1 Today, many news reports show images of violence or disasters. What are the causes of this? What are the effects of this on individuals and society as a whole?
2 Some people think that the only purpose of prison is to punish criminals. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
3 Schools should only provide subjects that are beneficial to students’ future careers. Other subjects, such as music and sports, are not important. Do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
4 Students from rural areas often find it difficult to access university education. Some people think that universities should make it easier for them to access higher education. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
5 The unemployment rate is very high in some countries. Some people think that in these countries, many young people only need to receive primary education. Secondary education should not be offered to young people who will have little hope of finding a job. Do you agree or disagree?
6 The government should pay for people’s education and health care. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
7 Nowadays, people often buy food transported from other countries. Do you think the benefits of this outweigh the drawbacks?
8 Cheap air travel is increasingly popular in the world today. To what extent do you think the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?
9 As the number of cars increases, more money has to be spent on the road systems. Some people think that governments should be responsible for the costs. Others, however, argue that car users should pay for the costs. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
10 Good health is a basic human need. Some people think that healthcare services should be provided by the government rather than by private companies. Do you agree or disagree?
11 Some people believe that only the fittest and strongest individuals and teams can succeed in sports. Others think that success in sports depends on mental attitudes. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
12 The older generations have traditional ideas about the correct ways of life, thinking and behaviour. Some people argue that these ideas are not helpful for the younger generation to prepare for modern life. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
13 Mobile phones and the Internet are useful tools. However, not many elderly people use them. In what ways can mobile phones and the Internet be useful to elderly people? How can elderly people be encouraged to use them?
14 Traditional games are more helpful in developing children’s skills than modern games. Do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
15 Individuals cannot do anything to improve the environment. Only governments and large companies can make a difference. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
16 The increasing production of consumer goods results in damage to the environment. Why is this the case? Suggest some solutions.
17 International travel is cheaper and more convenient than ever. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
18 Foreign visitors to museums and art galleries should pay more than local visitors. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
19 Developing countries need help from international organisations. Some people think that financial aid should be provided, while others think that practical aid and advice would be better. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
20 Animal experiments have been used to develop new medicines and to test the safety of many other products. Some people think that these experiments should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree?