Art is considered an important part of a society as well as an expression of its culture. Do you think it is important for children to be taught art? Do you think children should be encouraged to focus on art rather than other subjects?
Some people believe that the government should provide financial assistance to all artists, including painters, musicians, and poets. Others think that it is a waste of money. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some believe that the government should support artists like musicians, painters, and poets, while others argue that this is a misuse of funds. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Watching a live performance such as a play, concert, or sporting event is more enjoyable than watching the same event on television. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
All museums and art galleries should be free because they are an important part of a country's culture. How far do you agree with this statement?
Museums and art galleries should concentrate on local works rather than showing the cultures or artworks from other countries. What is your opinion on this?
Some feel that it is important for all adults to engage in the arts in their free time as a hobby. Others disagree. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
Some people feel that cities should allow spaces for graffiti, while others feel it should be banned. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
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?
Some believe that it is beneficial to show foreign films, while others feel this can have a negative impact on local culture. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
It is better to learn the way people lived in the past through films and video records than through written documents. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some believe that research on family history is a useful thing to do, while others disagree. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
Television injects violence into children, and programs with violent scenes should be banned. Do you agree or disagree with the statement?
Many people believe that increasing levels of violence on television and in films is having a direct result on levels of violence in society. Others claim that violence in society is the result of more fundamental social problems such as unemployment. How much do you think society is affected by violence in the media?
Media coverage of violent crime frightens people and encourages criminals. Some people say it should be banned from newspapers and TV programmes. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people today argue that media has become increasingly nostalgic and unoriginal. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people think that newspapers are the best way to learn the news. However, others believe that they can learn news better through other media. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
The news is an important source of knowledge for all of us about the world, especially in this era of technology. Journalists are mainly responsible for bringing this news to us, but not all of them are true to their responsibilities and ethics. How much can we trust the journalists?
Many people feel that media coverage has become increasingly biased today. Why is this? What can be done to fix this problem?
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?
The popularity of news media often has a significant influence on people's lives. Some people believe this to be a negative development. Do you agree or disagree?
Most people have forgotten the meaning behind traditional or religious festivals; during festival periods, people nowadays only want to enjoy themselves. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
In some parts of the world traditional festivals and celebrations have disappeared or are disappearing. What problems is this causing? What measures could be taken to counter this situation?
Many old buildings protected by law are part of a nation's history. Some people think they should be knocked down and replaced by new ones. How important is it to maintain old buildings? Should history stand in the way of progress?
Some international companies are very powerful now and many people believe that it is a negative development. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Due to the development and rapid expansion of supermarkets in some countries, many small, local businesses are unable to compete. Some people think that the closure of local businesses will bring about the death of local communities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
In many countries, coffee chains are expanding rapidly, which some claim threatens the survival of small local cafés. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people think that when recruiting, companies should aim to take on people who are innovative and able to work independently, while others consider they should recruit people who are able to work in a team and follow instructions. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people think that the best way to learn about business is to study a course at a college or university. Others believe that there are other, better ways to learn about business. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people think that they should spend the money they earn now enjoying life, while others think that the money should be saved for the future. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
It is important for everyone, including young people, to save money for their future. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
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?
Nowadays online shopping has become more popular than in-store shopping. Is it a positive or a negative development?
Nowadays, it is easier for young people to have a credit card compared to the past. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?
In numerous nations, there is a growing trend for individuals to frequently discuss financial matters, such as their earnings or expenditures, in everyday conversation. What are the reasons behind this phenomenon? Is it advantageous or detrimental?
In many countries, large infrastructure projects are increasingly funded and managed by private companies rather than governments. To what extent do you think this is a positive or negative development?
Developing countries should be encouraged to implement high tariffs to grow their local industries. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many people believe that safe investments are better for their long-term future, while others feel there is more value in risky investments. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
Some companies sponsor sports as a way to advertise themselves. Some people think it is good, while others think there are disadvantages to this. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
Many people consider shopping malls as great places to spend their leisure time and meet others. People in the past, however, visited shopping malls only when necessary. To what extent do you think this is a negative trend?
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?
Some people think that the Internet has brought people closer together, while others think that people and communities are becoming more isolated. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
Some people think that social networking sites have a huge negative impact on both individuals and society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Always telling the truth is the most important consideration in any relationship between people. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people argue that technological inventions, such as mobile phones, are making people less socially interactive. Do you agree or disagree?
