Work:

1. Some people think that youngsters should get involved in unpaid work, while
others oppose as it may affect their career. Discuss both the sides and give your
opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include and relevant examples.

2. Some people say it is important to keep your home and your workplace tidy,
with everything organized and in the correct place. What is your opinion about
this?
3. Nowadays people are spending more time in workplace and staying away from
home for work. Discuss its advantages and disadvantages with your own
experience.

4. It has been noted that many people who had a big impact on the world gave
themselves completely to their work and did not bother with the idea of “work-
life balance”. To what extent should people try to have a good work-life
balance? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from
your own knowledge or experience.

5. In some countries, a few people earn extremely high salaries. Some people
think that this is good for a country, while others believe that the government
should control salaries and limit the amount people can earn. Discuss both sides
and express your opinion.
6. An increasing number of professionals, such as doctors and teachers, are
leaving their own poorer countries to work in developed countries. What
problems do this cause? What solutions can you suggest to deal with this
situation?
7. Some think the best way to motivate and encourage people to work hard is to
pay them based on how much they produce and sell. Do you agree or disagree?
Include relevant examples from your own experience.
8. Most people in the world need to work in order to lead a decent life or even just
to survive. Many workers are motivated by money: if the job pays well, they are
willing to do it. However, some people are not concerned with the size of their
 pay packet: they simply enjoy their job and choose to do it whether they earn a
high salary or not. What is more important – salary or job satisfaction? Discuss
and give reasons for your answer.
9. Some think the best way to motivate and encourage people to work hard is to
pay them based on how much they produce and sell. Do you agree or disagree?
Include relevant examples from your own experience.

10.Most people in the world need to work in order to lead a decent life or even just
to survive. Many workers are motivated by money: if the job pays well, they are
willing to do it. However, some people are not concerned with the size of their
pay packet: they simply enjoy their job and choose to do it whether they earn a
high salary or not. What is more important – salary or job satisfaction? Discuss
and give reasons for your answer.
11.New household appliances have resulted in more free time for women and have
enabled them to both work and run a home with dependent children. What are
the advantages for a family when the mother works? Do you think the
disadvantages outweigh the advantages?
12.It is a good thing for people in senior management positions to get a higher
salary than other workers in the same company. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
13.Some people think that having a set retirement age for everybody, regardless of
occupation, is unfair. They believe that certain workers deserve to retire and
receive a pension at an earlier age. Do you agree or disagree? Which types of
workers do you think should benefit from early retirement?
14.Many working people get little or no exercise either during the working day or
in their free time, and have health problems as a result.
15.Some working parents think that childcare centres provide the best care for
children who are still too young to go to school. Other working parents think
that family members such as grandparents will be better care providers for their
children. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
16.When choosing a job, the salary is the most important consideration. To what
extent do you agree or disagree?
17.When choosing a job, the salary is the most important consideration. To what
extent do you agree or disagree?
18.Some people work for the same organization all their working life. Others think
that it is better to work for different organizations.
19.Company’s top-level authorities should get their employees in decision-making.
20.Now we see a lot of comfort and convenience in the life of children. Their
lifestyle has undergone a huge change in that their habits, activities and even
social behavior are not what they used to be earlier. Which factors are
responsible for this kind of change, and is it desirable or not?
21.Younger employees have more skills, knowledge and more motivated than
older employees. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Support your
argument with your own experience.
22.Many high-level positions in companies are filled by men even though the
workforce in many developed countries is more than 50 per cent female.
Companies should be required to allocate a certain percentage of these positions
to women. To what extent do you agree?
23.Today, people can work and live anywhere they want, because of the
improvement of communication technology and transport. Do advantages of
this development outweigh the disadvantages?
24.Men and women employed in full-time jobs should share the responsibilities of
household chores. Do you agree or disagree? Share relevant personal
experiences.
25.Some people say that people should have a different amount of holidays
according to their job. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this
opinion?
26.Most people in the world need to work in order to lead a decent life or even just
to survive. Many workers are motivated by money: if the job pays well, they are
willing to do it. However, some people are not concerned with the size of their
pay packet: they simply enjoy their job and choose to do it whether they earn a
high salary or not. What is more important – salary or job satisfaction? Discuss
and give reasons for your answer.
27.Some employers want to be able to contact their staff at all times, even on
holidays. Does this development have more disadvantages than advantages?
28.Some people think that having a set retirement age (e.g. 65 years) for
everybody, regardless of occupation is unfair. They believe that certain workers
deserve to retire and receive a pension at an early age.
29.Some people think that having a set retirement (e.g.65 years) for everybody,
regardless of occupation, is unfair. They believe that certain workers deserve to
retire and receive a pension at an earlier age.
30.Nowadays, many families have both parents working. Some working parents
believe that other family members can take care of their children, while others
think childcare centers are better. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
31.Some people believe that eventually all jobs will be done by artificially
intelligent robots. What is your opinion?
32.Most employers do job interviews before offering a position to a person. Do
you think this is the best way to do it, or are there better alternatives? What is
the best method of choosing employees in your opinion?
33.Most high-level positions in companies are filled by men even though the
workforce in many developed countries is more than 50 percent female.
Companies should be required to allocate a certain percent of these positions to
women.
34.Most high-level positions in companies are filled by men even though the
workforce in many developed countries is more than 50 percent female.
Companies should be required to allocate a certain percent of these positions to
women.
35.

