves. Others choose friends who are
similar to themselves. Compare the advantages of having friends who are
different from you with the advantages of having friends who are similar to
you.
71. Financial education
should be a mandatory component of the school education. To what extent do you
agree or disagree?
72. Nowadays, food has
become easier to prepare. Has this change improved the way people live? Use
specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
73. It is better to have a
single language for the whole world. Do you agree or disagree?
74. Do you agree or disagree
with the following statement? Face-to-face communication is better than other
types of communication such as letters, email or telephone calls. Use specific
reasons and examples to support your answer.
75. Do you agree or disagree
with the following statement? Parents or other adult relatives should make
important decisions for their teenage children. Use specific reasons and
examples to support your answer.
76. Young people in the
modern world seem to have more power and influence than any previous
generation. Why is this case? What impact does this have on the relationship
between old and young people?
77. Do you agree or disagree
with the following statement?Dancing plays a vital role in a culture. Use
specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
78. Is technology
time-consuming or does it save time?
79. If you could create a
new holiday, what person or event would it honor and how would you want people
to celebrate it? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
80.The elderly people of
over 50 years of age should be retired and be replaced by the young. Do you
agree or disagree?
81. It is sometimes said
that borrowing money from a friend can harm or damage the friendship. Do you
agree? Why or why not? Use specific reasons and examples to support your
answer.
82. Smoking tobacco is as
dangerous as using other dangerous drugs. So it should be made illegal. Agree
or disagree?
83. Do you agree or disagree
with the following statement? Attending a live performance for example a play,
concert, or sporting event is more enjoyable than watching the same event on
television. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
84. Wild animals have no
place in the 21st century and trying to preserve these animals is a
waste of resources. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
85. Education is sometimes
considered as something for the youth. Some people however consider it as a
lifelong task. What is your opinion? Give reasons and support your answer with
specific examples.
86. It is compulsory for
children to attend school between the ages of 5 and 16. Many people are in
favor of raising the age of at which children must start their schooling to 6
or 7, and the age at which they are allowed to stop to 17 or 18. People of this
view believe it is important for young children to spend more time with their
parents, while they believe teenagers would gain more from staying in school
longer. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
87. The internet is viewed
as an excellent means of communication by many. However, there are some who
would argue that it is actually destroying our communication skills. Discuss
both views and give your opinion.
88. most people believe
money is a very important consideration when choosing a job as it can help you
get a better lifestyle; however there are some who believe it is more important
to have a job you enjoy and that this, and not money, will lead to greater
happiness and a more balanced personal life. Discuss both views and give your
own opinion.
89. there was a time when
people only shopped out of necessity, but these days shopping seems to have
become a new form of leisure activity. People don’t appreciate the value of
money anymore. To what extent do you agree with this view?
90. Sport is one of the most
popular draws on television today. Some people argue that the practice of
showing sport on television is to blame for poor health of the young generation
by encouraging them to watch rather than partake in physical activity. To what
extent do you agree with this view?
91. Nuclear power is a
necessary evil. Despite the potential human and environmental consequences of
radioactive fallout, nuclear energy is a genuine alternative to non-renewable
energy sources like oil and coal, which are quickly running out. In short, the
benefits of nuclear power outweigh the risks of using it. To what extent do you
agree or disagree?
92. Society is becoming
obsessed with material goods like fast cars, designer clothes and flashy
jewelry. We have stopped caring about the important things and that is why
divorce rates are so high and family bonds are not as strong anymore; our value
system is disintegrating. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
93. It has become very
common for people to borrow money. Most people have a credit card, a mortgage
and often they will buy a car on credit as well. Is this a good idea or is it
too risky? Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
94. Schools concentrate far
too much on traditional subjects which do not adequately prepare them for the
realistic demands of the modern world. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
95. Most people in the world
have to work to earn a living. However, many people work only for financial
gain that it involves, and not for any other rewards that a job can offer. What
do you think the main considerations when deciding what job to take should be?
96. In many places, prisons
are overcrowded and expensive for governments to maintain. Yet, when offenders
are released, they end up back in prison a short while later. Does prison work?