The use of cell phones (mobile phones) has increased rapidly in the twenty-first century. Additionally, cell phones can now be used for many purposes besides making phone calls. What are the advantages and disadvantages of cell phones?
Many teenagers now have their own smartphone. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?
Many people think technological devices such as smartphones, tablets, and mobile phones bring more disadvantages than advantages. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
According to a recent study, the more time people use the Internet, the less time they spend with real human beings. Some people say that instead of seeing the Internet as a way of opening up new communication possibilities worldwide, we should be concerned about the effect this is having on social interaction. How far do you agree with this opinion?
Some people say that the internet provides people with a lot of valuable information. Others think access to so much information creates problems. Which view do you agree with?
We live in a world of technology these days. While the internet brings with it clear advantages, the problems in terms of control and security of information outweigh the advantages. To what extent do you agree?
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?
In the last 20 years, there have been significant developments in the field of information technology (IT), for example, the World Wide Web and communication by email. However, future developments in IT are likely to have more negative effects than positive. To what extent do you agree with this view?
More and more people prefer to read e-books rather than paper books. What are the reasons for this? What problems can this cause for libraries?
Today, children are spending much more time watching TV compared to the past. Why do you think this happens? Is this a positive or a negative change?
Many modern children spend a great deal of time sitting in front of a television or computer screen. This is extremely harmful to their development. Therefore, parents should strictly limit the time that children spend in this way. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Today, many people use the internet and smartphones to transfer money to friends, family, and businesses. Is this a positive or negative development?
Online currencies have become more common in recent years. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development?
Advanced technology has brought many beneficial changes to the world. However, some old people today struggle with the use of technologies such as mobile phones and the Internet. How can the elderly benefit from using advanced technologies? How can the elderly be encouraged to use consumer electronics more often?
Some people say students of different age groups in school should be put in the same class. What is your opinion?
Some people think schools should group pupils according to their academic ability, but others believe pupils should be educated together. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
As reading is important for a good education, we should encourage our children to read whatever appeals to them. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Many parents believe that when their children read books for entertainment, they are wasting their time, and that they should only read serious, educational books. What is your opinion about this?
Some people think that children should learn to read from traditional paper books, while others feel that it is fine to start the reading process on an e-reader (like a Kindle or iPad). Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
Many people feel that students should learn from online materials, while others feel that it is better to use printed materials. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Art and music are considered some of the fundamental elements of all societies. 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?
Some people believe that teaching children at home is best for a child's development, while others think that it is important for children to go to school. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both methods and give your own opinion.
Around the world, children learn English as a second language at school. However, in some places, they also learn it at kindergarten (pre-school care, when children are aged two to five). Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of learning English at kindergarten.
To learn effectively, children need to eat a healthy meal at school. How true is this statement? Whose responsibility is it to provide food for school children?
Some people believe that one-on-one lessons are better for learning, while others think that group lessons are superior. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Some people say History is one of the most important school subjects. Other people think that, in today's world, subjects like Science and Technology are more important than History. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some believe secondary students should learn international news as a subject at school, while others think it's a waste of time. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
In poorer families, school children may have to work part-time as well as study. Discuss the merits and demerits for these children.
Children brought up in families with less money are better prepared for life than those from wealthy families. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
In developing countries, children in rural communities have less access to education. Some people believe that this problem can be solved by providing more schools and teachers, while others think that the problem can be solved by providing computers and Internet access. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
Formal examinations are the only effective way to assess a student's performance. Continual assessment such as coursework and projects is not a satisfactory way to do this. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement.
Formal exams are used to assess students at the end of each semester in many countries. Why are these exams used by schools and universities? What other types of assessment are possible?
University education should be free to everyone, regardless of income. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people believe that teaching children at home is best for a child's development, while others think that it is important for children to go to school. Discuss the advantages of both methods and give your own opinion.
Giving lectures in auditoriums to large numbers of students is an old way of teaching. With the technology available today, there is no justification for it, and everything should be done online. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give your own opinion.
Nowadays, online education has become popular as more institutes and companies are offering courses online. However, many people prefer traditional, classroom training or study. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both methods.
Full-time university students spend most of their time studying. They should be doing other activities too. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many university students want to learn about different subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others feel it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for their qualification. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some argue that teachers should focus on academics more than motivating students. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
In many countries, primary and secondary schools close for two months or more in the summer holidays. What is the value of long school holidays? What are the arguments in favour of shorter school holidays?
Some think that students must travel to another country in order to learn its language and customs. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people say that the only reason for learning a foreign language is to travel to or work in a foreign country. Others say that these are not the only reasons why someone should learn a foreign language. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes (for example, working for a charity, improving the neighbourhood, or teaching sports to younger children). Do you agree or disagree?
Things like puzzles, board games, and pictures can contribute to a child's development. What would you give a child to help him/her develop and why?
The best way to teach children to cooperate is through team sports at school. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people believe that sport is an essential part of school life for children, while others feel it should be purely optional. Discuss these opposing views and give your own opinion.
In recent years, the family structure and the role of its members are gradually changing. What kinds of changes can occur? Do you think these changes are positive or negative?
Some people think that the government should pay one of the parents of very young children to stay at home to look after their children. What do you think would be the advantages and disadvantages of this policy?
Some feel that the best way to ensure a happy home life for children is for parents to take a parenting course once a year. Others disagree. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
In many countries today, people in cities either live alone or in small family units, rather than in large, extended family groups. Is this a positive or negative trend?
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.
Grandparents play a big role in bringing up children. Do you think it is useful for grandparents? Discuss reasons with your opinion.
It is better for children to grow up in the countryside than in a big city. Do you agree or disagree?
In some countries, children have very strict rules of behaviour, while in other countries they are allowed to do almost anything they want. To what extent should children have to follow rules?
Some people believe that children of all ages should have extra responsibilities (for example, helping at home or at work). Others believe that, outside of school, children should be free to enjoy their lives. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
In today's competitive world, many families find it necessary for both parents to go out to work. While some say the children in these families benefit from the additional income, others feel they lack support because of their parents' absence. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Some people argue that parents should have a strong influence on their children's choice of friends and life partners. Others believe that young people should make these decisions independently. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people choose to have their first child at an older age. What are the reasons? Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
In some countries, many more people are choosing to live alone nowadays than in the past. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
Today, many people do not know their neighbors. Why is this? What can be done about this?
Some people spend a lot of money on their wedding ceremonies. However, others feel like it is unnecessary to spend a lot. Discuss both viewpoints and give your own opinion.
Young people are now spending more and more time and money following fashion trends. Is this a positive or negative development?
Many aspects of the way people dress today are influenced by global fashion trends. How has global fashion become such a strong influence on people's lives? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
In some countries, it is common for women to find a job when their children are young. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?
Women are better at childcare than men; therefore, they should focus more on raising children and less on their working life. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Many people try to balance work and other parts of their life. However, this is very difficult to do. What are the problems associated with this? What is the best way to achieve a better balance?
Many people work long hours, leaving very little time for leisure activities. Does this situation have more advantages or more disadvantages?
Do you think it is better for students to work before their university study? Why?
The length of the working week does not reflect modern lifestyle needs. It should be substantially reduced to give people more leisure time and time with their families. How far do you agree with this statement?
As most people spend a major part of their adult life at work, job satisfaction is an important element of individual well-being. What factors contribute to job satisfaction? How realistic is the expectation of job satisfaction for all workers?
In many workplaces, creativity and imagination are becoming more valued than technical expertise. Why is this the case? Is this a positive or negative development?
The number of people working online from home has grown in some countries. What advantages and disadvantages can come from this trend?
Remote work has become increasingly common in recent years. Some argue this impairs work habits generally. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
These days, many people have their own computer and telephone, so it is quite easy for them to do their job at home. Does working at home have more advantages or more disadvantages?
Interviews form the basic selecting criteria for most large companies. However, some people think that the interview is not a reliable method of choosing whom to employ. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
In education and employment, some people work harder than others. Why do some people work harder? Is it always good to work hard?
Some employers want to be able to contact their staff at all times, even on holidays. Does this development have more advantages than disadvantages?
Nowadays, many jobs are more stressful and the working day is long. What are the reasons for this? What can employers do to help employees?
Some people say that teenagers should work part-time and earn money. This way, they will learn basic lessons about work and become more disciplined. Others argue that teenagers shouldn't sacrifice their rest and after-school activities to work. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people prefer to spend more time improving their careers. Others think that it's more important to spend time with family and friends. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Some think that developing a successful career is more important than spending time with family and friends, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Childhood obesity is becoming a serious problem in many countries. Explain the main causes and effects of this problem, and suggest some possible solutions.