Games
36.Popular events like the football world Cup and other international sporting
occasions are essential in easing international tensions and releasing patriotic
emotions in the safe way. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
37.Many people try to find a balance between their work and other aspects of their
life. However, few actually achieve this. What solutions can you suggest?
38.Extreme sports like skiing, water rafting etc are dangerous. Should these be
banned?
39.Computer and online gaming should be banned for students at school as they
have no educational value.

Agriculture
40.In spite of the advances made in agriculture, many people around the world still
go hungry. Why is this the case? What can be done about this problem?
41.Far too little has been done to prevent animals and plants from dying out. Why
do people do so little about it? How can the problem be solved.
42.

Country
43.Most people pay taxes to contribute to the development of their country,
however, some think they have other responsibilities rather than paying taxes.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
44.Some people think that developed countries have a higher responsibility to
combat climate change than developing countries. Others believe that all
countries should have the same responsibilities towards protecting the
environment. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

45.Most people pay taxes to contribute to the development of their country,

however, some think they have other responsibilities rather than paying taxes.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

46.Most Countries allow 18 year olds to start driving a car. Some say it is good to
allow it at this age, while others think that the age to start driving should be at
least 25. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
47.Some people think that to learn about other countries, they need to travel. Some
say that it is not necessary to travel; we can have information through TV and
internet. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
48.‘Some people think that changing people’s attitudes to other countries, and
culture is an important factor in reducing world poverty. Others, however, feel
that the most important method is trade.’
49.Developed countries should take more refugees from poorer countries. Do you
agree or disagree?
50.International tourism is becoming a major industry. Some people think it causes
more tension than the anticipated understanding between different countries. To
what extent do you agree or disagree?
51.Living in a country where you have to speak a foreign language can cause
serious social problems, as well as practical problems. To what extent do you
agree or disagree with this statement?
52.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?
53.As global trade increases between different countries, many daily necessities
are produced in other countries. Such goods are usually transported a long
distance. Do the benefits of this trend outweigh its drawbacks?
54.Some people believe that in the near future there will be no borders between
countries, while others feel that national borders will always remain. Discuss
both sides and give your own opinion.
55.As global trade increases between different countries, many daily necessities
are produced in other countries. Such goods are usually transported a long
distance. Do the benefits of this trend outweigh its drawbacks?
56.Many young people nowadays are imitating celebrities in sports and movies. In
your opinion, is this good or bad? Support your point of view with reasons and
examples from your own experience.
57.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?
58.‘Some people think that changing people’s attitudes to other countries, and
culture is an important factor in reducing world poverty. Others, however, feel
that the most important method is trade.’
59.In some countries an increasing number of people are suffering from health
problems as a result of eating too much fast food. It is therefore necessary for
governments to impose a higher tax on this kind of food. To what extent do you
agree or disagree?
60.Many people believe that international tourism is a bad thing for their own
countries. What are the reasons? What are the solutions to change negative
attitudes?
61.

Daily life
62.Some people find following a strict routine allows them to feel more in control.
Others however think that constant changes to the routine make life more
interesting and less predictable. What extent do you agree or disagree?
63.Many people think that important things in life are mostly free or can’t be
bought. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your opinion and
examples from your own experience.
64.Nowadays celebrities are more known for their glamour and wealth than for
their achievement, and this sets a bad example to young people.
65.Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding
changes. Others however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss
both views and give your own opinion.
66.Some people consider price as the most important thing to consider when
buying a product such as a cell phone and services like medical treatment. Do
you agree or disagree?
67.Many people think it is important to spend a lot of money on a large wedding
celebration. Others disagree. Discuss both these views and give your opinion
and give reason for your answer and include any relevant examples from your
knowledge and experience.
68.Today, more and more people choose to live by themselves. What are the
causes of this? Is this a positive or negative development?
69.A person’s worth nowadays seems to be judged according to social status and
material possessions. Old-fashioned values, such as honor, kindness and trust,
no longer seem important. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this
opinion? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from
your own knowledge or experience.
70.Today, more and more people choose to live by themselves. What are the
causes of this? Is this a positive or negative development?
71.Lifestyle and culture of different countries are becoming similar. Is it a positive
development or negative?
72.In the past, shopping was a routine domestic task. Many people nowadays
regard it as a hobby. To what extent do you think this is a positive trend? You
should give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience.
73.In the past, shopping was a routine domestic task. Many people nowadays
regard it as a hobby. To what extent do you think this is a positive trend? You
should give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience.
74.Nowadays people live in the society where consumer goods are relatively
cheaper to buy. Do you think its advantages outweigh its disadvantages?
75.People’s shopping habits depend more on the age group they belong to than any
other factors. Do you agree or disagree?
76.Some people think that cultural traditions will be destroyed when they are used
as money-making machines aimed at tourists. Others believe it is the only way
to save such traditions in the world today. Discuss both sides and give your own
opinion.
77.Many people think that important things in life are mostly free or can’t be
bought. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your opinion and
examples from your own experience.
78.

Children
79.Some people believe that children are given too much free time. They feel that
this time should be used to do more school work. How do you think children
should spend their free time?
80.Some people think that children should learn to paint or draw at school. Others
believe it is just a waste of time. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
81.Some people say that parents should encourage their children to take part in
organized group activities in their free time. Others say that it is important for
children to learn how to keep themselves occupied on their own.
82.It is often said that children learn best by observing the behavior of adults and
copying it. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
83.Some people believe that children are given too much free time. They feel that
this time should be used to do more school work. How do you think children
should spend their free time?
84.Smacking children is the best form of discipline. To what extent do you agree
or disagree?
85.People say that a child’s success is dependent on the way parents bring them up.
To what extent do you agree or disagree.
86.Some people think that children would benefit if they attend nursery school
before primary school while some people think that children should stay all day
with their families. Discuss both the views and give your opinion.
87.One of the prime times for advertising on TV is when children get back from
school. Some people think that advertisements aimed at children should not be
allowed. What is your opinion?
88.Some people say that parents have the most significant influence in a child’s
development. However, others say that things like television or friends have the
most important influence on them. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
89.Some people believe that children’s leisure activities must be educational;
otherwise they are a complete waste of time. Do you agree or disagree? Give
reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your
experience.
90.Some governments say how many children a family can have in their country.
They may control the number of children someone has through taxes. It is
sometimes necessary and right for a government to control the population in
this way. Do you agree or disagree?
91.It is important for children to learn the difference between right and wrong at an
early age. Punishment is necessary to help them learn this distinction. To what
extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? What sort of punishment
should parents and teachers be allowed to use to teach good behaviour to
children?
92.Children have more and more tests and exams at school, sometimes starting
from the age of five or six right up until the age of 18. What are the advantages
and disadvantages of making children do exams?
93.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 woman now work and are
not at home to care for their children. To what extent do you agree or disagree
with this opinion?
94.Some people believe that children should do what their parents tell them to do;
others think children must learn to think for themselves. Discuss both views and
give your own opinion.
95.Parents should be held legally responsible for their children’s acts. What is your
opinion? Support it with personal examples.
96.Many childhood diseases can now be prevented through the use of vaccines.
Should parents be made by law to immunize their children against common
 diseases or should individuals have the right to choose not to immunize their
children?
97.An increasing number of children are overweight which could result in many
problems when they grow older both in terms of their health and health care
costs. Why do you think so many children are overweight? What could be done
to solve this problem?
98.It is important for children to learn the difference between right and wrong at an
early age. Punishment is necessary to help them learn this distinction.
99.Nowadays it is common for people to get married and have children in their
thirties rather than when they are younger. Do you agree or disagree that this
trend will benefit society?
100. Children are facing more pressures nowadays from academic, social and
commercial perspectives. What are the causes of these pressures and what
measures should be taken to reduce these pressures?
101. Children often misbehave and when they do that many parents smack them
to teach them a ‘lesson’. In my opinion, this behaviour is completely
unacceptable. Smacking traumatises children and may even lead to more
behavioural problems.
102. The relationship between parents and children has undergone a drastic
transformation over the last few decades. Parents are no longer the sole
authority in a family. This change has certainly affected the way children
interact with their parents. In fact, many of them have become disrespectful.
Since they repeat the same behaviour outside of their home, it is having a
negative effect on the society as well. There are several reasons behind this
disturbing trend.
103.