Should lawbreakers be rehabilitated or punished?
97. If racism and xenophobia
(A fear of foreigners or strangers) are attitudes that we are taught, not born
with, then the problems that come from them can be resolved. Discuss this view
and give your own opinion.
98. The state of the
environment is now a cause for concern in all countries across the world. Apart
from government measures and policies, what can individuals do on a personal
level to combat the negative effects that our lifestyles have on the
environment?
99. We live in a world in
which we are constantly exposed to advertising.to what extent does advertising
influence our choice as consumers, and what effect does it have on our
lifestyle? Discuss this issue and give your opinion.
100. The internet will bring
about a new freedom of information and so narrow the technology gap between
developed and developing countries.
101. Women will play an
increasingly important role in the workplace of the future. To what extent do
you agree or disagree?
102. One solution to the
decline in moral values in today’s world would be for men and women to return
to their traditional roles. Write a report for an educated non-specialist
audience for or against the above.
103. Women should be give up
their jobs and go back to their traditional role of home-maker in order to
reduce world unemployment. Give your opinions.
104. The quality of health
care a person receives should not depend on the size of their bank balance. The
government is responsible for providing a high level of health care for all its
citizens. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the above statement?
105. If countries are
serious about solving traffic problems, they should tax private cars very
heavily and use the money to provide free or very cheap rail travel. To what
extent do you agree or disagree?
106. As public safety is of
highest importance, it is often necessary to test new products on animals. It
is better for a few animals to suffer than for human life to be placed at risk
by untested products. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
107. A country’s first duty
to its citizen’s is to protect them. Therefore, it is logical that defense
should take up a significant proportion of the national budget. To what extent
do you agree or disagree?
108. Too much education is
dangerous. If people receive more education than they need to function in their
job, it only breeds dissatisfaction. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
109. Watching too much
television reduces people‘s capacity to think of themselves. Do you agree or
disagree?
110. As most foreign aid
often benefits the donor more than the receiver, developing countries should
refuse to repay their debts. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
111. Studying the English
language in an English speaking country is the best but not the only way to
learn the language. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
112. The world is
experiencing a dramatic increase in population. This is causing problems not
only for poor, undeveloped countries, but also for industrialized and developed
nations. Describe some of the problems that overpopulation causes, and suggest
at least one possible solution.
113. We have been living in
the nuclear age now for over half a century. Since the first atomic bombs were
developed, nuclear technology had provided governments with the ability to
totally destroy the planet. Yet the technology has been put to positive use as
an energy source and in certain areas of medicine. To what extent, is nuclear
technology a danger to life on earth? What are the benefits and risks
associated with its use?
114. What are the advantages
and disadvantages of a vegetarian diet?
115. Some workplaces do not
ensure the safety of workers who use dangerous equipment. What can be done?
116. Some vegetarians say it
is selfish and unnecessary for people to eat meat in a world where food
resources are growing increasingly scarce. Write a report for an association
which sells meat.
117. People who watch a lot
of violent television programs will find that this influences their behavior
when they are angry or upset. Do you agree?
118. Some people say that
smoking should be permitted in places where people gather to eat and to drink.
Others find the smell of the smoke unpleasant, and fear it is bad for
everybody’s health. What is your opinion?
119. What are the features of
an ideal television show for children below school age?
120. How would you ensure
children watch only suitable material on television?
121. What do you consider to
be the major achievement of the twentieth century?
122. The twentieth century
has seen more development than any preceding century. What evidence can you
offer to support this statement?
123. How can society reduce
the problems of people with disabilities?
124. Many people find it
very difficult to balance their responsibilities at home and in the workplace.
What advice would you give?
125. Students have to absorb
a great deal of information. Describe quick and efficient ways to do this.
126. It is the
responsibility of a government to protect its citizens from natural disasters.
How far do you agree?
127. Many businesses find it
difficult to assign enough time and resources to research and development. What
could a government do to encourage more company spending in this area?
128. Many people now have
personal computers, and use of electronic services such as the internet is
becoming more widespread. Some parents are concerned about children using the
internet to gamble or buy goods on credit. How can access to electronic
services be controlled?
