Page 97 - NEW_English_Spring 7
P. 97
Statements of opinion Interruptions
In my opinion… Can I add something here?
Frankly, I think… Is it okay if I jump in for a second?
Personally, I think that… If I might add something…?
If you ask me, I think that… Sorry to interrupt, but…
As far as I’m concerned… (on being interrupted) You didn’t let me finish…
Or Please allow me to finish…
Settling an argument
Let’s just move on, shall we?
Let’s drop it.
I think we’re going to have to agree to disagree.
Whatever you say/If you say so. (sarcastically)
Let’s learn to write
A debate has the following elements:
a. Argument Ideas: Ideas or points to be included in the debate/organiser
b. Salutation: Address the audience/jury respectfully.
c. Introduction: Begin with introduction of your topic (you could use a quotation,
statistics), etc. even before salutation.
d. Stating the stand: Make your stand very clear from the beginning: whether you
are going to speak ‘AGAINST’ or ‘FOR’ the motion.
e. Main points: Highlight the main points strongly.
f. Develop points: Put forth relevant examples, statistics, etc.
g. Conclusion: Emphasise your view once again.
h. Closing: Close your debate with a ‘thank you’.
You can use starters like:
Critics argue that…
While it might be true that…, still all in all…
Others may say that...but I argue…
A common argument against this position is...but…
It may be true...however…
It is easy to think...but when you look at the facts…
97