Political

104. Some people think that politicians have the greatest influence on the world,
while others believe that scientists are more influential. Discuss both sides of
view and give your opinion.\
105. Some people think that politicians have the greatest influence on the world,
while others believe that scientists are more influential. Discuss both sides of
view and give your opinion.
106.
 Education
107. Some people believe that educational success depends on good teacher;
others think that it depends on the attitude of the students. Discuss both the
views and give your opinion.
108. Some people believe that studying in a college or university is the best way
for students to prepare for their future career. Others think they should leave
school as soon as possible to develop their career through work experience.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
109. Fewer schools are requiring children to learn and improve their handwriting
skills. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages of this trend?
110. Completing university education is thought by some to be the best way to
get a good job. On the other hand, other people think that getting experience
and developing soft skills is more important. Discuss both sides and give your
opinion.
111. University students often focus on one subject. However some people think
that universities should encourage a range of other subjects. To what extent do
you agree?
112. Some people think that to learn about other countries, they need to travel.
Some say that it is not necessary to travel; we can have information through TV
and internet. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
113. In some schools and universities, girls choose arts subjects (literature), and
boys tend to choose science subjects (physics). Why do you think this is so?
114. Learning to play team sports is an important part of a child’s education. Do
you agree or disagree? Give reason for your answer. And include any relevant
experience from your own knowledge.
115. Some people think that cooking is an important skill for young people to
learn. Others believe that it is better for people to learn how to cook after they
become adults. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
116. Universities should accept equal numbers of male and female students in
every subject. To what extent do you agree?
117. It is said that “Not everything that is learned is contained in books”.
Compare and contrast knowledge gained from experience with knowledge
gained from books. In your opinion, which source is more important? Why?
118. Teachers are more responsible for the social and intellectual development of
students than parents. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
119. Some people believe that children should not be given homework every day,
while others believe that they must get homework every day in order to be
successful at school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
120. Some People prefer online classes, while others think that it is better to be in
a traditional classroom. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
121. The idea 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 continues throughout life.
122. Schools should prepare students for university, rather than for work. How far
do you agree with this statement? Support your point of view with reasons
and/or examples from your own experience or observations.
123. My education is a hindrance to the process of my learning- Explain this
quote by Einstein
124. Learning a new language at an early age is helpful for children. Is it more
positive for their career prospects or does it have some adverse effects? Agree
or disagree
125. E-Books are completely taking over paper-based books. University libraries
should focus on e-books only instead of paper-based books. Discuss the
advantages and disadvantages and give your opinion.
126. Some people think that public libraries are no longer important, while others
disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
127. Some people think that human history has been a journey from ignorance to
knowledge. Others argue that this underestimates the achievements of ancient
cultures and overvalues our achievements. Discuss both these views and give
your own opinion.
128. Life teaches us the lessons and such lessons are the key to success. How far
do you agree with this statement and do you think formal education is important
or people should rely on their life experiences.
129. Study needs time, peace and comfort, whereas employment needs the same
thing. Someone says it is impossible to combine those two because one distracts
one another. Do you think this is realistic in our life today?
130. As a result of globalization, it is impossible to succeed if you cannot speak
one foreign language. Do you think everyone must learn at least one foreign
language?
131. Study needs time, peace and comfort, whereas employment needs the same
thing. Someone says it is impossible to combine those two because one distracts
one another. Do you think this is realistic in our life today?
132. Some people believe that universities are producing more graduates than is
needed, and that less emphasis should be placed on university education. Others
are of a different opinion. Discuss both views and include your own opinion.
133. Some believe that education success is based on good teachers and others
believe that it depends upon student’s attitude. Discuss both views and give
your opinion with relevant example.
134. In some schools and universities, girls choose arts subjects (literature), and
boys tend to choose science subjects (physics). Why do you think this is so?
Should this tendency be changed?
135. Some parents think that childcare centres provide the best services for
children of pre-school age. Other working parents think that family members
such as grandparents will provide better care for their kids. Discuss both views
and give your opinion.
136. Many people believe that formal “pen and paper” examinations are not the
best method of assessing educational achievement.Discuss this view and give
your own opinion.
137. Some people think that the increasing use of computers and mobile phones
nowadays has unwanted effects on young people’s reading and writing skills.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
138. Some people think that schools should reward students who have the best
academic results, while others believe that it is more important to reward
students who show progress. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
139. Studies show that many criminals do not receive enough education. For this
reason, people believe that the best ways to reduce crime is to educate them so
they can find a job after being released. Do you agree or disagree?
140. Scientists agree that people are harming their health by eating too much fat
food. Some people think that the solution to this problem is to make people
 aware of the problems. Others think education will not work. Discuss both
views and give your opinion.
141. Whether someone achieves their goal or not is a question of luck. To what
extent do you agree or disagree?
142. Some believe that school children should not be given homework by their
teachers, whereas others argue that homework plays an important role in the
education of children. Discuss both of these views and give your own opinion.
143. Many museums charge for admission while others are free. Do you think the
advantages of charging people for admission to museums outweigh the
disadvantages? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant
examples from your own knowledge or experience.
144. Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign
language at primary schools rather than secondary school. Do the advantages of
this outweigh the disadvantages?
145. It is becoming increasingly popular to have a year off between finishing
school and joining universities. What are the advantages or disadvantages?
146.

Traveled
147. Some people like to live alone in some countries. What are the reasons? Is it
a positive or negative trend?
148. Restricting air travel is the only way to prevent air pollution. Do you agree?
149. Nowadays, international tourism is the biggest industry in the world.
Unfortunately, international tourism creates tension rather than understanding
between people from different cultures. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
150. Today more people are travelling than ever before. Why is this the case?
What are the benefits of traveling for the traveller?
151. Some people say it is important to keep your home and your workplace tidy,
with everything organised and in the correct place.What is your opinion about
this?
152. Some people prefer to travel by car while others prefer to take the bicycle.
Which of these do you prefer? What are the advantages and disadvantages of
traveling by a car and a bicycle?
153. Restricting air travel is the only way to prevent air pollution. Do you agree?
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task and write at least 250 words.
154. Many museums and historical sites are mainly visited by tourists but not
local people. Why is this the case and what can be done to attract local people
to visit these places?You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write at
least 250 words.
155. Today more and more tourists are visiting places where conditions are
difficult, such as the Sahara desert or the Antarctic? What are the benefits and
disadvantages for tourists who visit such places?
156.