129. Some companies say that
if an employee wants to smoke they must leave the building and smoke outside.
This takes time away from work, and the employers insist that this time be
counted as break time. This may not be fair to the smoker who may have to wait
a long time to get out of building. How could this problem be resolved? Give
reasons for your answer.
130. A balanced diet, or
eating balanced meals, is the key to a healthy life. To what extent do you
agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer.
131. Students find it very
hard to settle down in a new country. Later they find it hard to settle down
when they go home. Discuss.
132. Young people are not
ready to accept responsibility for the economic well-being of their country.
Discuss.
133. Parents should spend
more time with their children. Discuss.
134. Everyone should learn
how to cook. Discuss.
135. Road accidents are the
results of reckless driving. Discuss.
136. A large number of
deaths are caused by road accidents. Why do so many road accidents occur? Make
recommendations that would help to reduce the number of road accidents.
137. Many of the diseases
which afflict people who do office jobs are the direct result of a sedentary
lifestyle. Do you agree?
138. Schools and libraries
should ban computers games from their premises to stop students from wasting
time. Do you regard this as a good idea?
139. More and more qualified
people are moving to poor to rich countries to fill vacancies in specialist
areas like engineering, computing and medicine. Some believe that by
encouraging the movement of such people rich countries are stealing from poor
countries. Others feel that this is only part of the natural movements of
workers around the world. What is your opinion? Do you think rich countries
should pay poorer countries for the people they encourage to come? What others
measures could rich countries take to encourage qualified people to stay and
help develop their own countries?
140. one day the world’s oil
and gas reserves will run out. The search for alternative energy sources like
wind power, solar power, burning waste, and water power are causing as much
environmental damage as the oil and nuclear power sources they are intended to
replace. How far do you agree with this latter statement? What possible
benefits do the alternative energy sources bring? Or what damage do they cause?
141. Only formal
examinations, written or practical, can give a clear picture of students’ true
knowledge and ability at university level. Continuous assessment like course
work and projects are poor measures of student ability. How far do you agree
with the latter statement?
142. Although tourists in
many countries are a significant source of revenue, they are frowned upon for
various reasons. For the tourist, however, travelling is supposed to broaden
the mind and be an educational experience. In what ways do you think travelling
does this? And in what ways do you think travelling does the opposite, i.e.
narrows people minds?
143. As populations grow and
cities become more crowded, there is pressure throughout the world to construct
ever taller buildings to provide accommodation and offices. Many people object
to such developments, citing the social as well as the physical dangers. What
benefits do skyscrapers bring? Do you agree with the objections to skyscrapers?
144. Trees are essential for
the existence of the human race as they provide the oxygen that we need to
survive. Yet, daily all around the globe large areas of woodland are being
destroyed. Many people feel that they as individuals can do nothing and that
only governments and large companies can halt the destruction. How far do you
agree or disagree with this?
145. In the future, we will
have more and more leisure time as machines replace many of the tasks we do at
home and at work. Discuss the benefits this will bring and also the problems it
will cause.
146. the internet is
becoming more and more central to our lives, as it provides more and more
information, acts as interactive environment, and as a means of voting etc.
these functions have obvious benefits, but there are dangers involved in the
control the internet is exerting over our lives. What benefits are involved?
What dangers are involved? How far do you agree or disagree with the opinion
expressed?
147. High technology is now
being harnessed to help the elderly by providing monitoring, tracking and
perhaps, one day robots as companions. Whilst there are obvious benefits for
the elderly in these developments, some people are uneasy about the social
consequences. What are the negative consequences? What is your opinion on the
matter?
148. The wealth of a nation
is said to depend on the health of its citizens. Yet, in modern knowledge based
economies of the world, education is more and more being seen as the main force
in the development of all courses. Do you share this view? Are there other
factors involved? If so, which?
149. In today’s society both
western medicine and traditional, complementary forms of medicines are now
widely known and used. The effectiveness of these kinds of treatment is
determined by the patient’s mental attitude towards it. To what extent do you
agree or disagree?
