C1 Friday 8th, 22nd November

LISTENING 

 IN_C1_20_21_EXTRAORDINARIA

How to enjoy better conversations

8th 22nd November

How to save money at the supermarket

💬  Do you agree/half-agree or disagree?

1. Being an only child is better than having brothers and sisters.
2. You should always defend family members against the police, even if they have done something wrong.
3. Mothers and daughters have a more difficult relationship than mothers and sons.
4. If a couple doesn´t get on, it´s better for their children for them to divorce than to stay together and completely argue. 
5. If we want to save the planet, no couples should be allowed to have more than two children.
6. Your "family" are the people who care about you, not necessarily your blood relatives.
7. Your parents brought you up, so it´s your responsibility to take care of them when they´re old.

WRITING: AN OPINION COMPOSITION. (175 WORDS)

Useful Connectors for Opinion Compositions

• To introduce points: Firstly, To begin with, For one thing, One reason is that, On the other hand
• To add points: Furthermore, In addition, Likewise, Moreover
• To contrast: However, Nonetheless, In contrast, Although, Despite this
• To emphasize: It is essential to note that, Indeed, Without a doubt, Clearly
• To conclude: In conclusion, To sum up, Ultimately, All things considered.

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  Structure of an Opinion Composition

  1. Introduction

     • Purpose: Introduce the topic and clearly state your opinion.
     • Tip: Provide some context or background to give the reader an idea of why the topic is relevant.
     • Connector Examples: To begin with, In recent years, Many people believe that, It is often argued that…

  2. Body Paragraphs

     • Purpose: Present supporting arguments for your opinion. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea or argument.
     • Structure:
       • Topic Sentence: Introduce the main point of the paragraph.
       • Explanation: Explain why this point supports your opinion.
       • Example/Evidence: Provide an example, statistic, or real-life case to illustrate the point.
       • Mini-conclusion: Summarize how this argument supports your opinion.
     • Connector Examples:
       • Adding points: Additionally, Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, Not only … but also …
       • Contrasting points: On the other hand, In contrast, Nevertheless, Despite this, Although
       • Explaining reasons or results: This is because, Consequently, As a result, Therefore, For this reason

  3. Counterarguments and Refutation

     • Purpose: Acknowledge opposing views and refute them.
     • Tip: Briefly mention a possible counterargument, then explain why it is less convincing or valid than your own argument.
     • Connector Examples:
       • Presenting the opposing view: Some may argue that, It is often suggested that, Critics claim that
       • Refuting: However, Nonetheless, Even so, In reality, This argument fails to consider, In fact

  4. Conclusion

     • Purpose: Summarize your main arguments and restate your opinion strongly.
     • Tip: Don’t introduce new arguments here. Instead, reaffirm your stance and leave a strong final impression.
     • Connector Examples: In conclusion, To sum up, Taking everything into account, All things considered, Ultimately

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Tips for Writing a Strong Opinion Composition

• State your position clearly: Make sure your opinion is clear from the beginning.
• Use formal language: Avoid contractions and colloquial expressions.
• Balance the argument: Present both sides if possible and address counterarguments.
• Include examples and evidence: Specific examples help strengthen your arguments.
• End with a strong conclusion: Summarize your points and reinforce your opinion