Traffic
157. The only way to reduce the amount of traffic in cities today is by reducing
the need for people to travel from home to work, shopping and education. To
what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include
any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
158. The best way to solve the traffic congestion in city is to provide free public
transport for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
159. International air fares are falling and tourism is growing. What are the
advantages and disadvantages of increasing tourism activity?
160.

Governmental issue
161. Many governments think that economic progress is their most important
goal. Some people, however, think that other sorts of progress are equally
important for a country. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
162. Some people believe that government money should be spent on important
things than arts such as painting and music. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
163. Some people think governments should take measures to improve the health
of its citizens. Others think it must be managed by individuals. Discuss both
sides and give your opinion.
164. Some people think that having a set retirement age (e.g. 65 years) for
everybody, regardless of occupation is unfair. They believe that certain workers
deserve to retire and receive a pension at an early age.
165. Money for postgraduate research is limited. Some people, therefore, think
that financial support from government should be only provided for scientific
research rather than research for less useful subjects. To what extent do you
agree or disagree with the opinion?
166. Nowadays we are producing more and more rubbish. Why do you think this
is happening? What can governments do to help reduce the amount of rubbish
produced?
167. Should Government spend money on art when they have so many other
important issues?
168. A government has a responsibility to its citizens to ensure their safety.
Therefore, some people think that the government should increase spending on
defense but spend less on social benefits. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
169. Cities are now expanding; should the government make a better network for
public transport or should they build more roads to facilitate car ownership? To
what extent do you agree or disagree?
170. 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.
171. Some people think government should focus on reducing environmental
pollution and housing problems to help people prevent illness and disease. To
what extent do you agree or disagree?
172. Governments should spend money on railways rather than roads. To what
extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
173. Some people think governments should take measures to improve the health
of its citizens. Others think it must be managed by individuals. Discuss both
sides and give your opinion.
174. Nowadays we are producing more and more rubbish. Why do you think this
is happening? What can governments do to help reduce the amount of rubbish
produced?
175. Some people think that in order to prevent illness and disease, governments
should try to reduce environmental pollution and housing problems.
176.

Environment
177. Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is recycled.
They say that the only way to increase recycling is for governments to make it a
legal requirement. To what extent do you think laws are needed to make people
recycle more of their waste?
178. Pollution and other environmental damages are caused by a country
developing and becoming richer. This problem cannot be avoided. To what
extent do you agree?
179. Some people think that air travel should be restricted because it can cause
environment pollution. Do you agree or disagree? Give your opinion and
relevant examples. Give reasons for your explanations and use any relevant
examples from your own life.
180. As a result of globalization, it is impossible to succeed if you cannot speak
one foreign language. Do you think everyone must learn at least one foreign
language?
181. Thanks to globalization societies are becoming more and more alike. Some
people fear that globalization will inevitably lead to the total loss of cultural
identity. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give
reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own
knowledge or experience.
182.
 Technology