The percentage of overweight children in western society has increased by almost 20% in the last ten years. Discuss the causes and effects of this disturbing trend.
Modern children are suffering from diseases that were once considered to be meant for adults only. Obesity is a major disease prevalent among children. What are its causes and what solutions can be offered?
Some people believe that it is the responsibility of individuals to take care of their own health and diet. Others, however, believe governments should make sure that their citizens have a healthy diet. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Eating a balanced diet is the most important factor for a healthy life. To what extent do you agree?
Today's society provides people with various ways to lose weight, such as special diets or exercise regimes. Many people believe, though, that poor food and today's lifestyle should be addressed first. What is your opinion?
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.
Everyone should become a vegetarian because eating meat can cause serious health problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Children in many countries are eating more fast food and convenience snacks. Why are children doing this and how serious are the consequences?
Scientists agree that many people eat too much junk food and it is damaging their health. Some people think that this problem can be solved by educating people, while others believe that education will not work. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Some think that governments should tax unhealthy foods to encourage people to eat healthier. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people think the government should subsidise fruits and vegetables to make healthy food more affordable. Others argue that the government should tax unhealthy food instead. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people think that shops should not be allowed to sell food or drinks that are scientifically proven to be bad for people's health. Do you agree or disagree?
"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 preventative measures. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Every government has a duty to provide free healthcare for its people. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a government providing free healthcare? Which one exceeds the other?
Health services are a basic necessity. However, private companies have made them quite costly for ordinary individuals. Do the advantages of private healthcare outweigh its disadvantages?
Research into medical treatments is essential to improve health and fight disease. Who do you think should fund this research: individuals, private companies, or governments?
Some think that exercise is the key to health, while others feel that having a balanced diet is more important. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
In some societies, it is increasingly common to try to achieve good health and fitness through physically demanding sports, special diets, or preventative medicine—conventional or alternative. Some people, however, believe that the best way to stay fit and healthy is simply to lead a normal life. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Some people think that healthcare should be free for everyone. Others think that people should pay for their medical costs themselves. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
The number of people interested in cosmetic surgery is increasing in order to improve their physical appearance. Why do people undergo operations to change the way they look? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?
In recent years, life has become more stressful than it has ever been. As a consequence, more and more people are suffering from stress-related problems. What factors are contributing to this increase and what do you think can be done to overcome the current problems?
These days, if people have health problems, many do not visit doctors. They try to get better at home by themselves. Is this a positive or negative development?
Many feel that going to the gym is the best way to stay fit. Others think there are more effective methods. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
The best way to improve health is to do regular exercise. To what extent do you agree?
In many countries, there is a shortage of housing due to a growing population. Some people argue that new towns should be built in the countryside, while others argue for the regeneration of cities. What are the advantages and disadvantages of building new towns in the countryside?
The increasing housing problem in big cities has social consequences. Some people say that only the government can solve this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Although many people value their public parks, this space could be better used for other purposes such as residential areas for the ever-growing population or to develop business and boost economies. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
The lack of affordable housing has become a major problem in many growing cities. Some people feel that the government should provide low-cost housing as the solution for this problem. To what extent do you agree that this is the best way to tackle the shortage of housing? What other solutions would you propose?
Some people believe that housing is a basic human right for all individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people prefer to live in a house, while others feel that there are more advantages to living in an apartment. Are there more advantages than disadvantages of living in a house compared with living in an apartment?
Some people think that cities are the best places to live. Others prefer to live in a rural area. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of living in the city to living in the countryside.
Living in large cities today poses many problems for people. What are these problems? Should governments encourage more people to live in smaller towns?
Some people believe that in the future, most cities will become unlivable due to pollution and overcrowding. Others think technological innovation will solve these problems. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
Nowadays, more and more people are moving from the countryside to cities, which are becoming overcrowded. What are the reasons for this movement to cities and what can be done to reduce it?
More and more people are migrating to cities in search of a better life, but city life can be extremely difficult. Explain some of the difficulties of living in a city. How can governments make urban life better for everyone?
Global warming is one of the most serious issues that the world is facing today. What are the causes of global warming and what measures can governments and individuals take to tackle the issue?
Some people think that preserving the natural environment is crucial; however, most make no effort to do so. Why do you think this is happening? What are some simple actions that could help the environment?
Some people think that planting trees in open spaces in cities and towns is more important than building houses. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people think that resources should be spent on protecting wild animals, while others think those would be better used for the human population. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
Most people do not care enough about environmental issues. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Despite the environmental concerns raised by scientists and environmentalists, people are not changing their lifestyles. Why is this the case? What could be done to encourage people to save the environment?
These days, noise and air pollution are serious environmental problems. Some people think that air travel is to be blamed. Others believe that we should reduce the number of vehicles on the roads. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.
Water pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues in many parts of the world. Why is water pollution a growing concern for both individuals and governments? What measures can be taken to reduce the problem effectively?
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of oil drilling operations in remote locations around the world. This has brought economic benefits to some countries, though it has also raised concerns about the environmental impact of these operations. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
Fossil fuels are the main source of energy around the world today. In some countries, the use of alternative sources of energy is replacing fossil fuels. Is this a positive or negative development?
Some people believe that air travel should be restricted because it causes serious pollution and will use up the world's resources. Do you agree or disagree?
Some people say cheap air travel is good because it enables ordinary people to travel, while others argue that it is bad for the environment. Discuss both views and include your opinion.
Long distance flights consume the amount of fuel that a car uses for many years and pollute the air. Some people think that we should discourage non-essential flights, such as tourist travel, rather than limit the use of cars. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people have decided to reduce the number of times they fly every year or to stop flying altogether. Do you think the environmental benefits of this development outweigh the disadvantages for individuals and businesses?
In some countries, private cars are now banned from certain city centers. What are the advantages of such a system and do you think that this is something that most cities should adopt?
Some people think that cars should be banned in big city centres. Do you agree or disagree?
In some cities, people are choosing cars instead of bicycles, while in other cities, riding bikes is replacing cars. Why is this the case? Which development do you think is better?
Some people say that cars are best to use in cities while others think that bicycles are better. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
Car ownership has increased so rapidly over the past thirty years that in many cities around the world there are constant traffic jams. How true do you think this statement is? What measures can governments take to discourage people from owning cars?
Some people are reducing their walks; however, many health experts say that walking is the best exercise to maintain health. Why do people walk less? What might encourage people to walk longer distances?
Today, much of the food people eat is transported from farms that are thousands of miles away. Some people believe it would be better for the environment and the economy if people only consumed food produced by local farmers. Would the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
In many countries nowadays, consumers can go to a supermarket and buy food produced all over the world. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
Over the last few decades, there has been an increase in international tourism. Some people think that tourism is beneficial for local communities and should be encouraged. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
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?
Tourism is encouraged in many countries. Does tourism bring more advantages or disadvantages to a country?
International tourism has brought enormous benefits to many places. At the same time, there is concern about its impact on local inhabitants and the environment. Do the disadvantages of international tourism outweigh the advantages?
Some feel that tourism endangers culture while others feel it is beneficial. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
A lot of places in the world rely on tourism as a main source of income. Unfortunately, tourism can also be a source of problems if it is not managed correctly. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of tourism in the modern world. Do you think that the benefits of tourism outweigh its drawbacks?
International travel has become more affordable and many countries are opening their doors to increase the number of tourists. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?
Is freedom of speech necessary in a free society?
With the improvements in today's healthcare, 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?
Many people believe that global environmental problems should be dealt with internationally rather than domestically. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some believe that tackling environmental issues should be managed by a global organization instead of being handled individually by national governments. Do you agree or disagree with this belief?
Some people think that environmental problems are too big for individuals to solve, while others think that the government cannot solve these environmental problems unless individuals take action. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people believe that the government should take care of old people, whereas others oppose this view. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Many people who care for the elderly do not have enough time to look after them. What are the problems related to this? What are some possible solutions?
In Britain, 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 do you think should pay for this care: the government or the family?
In many countries, insufficient respect is shown to older people. What do you think may be the reason for this? What problems might this cause in society?
Some people believe that the government should be responsible for taking care of the disadvantaged members of society, like unemployed and homeless people. Do you agree or disagree?
In some countries, governments provide payments for unemployed people. How does this impact people? Is this a positive or negative development?
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?
Some people think that famous people's support towards international aid organizations draws attention to problems, while others think that celebrities make the problems less important. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
Some people say that there is no need to give international aid by governments as they already have unemployment and homelessness in their own country. How far do you agree or disagree with this viewpoint?
The number of older people is increasing. Some people think it will cause problems to their countries, while others believe this group is important to society. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
In many countries, the proportion of older people is steadily increasing. Does this trend have more positive or negative effects on society? What is your opinion on that?
Around the world, people are now living longer than ever before in the past. Some say an ageing population creates problems for governments. Others believe there are benefits to society having more elderly people. To what extent do the advantages of possessing an ageing population outweigh the disadvantages?
The gap between the rich and the poor is becoming wider; the rich are becoming richer, and the poor are getting even poorer. What problems can this situation cause? What can be done to reduce this gap?
Most of the urgent problems can only be solved with international cooperation. Do you agree or disagree?
Even though globalization affects the world's economies in a very positive way, its negative side should not be forgotten. What is your view? Discuss.
Countries are becoming more and more similar because people are able to buy the same products anywhere in the world. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
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?
Several languages are in danger of extinction because they are spoken by very small numbers of people. Some people say that governments should spend public money on saving these languages, while others believe that would be a waste of money. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.
The development of tourism contributed to English becoming the most prominent language in the world. Some people think this will lead to English becoming the only language to be spoken globally. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having one language in the world?
Some countries have legal ages at which people can drink. Other countries believe not having strict laws is a better policy. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
Some people today have argued that countries should interfere less in the affairs of other nations. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some feel that individuals today spend too much time following political news, while others feel politics deserves greater attention. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
Some people believe charity organizations should only offer help to people of their own countries. Others claim that these organizations should give aid to people in great need wherever they live. Discuss both opinions and tell which side you agree with.
Many offenders commit more crimes after serving their first punishment. Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken to tackle this problem?
Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people believe that children who commit crimes should be punished. Others think the parents should be punished instead. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer sentences. Others, however, believe there are better alternative ways of reducing crime. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some feel that punishment should focus more on rehabilitation instead of long prison terms. Others feel prison terms are important for social stability. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
Some people who have been in prison become good citizens later, and it is often argued that these are the best people to talk to teenagers about the dangers of committing a crime. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people think technology development decreases crime, while others believe it actually encourages crime. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
One good way to promote world peace is through international sporting events. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Popular events like the 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?
Ensuring that children have regular physical exercise should be the responsibility of parents, and therefore students should not waste valuable school time having sports lessons as part of the curriculum. To what extent do you agree?
Children today are too dependent on computers and electronic entertainment. It would be better for them to be outside playing sports and taking part in more traditional pastimes than spending all day indoors. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Fewer young people play sports these days. Why is this? What can be done to encourage more young people to do sports?
In recent years, there has been a rise in the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports. What are the consequences of doping for athletes? What measures should be taken to combat this issue?
Some are of the opinion that people are naturally born as good leaders, while others feel that leadership skills can be learned. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Intelligence is the most important quality for a leader. Do you agree or disagree?
It's generally believed that some people are born with certain talents, for instance for music and sport, and others are not. However, it's sometimes claimed that any child can be taught to become a good sports person or musician. Discuss both ideas by giving your opinion.
Some think that having ambition is a good quality. Is it important to be ambitious? Is it a positive or negative characteristic?
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?
Being a celebrity, such as a famous film star or sports personality, brings problems as well as benefits. Do you think that being a celebrity brings more benefits or more problems?
Nowadays, an ordinary person can become popular through the Internet and TV media. Is it a positive or a negative development?
Many people believe that media coverage of celebrities is having a negative effect on children. To what extent do you agree?
Nowadays, celebrities are more famous for their glamour and wealth than for their achievements, and this sets a bad example to young people. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Due to television and the internet, it is easier today for a large number of people to become famous. Is this a positive or negative development?
Many people think that the government should spend money to explore outer space, while others think that it is a waste of public money. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Some think scientists should be allowed to send messages into space to communicate with other life forms, while others believe this is too dangerous. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
The first man to walk on the moon claimed it was a step forward for mankind. However, it has made little difference in most people's lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
The increasing frequency of satellite launches and space debris is becoming a threat to the Earth. What are the main causes? What measures can be taken to address this?
Some people say that more money should be invested in science than in other subjects. Do you agree or disagree?
The most important aim of science ought to be to improve people's lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some believe that new science related to criminal forensics should be used to look at old cases. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some believe that pets should stay at home at all times, while others feel they should be allowed outside the home. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
It is a natural process that animal species such as dinosaurs become extinct. There is no reason for people to prevent this from happening. Do you agree or disagree?