150. A government’s role is
only to provide defense capability and urban infrastructure, such as roads,
water and power. All other services such as education, health and social
security, should be provided by private companies or individuals in the
community. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
151. Computers are essential
feature of modern education. Some people believe that certain subjects such as
mathematics are better taught using computers. Others, however, think that
there are aspects of education in which computer use is inadequate. Discuss
both these views and give your opinion.
152. The private motor
vehicle has greatly improved individual freedom of movement. Moreover, it has
become a status symbol. Its use though has impacted negatively on city centers
as a whole. What are some serious problems brought about by private motor
vehicles use? How can its use be reduced?
153. Universitiesshould be
concerned with educating people so that they have wide general knowledge and be
able to consider important matters from an informed viewpoint, and not simply
prepare students for jobs required by society. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
154. In the late twentieth
century, the proportion of the world’s population living in cities has
increased substantially. People have moved in ever-growing numbers from rural
to urban areas. As migration from rural areas to cities continues, it is
inevitable that the infrastructure in these cities will collapse. Give your
opinions.
155. Some people say
domestic animals, like cats, should not be kept in cities. Others say that such
companion animals are beneficial to the community. Which attitude do you
believe to be correct?
156. All children should
stay at school until they are eighteen years old. Discuss.
157. The high road toll (damage
or loss) is robbing our society of many people who could otherwise be leading
useful and productive lives. How can society protect itself from these losses?
158. Raising children is the
most important thing an adult ever does. Do you agree?
159. Students can become
very tired both emotionally and physically when they are preparing for an
examination. How can they look after their health while they are studying?
160. It is very important
that children should study hard at school. Time spent playing sport is time wasted.
Do you agree?
161. When students are in
large classes it is very hard for the teacher to give every student individual
attention. What can educational authorities do about this?
162. Can computerized data
collection on individuals be justified even though it endangers the rights of
individuals?
163. In the early 21st
century, many cities are being rapidly redeveloped. In this process, the needs
of special interest groups, such as people with physical disabilities, are
sometimes taken into account. How can society improve conditions for people
with physical disabilities?
164. Sometimes it is very
difficult to learn the way people do things in a new culture. What can we do to
make life easier for newcomers?
165. Children below the age
of sixteen should not be allowed in public places after midnight unless they
are accompanied by an adult who is responsible for them. How far do you agree
with this suggestion?
166. It is good for school
and university students to take part in part-time jobs. Do you agree or
disagree?
167. When people succeed, it
is because of hard work, luck has nothing to do in this? Do you agree or
disagree?
168. Some people argue that
governments should spend money only on medicine and education and those things
like theatres and sports stadiums are luxurious. Agree or disagree?
169. It has been said that
not everything that is learned is contained in books. Compare and contrast
knowledge gained from books.in your opinion, which source is more important?
Why?
170. Zoos are sometimes seen
as necessary but poor alternative to a natural environment. Is it necessary to
keep animals in zoos?
171. Nowadays, the gap
between countryside and cities has increased in many countries, is it the same
in your country? What can governments do to reverse this?
172. According to those who
are in travel business, the nature of the average holiday is changing. Rather
than seeking a relaxing break in a faraway place, people now want excitement on
their holiday and are keen to participate in unusual and challenging
activities. Do you agree or disagree?
173. Nowadays, food had
become easier to prepare. Has this change improved the way people live? Use
specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
174. Only, the people, who
earn a lot of money, are successful. Do you agree or disagree?
175. People listen to music
for different reasons and at different times. Why is music important to many
people? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
176. Some people believe
that students should be given one long vacation each year. Others believe that
students should have several short vacations throughout the year. Which
viewpoint do you agree with? Use specific reasons and examples to support your
answer.
177. Do you agree or
disagree with the statement? Modern technology is creating one world culture.
Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
178. More and more people
are relying on their private cars as their means of transportation. Describe
some of the problems the overreliance of cars can cause, and at least one
possible solution.
179. By punishing the
murderers with the death penalty, society is also guilty of committing murder.
Therefore, life is prison is better punishment for murderers. To what extent do
you agree or disagree?