183. Some people say that now we can see films on our mobile phones or tablets
there is no need to go to the cinema. Others say that to be fully enjoyed, films
need to be seen in a cinema. Discuss both view and give your opinion.
184. Scientists and technology experts seem to be more valued by modern society
than musicians and artists. To what extent do you agree?
185. Buying things on the Internet, such as books, air tickets and groceries, is
becoming more and more popular. Do the advantages of shopping in this way
outweigh the disadvantages? Give reasons for your answer and include any
relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
186. Computers and modems have made it possible for office workers to do much
of their work from home instead of working in offices every day. Working from
home should be encouraged as it is good for workers and employers.
187. Solar energy is becoming more and more popular as a source of household
energy in many countries around the world. Why is this? What are the
advantages and disadvantages of solar energy?
188. Nowadays more tasks at home and work are being performed by robots.
Why do you think it is happening? Is it a negative or positive development?
189. In many countries, very few young people read newspapers or follow the
news on TV. What do you think are the causes of this? What solutions can you
suggest?
190. In many cities the use of video cameras in public places is being increased in
order to reduce crime, but some people believe that these measures restrict our
individual freedom. Do the benefits of increased security outweigh the
drawbacks?
191. Developments in technology are causing environmental problems. Some
think the solution is for people to adjust to a simpler life while others believe
that technology itself can solve these problems. Discuss both views and give
your opinion.
192. Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible
in scientific research, business and the academic world. Others believe that
some information is too important or too valuable to be shared freely. Discuss
both these views and give your opinion.
193. Using a computer every day can have more negative than positive effects on
young children. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and
include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
194. In the past 100 years, there were many inventions such as antibiotics,
airplanes and computer. What do you think is the most important invention of
the past 100 years? Why?
195. Positive and negative effects of technology through mass media
196. Today, people can work and live anywhere they want, because of the
improvement of communication technology and transport. Do advantages of
this development outweigh the disadvantages?
197. Some people say that now that we can see films on our phones or tablets
there is no need to go to the cinema. Others say that to be fully enjoyed, films
need to be seen in a cinema. Discuss both these views and give your own
opinion.
198. Some people think that to learn about other countries, they need to travel.
Some say that it is not necessary to travel; we can have information through TV
and internet. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
199. In many countries, very few young people read newspapers or follow the
news on TV. What do you think are the causes of this? What solutions can you
suggest?
200. Solar energy is becoming more and more popular as a source of household
energy in many countries around the world. Why is this? What are the
advantages and disadvantages of solar energy?
201. Art is considered an essential part of all cultures throughout the world.
However, these days fewer and fewer people appreciate art and turn their focus
to science, technology and business.
202. Information technology enables many people to do their work outside their
workplace. Do the benefits of this mobility outweigh the disadvantages? Give
reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own
knowledge or experience.
203.

Animal
204. Many animals are being hunted to the brink of extinction in order to fulfill
the demand and greed of mankind for decorative purposes as well as for other
reasons, such as traditional medicine. How can this issue be tackled?
205. Keeping animals in captivity is cruel. There is no reason for zoos to exist in
the 21st century.
206.

Transport

207. In a number of countries, some people think it is necessary to spend large

sums of money on constructing new railway lines for very fast trains between
cities. Others believe the money should be spent on improving existing public
transport. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.
208.

Health/food

209. Nowadays there are many medical surveys of treatments to reduce health
problems. Who should conduct them, governments, individuals or private
companies, in your opinion? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant
examples from your experience.
210. 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?
211. Most people prefer ready to eat food rather than homemade food now. Do
you think it has more advantages or more disadvantages.
212. Some people choose to eat no meat or fish. They believe that this is not only
better for their own health but also benefits the world as a whole. Discuss this
view and give your own opinion.
213. Everyone should follow a vegetarian diet because it is not necessary to eat
meat to be healthy. Do you agree or disagree?
214.

