Controversial Opinions

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Class Overview

Level: Intermediate to Advanced (B1-C1)

Duration: 60-90 minutes

Focus: Speaking, Opinion Expression, Debate Skills, Critical Thinking

Objective: Practice expressing, defending, and discussing controversial opinions while learning to respectfully disagree and engage in meaningful debate.

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Video Resources

Video 1: Warm-up

Click to watch: Controversial Opinions Discussion

Purpose: Warm-up activity to introduce controversial topics in a light-hearted way

When to use: Beginning of class (5-7 minutes)

Video 2: Deep Dive

Click to watch: Full Discussion

Purpose: Extended discussion demonstrating how to debate controversial opinions respectfully

When to use: Main activity (15-20 minutes)

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Key Vocabulary

Expressing Opinions

In my opinion / view... Used to introduce your personal viewpoint
I (firmly) believe that... Express a strong conviction
From my perspective... Share your unique point of view
I'm convinced that... Show certainty about your opinion
The way I see it... Introduce your interpretation
If you ask me... Offer unsolicited but honest opinion

Agreeing

I completely agree with you Full agreement
You're absolutely right Confirm correctness
I couldn't agree more Maximum agreement
That's exactly how I feel Share same sentiment
You've got a point there Acknowledge valid argument

Disagreeing Politely

I see what you mean, but... Acknowledge then counter
I'm afraid I disagree Politely express disagreement
I see your point, however... Transition to counterargument
That's not quite how I see it Soft disagreement
I beg to differ Formal polite disagreement
With all due respect... Preface to disagreement

Debate Vocabulary

Controversial Causing disagreement or discussion
Stance Your position on an issue
To take sides Choose one position in a debate
To play devil's advocate Argue opposite view to test argument
To be on the fence Undecided between two positions
Hot topic Currently popular controversial subject
Touchy subject Sensitive topic requiring careful discussion

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Controversial Statements

Discuss these statements. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

Money can buy happiness

Social media does more harm than good

It's better to be feared than loved

Everyone should be vegetarian

Traditional education is outdated

There's no such thing as bad publicity

People are naturally selfish

Technology is making us less social

Reality TV shows are a waste of time

Failure is more important than success

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Discussion Questions

General Questions

What makes an opinion "controversial"?
Is it important to voice your opinion on controversial topics? Why or why not?
Have you ever changed your opinion about something controversial? What made you change your mind?
Can two people with completely opposite opinions both be right?
How do you react when someone strongly disagrees with your opinion?
Are there any topics that should never be discussed in polite conversation?

Deep Thinking Questions

Do you think social media has made people more or less willing to express controversial opinions?
Is it possible to have a truly objective opinion on a controversial topic?
Should celebrities and public figures be more careful about expressing controversial opinions?
How can we disagree with someone without being disagreeable?
What's the difference between having an opinion and being opinionated?
Can exposure to controversial opinions make us more tolerant or less tolerant?

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Ground Rules for Debates

✓ Listen actively and respectfully
✓ Don't interrupt while others are speaking
✓ Focus on ideas, not personal attacks
✓ It's okay to disagree, but be polite
✓ Support your opinions with reasons and examples
✓ Be open-minded - it's okay to change your mind

Remember: The goal is not to win arguments, but to understand different perspectives and improve communication skills!