180. Some people believe
that good leaders are born, whereas others hold the opinion that the leadership
qualities could be obtained during the life. Who represents the good leaders’
qualities indeed?Give your opinions.
181. Rich countries should
allow jobs for skilled and knowledgeable people from the poor countries? Do you
agree or disagree?
182. It has been said that
smoking kills. In some countries it has been made illegal for people to smoke
in all public places except in certain areas. All countries should make these
rules. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
183. The art should be
better funded by the government but there must be more control over where the
money goes. Discuss.
184. All education, primary,
secondary and further education should be free to all people and paid for by
the government. Do you agree or disagree with the statement?
185. In your country is
there more need for land to be left in its natural condition or is there more
need for land to be developed for housing and industry? Use specific reasons
and examples to support your answer.
186. People attend college
or university for many different reasons (for example, new experiences, career
preparation, increased knowledge and so on). Why do you think people attend
college or university? Use specific reasons and examples to support your
answer.
187. Some people think that
television is a very useful tool when it comes to education. Others argue that
television is a much overused, ineffective teacher. Discuss both these views
and give your views as to the usefulness as an educational tool.
188. Many teachers assign
homework to students every day. Do you think that daily homework is necessary
for students? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
189. 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?
190. Some people think that
children are more successful in foreign language studies than adults. Discuss.
191. Some people believe
that the best way of learning about life is by listening to the advice of
family and friends. Other people believe that the best way of learning is
through personal experience. Compare the advantages of these two different ways
of learning about life. Which do you think is preferable? Use specific reasons
and examples to support your answer.
192. Some people think that
it is important to use leisure time for activities that improve the mind, such
as reading and doing word puzzles. Others feel that it is important to rest the
mind during leisure time. What is your opinion?
193. Learning about the past
has no value for those living in the present. Do you agree or disagree? Use
specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
194. Nowadays we are
producing more and more rubbish. Why do you think it is happening? What can
governments do to help reduce the amount of rubbish produced?
195. While information
technology has become a way of life for some, others know very little about it
and are unlikely to learn. Eventually, we will have a polarized society and
this will lead to serious social problems. To what extent do you agree or
disagree to this statement?
196. Governments should make
more effort to promote alternative sources of energy. To what extent do you
agree or disagree with this opinion?
197. Discuss the impacts of
computer games on young minds.
198. Discuss the reasons of
brain drain. Describe its effects on their host and mother land.
199. Some people believe
that computers are more a hindrance than a help. Do you agree or disagree?
200. Urban areas are
witnessing an increase in obesity among children. What are the reasons? Suggest
some solutions.
201. Discuss the reasons and
solutions of terrorism.
202. Discuss the effects of
globalization on third world countries.
203. Nowadays, children as
young as ten are committing terrible crimes such as murder and rape. If
children commit such crimes age is no excuse and they should be sent to prison
for the rest of their lives. Do you agree?
204. Nowadays, employers
prefer youngsters to aged and experienced employees. Do you support this growing
trend? What are its reasons? Express your own point of view.
205. Different people have
different opinions regarding retirement age. What factors should be considered
while deciding the retirement age?
206. What is global warming?
Discuss the reasons and effects of this phenomenon. Suggest some solutions for
this problem.
207. Discuss the advantages
and disadvantages of living in a multicultural society?
208. Some are having the
opinion that the students should be allowed to choose subjects for their own,
but others are having the opinion that they should be asked to study all the
subjects. To which statement do you agree? Give your reasons.
209. There has been a huge
increase in the size of cities. Many cities have grown in a haphazard way. Why
is careful planning important in the development of cities?
210. Should parents be
obliged to immunize their children against common childhood disease? Or do
individuals have the right to choose not to immunize their children?
211. There is a gap in
standards of living between the countryside and cities. How true is this in
your country? What measures should be taken to reduce this gap?
212. Governments around the
world are spending billions on space programs. This money would be better spent
on research into improvements in human health. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
213. Animals should not be
used for the benefits of human beings, unless there is evidence that the
animals do not suffer in any way. To what extent do you agree or disagree with
the statement?
214. Explain how young
people’s behavior is influenced by their peers. What are the advantages and
disadvantages of this?