others
215. The most effective way to solve the current traffic and pollution problems in
cities is to encourage people to move from the suburbs or countryside into the
city centre. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
216. In some areas of the US, a curfew is imposed, in which teenagers are not
allowed to be out of doors after a particular time at night unless they are
accompanied by an adult.
217. Many people think that important things in life are mostly free or can’t be
bought. Do you agree or disagree?
218. Some people think that physical strength is important for success in sport,
while other people think that mental strength is more important. Discuss both
views and give your own opinion.
219. Nowadays more and more people want to get things done instantly (services,
information, tasks). Why is this? Do you think this is a positive or negative
development?
220. The tendency of human beings to copy one another is shown in the
popularity of fashion clothes and consumer goods. To what extent do you
agree?
221. Some people think that new houses should be built in the same style as the
older houses in the local area. Others disagree and say local authorities should
allow people to build houses in the style of their own choice. Discuss both
views and give your opinion.
222. Some people believe that the problem of illegal drugs can be solved by just
legalising all drugs. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this?
223. Some people think children of different ability levels should be taught
together while others think intelligent children should be taught separately and
given special treatment. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
224. New household appliances have resulted in more free time for women and
have enabled them to both work and run a home with dependent children. What
are the advantages for a family when the mother works? Do you think the
disadvantages outweigh the advantages?
225. Few people devote time to hobbies nowadays. Why you think this is the case
and what effect this has on the individual and society in general.
226. The reason that most individuals are in debt is due to the overuse and
irresponsible use of credit cards. Banks should not issue credit cards unless they
are completely sure of an individual’s ability to pay back their debts.
227. Some people believe that robots are important for humans to develop their
future, while others think that it is a dangerous invention that will impact
society negatively. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
228. Some people argue higher taxes should be collected from industries causing
higher industrial pollution, whereas others argue there are better ways to deal
with it. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
229. Scientists predict that all people will choose to talk the same global language
in the future. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
230. Large businesses have big budgets for marketing and promotion and as a
result, people gravitate towards buying their products. What problem does this
cause? What could be done to encourage people to buy local products?
231. Some people think that there should be strict laws to control the amount of
noise a person makes because of the disturbance it causes to people.
232. In many countries it is common for families to own and run their own
business. Some people think this is the best way to run a business while others
consider this a potential source of problems.
233. In some areas of the US, a curfew is imposed, in which teenagers are not
allowed to be out of doors after a particular time at night unless they are
accompanied by an adult.

234. Some of the methods used in advertising are unethical and unacceptable in
today’s society. To what extent do you agree with this view?

235. 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?

236. Young people have different ideas and attitudes than their parents and
grandparents. What are the differences and what problem it may cause?

237. Some people think that men are naturally more competitive than women. To
what extent do you agree or disagree?

238. Do you think English will remain to be a global language despite

globalization?
239. Media has a big role to play in the spreading of any news and curiosity
building. Which type of news do you feel media should give more focus to,
good or bad?
240. D Is freedom of speech necessary in a free society? Give reasons for your
answer.
241. Does personality describe the person? To what extent do you agree?
242. Some people think that it’s better to choose friends who always have the
same opinions as them. Other people believe that it’s good to have friends who
sometimes disagree with them. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

243. Richness is an important factor in helping people. To what extent do you

agree or disagree?
244. Most people agree that money cannot bring happiness. Why is happiness
difficult to define?

245. Nowadays celebrities are more known for their glamour and wealth than for
their achievement, and this sets a bad example to young people.To what extent
do you agree or disagree?

246. The reason that most individuals are in debt is due to the overuse and
irresponsible use of credit cards. Banks should not issue credit cards unless they
are completely sure of an individual’s ability to pay back their debts.To what
extent do you agree with this?

247. “Although abuse of the system is inevitable, social welfare payments are
essential to protect the rights citizens have to a guaranteed minimum income in
a democratic society “Discuss.

248. There seems to be an increasing number of serious crimes being

committed each year. While some think that the best way is to use the death
penalty as a deterrent, many people believe that other measures will be
needed.Discuss both sides of view.

249. Some people think that the teenage years are the happiest of our lives,
while others believe that adult life brings more happiness. Discuss both these
views and give your own opinion.
250. Some people believe famous people’s support for international aid
organizations draw public attention. Others think celebrities reduce the
importance of the problems. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
251. People have different opinions on how they should spend their money.
While some people believe that we should spend our money to enjoy life, others
argue that we should save it for future. I agree with the latter point of view.
252. In order to reduce crime, some argue that attacking its cause like poverty is
the best solution, while others believe that putting more people in prisons and
having more policemen are more convenient way in tackling crime. Discuss
both sides and give your opinion.

253.