215. Some people say that
university students should use their own money to pay for their studies,
because it benefits individuals rather than the whole society. Others say that
the government should help with tuition fees. Discuss your opinion with reasons
and examples.
216. In some countries,
wedding ceremonies are becoming bigger and more expensive than in the past. Why
do you think this is the case? Is this a positive or negative development?
217. In some societies more
and more young people are choosing to live on their own. What do you think are
the reasons for this? Is it a negative or positive trend? Give examples from
your own knowledge.
218. People nowadays, are
not as fit and healthy as they were in the past. What are the reasons for long
term effects on health? What can be done about it? Give your suggestions?
219. Students should be
encouraged to criticize and evaluate their teachers in order to improve the
quality of education. However, others think that this will lead to a loss of
respect and discipline. Give your views with reasons and examples.
220. Many universities are
offering jobs to students one year prior to their completion of their
graduation course. Explain the advantages and disadvantages. Do you think that
it is a good practice? Why or why not?
221. Today, media publicity
has started affecting the personal lives of people, particularly celebrities.
Some people believe that such publicity is not only unavoidable, but also
essential. Others believe this is unwarranted intrusion and must be checked or
regulated. What is your opinion and why?
222. Some people think that
modern inventions have brought more problems than benefits in a human being’s
life. Do you agree or disagree? Explain with reasons and examples.
223. Adults always say that
life was better in their childhood than it is now. If children could articulate
their opinion, they will perhaps disagree. Why do, then, the adults say so? To
what extent do you agree with the stated opinion of the adults?
224. Do you think that
physical fitness is important for the sportsperson or it is the mental fitness
that matters more? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant
examples from your own knowledge or experience.
225. The food taste of
people is changing every day. What different types of food are available in
your country and what do you think is the best food?
226. Often, the family members have disagreements
(rift) among themselves due to the different education standards or different
professional experiences they have. In order to avoid this, do you think that
it should be mandatory to educate each and every one to at least a common level
and should government provide free education for this? Give reasons for your
answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
227. Road rage is increasing
day by day. Do you think moral education should be provided in the schools and
can this be the only solution to the problem? Is there any other way to curb
this by using strict laws?
228. Urbanization is the
major reason of many diseases. What kind of diseases do you think can occur and
what are the solutions?
229. Parenting is an art,
but these days due to hectic lifestyle, parents do not devote much time to
their kids. Do you think increasing crime rate is related to this or are there
any other reasons for this?
230. Most schools lay stress
on physical education activities for the students. Why do you think physical
education is important? Should such training be essential in the schools or
should it be optional? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant
examples from your own knowledge and experience.
231. Do films really
represent the culture and traditions of the country in which they are made? State
your opinion and give reasons for your answer. Include any relevant example
from your own knowledge or experience.
232. The influence of
western culture has changed the way we dress. Nowadays, we do not wear
traditional dresses, at least not in our day to day lives. Wearing ethnic
dresses is more of an exception than a rule. Do you think it is a good idea?
Give reasons for your answer. Include any relevant example from your own
knowledge or experience.
233. Nowadays, the world
economy is on rise; the women are coming out of their homes and have started
working. To help the working women, the government should provide free crèches,
play ways and schools to take care of their children. Do you agree with this
statement?
234. Children should enjoy
their childhood; therefore, they should not be under constant pressure to
achieve better results at school. Do you agree? Use specific reasons and
examples to explain your position.
235. Governments spend large
amounts of money on art that ordinary people do not understand. This money
could be better spent on things that benefit the majority of the population. Do
you agree? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your position.
236. With an increase in the
number of working women, the major problem that is coming today is juvenile
delinquency. To what extent do you agree? Use specific reasons and examples to
explain your position.
237. Today, rote learning is
replacing true education and is thought of an easy means to achieve success. To
what extent do you agree? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your
position.
238. The best measure of success
is how much money you earn. To what extent do you agree? Use specific reasons
and examples to explain your position.
239. Women make better
parents than men. That is why society has given them a greater role in raising
children. Do then men not have much role to play as parents? Discuss the issue,
stating your opinion and supporting it with reasons and examples from your
personal lives.
240. Banning smoking at the
educational institutions, businesses and public places is a good idea and is in
overall public interest, but it does take away some of our freedom. Do you agree?
Use specific reasons and examples to explain your position.
241. Children these days are
suffering from diseases that were once thought to afflict adults only. Obesity
is today one of the most common diseases prevalent among children. What are the
causes and remedies? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your
position.
242. Rich countries should
deny entry to scientists, doctors and engineers because they are required more
in their native (developing) countries. What is your opinion and why? Give
reasons for your answer and include any relevant example from your own
knowledge and experience.
243. Are the sporting events
beneficial for a country or merely wastage of time and money? What is your
opinion and why? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant example
from your own knowledge and experience.
244. Should there be extra
classes for weak students? Or will these classes turn out to be an extra burden
on the already overburdened students as well as on schools? Discuss both views
and give your opinion with reasons and examples.
245. Criminals should not be
imprisoned. Rather they should be given education / training. To what extent do
you agree / disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant
example from your own knowledge and experience.
246. Nowadays, cultures of
different countries are becoming similar. Thus, many people say you do not need
to go abroad to learn their culture. To what extent do you agree / disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant example from your own
knowledge and experience.
247. Old people do plenty of
activities. What do old people do in your country and how do these activities
help them and the society in general?
248. It is generally believed that some people for
instance sports persons and musicians, are born with certain talents while
others are not. However, some people claim that any child can be taught to
become a good sportsperson or musician. Discuss both these views and give your
own opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant example from
your own knowledge and experience.
249. These days, people get information of the
whole world with the help of media. What are the advantages and disadvantages
of media? Give relevant examples.
250. Some people say that
happiness is related to money while others say that happiness has nothing to do
with money. What is your viewpoint?
251. People who cannot work
with computers are disadvantaged both in their personal and professional lives.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? Use specific reasons and examples to
explain your position.
252. Should parents be
guided about how to become good parents, at their children’s school? What is
your viewpoint and why? What are the qualities of a good parent, according to
you?
253. Education is a lifelong
task. Do you agree? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your position.
254. Nowadays, people care
about their appearance more than they did earlier. To what extent do you agree
or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant example from
your own knowledge and experience.
255. Some educationists want
government to spend more money on academics than on recreation and sports.
Others believe that sports education is equally, if not more, important. Which
point of view do you agree with? Give reasons for your answer and include any
relevant example from your own knowledge and experience.
256. Technology has changed
the way we live, the way we conduct ourselves and the way we think. It has also
made us freer than we ever were in the past. Some people however believe that
technology has caused more problems for us than it has solved. What is your
opinion and why?
257. In this material age,
we can ever afford to splurge recklessly. Shopping has become a favorite
pastime, particularly among the young. What do you think is the reason? Do you
think the young must be encouraged to desist from shopping as a pastime? Use
specific reasons and examples to explain your position.
258. Some people still
prefer to ride cycles to their workplaces and back. Do you think this helps us
in any way in today’s life? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your
position.
259. The rising level of
congestion and air pollution found in most of the world cities can be
attributed directly to the rapidly increasing number of private cars in use. In
order to reverse the decline in quality of life in cities, attempts must be
made to encourage people to use their cars less and public transport more. Do
you agree? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your position.
260. The idea of going
overseas for a university degree is an exciting prospect for many people. But
while it may offer some advantages, it is probably better to say home because
of the difficulties a student inevitably encounters living and studying in a
different culture. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for
your answer.
261. Nurture has more to do
with making of our character than nature, or simply, the genetics. To what
extent do you agree or disagree? Use specific reasons and examples to explain
your position.
262. Should wealthy nations
shoulder a greater share of costs to save the environment of the earth for
future generations? Or should saving the environment be equal responsibility of
the rich and the poor nations, since both will face the consequences of failure
in equal measure? What is your opinion and why?
263. In this 21st
century there is no use to pay expenses for production of wild animals. To what
extent do you agree? Give reasons for your answers and include any relevant
examples from your own knowledge or experience.
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