Skills in action What’s a formal discussion?

1 What’s a formal discussion? Use the picture and the texts and explain to your partner what happens in a formal discussion.

Students choose a statement Example: “How can volunteers help kids in need?”

Speakers prepare arguments for or against it. The chairperson introduces the speakers.

At the end the audience votes for or against the statement.

2 Planning a formal discussion Plan a discussion. The skills box can help you.

GRoUnd RULES FoR dISCUSSIon 1. We will listen while others are talking. 2. We will cooperate: try to get along with each other. 3. We will listen and think about everyone’s ideas. 4. We can ask each other questions to help us to understand everyone’s ideas.

I think … streets are dangerous because … . The facts show us that … . … is/are not the only problem in … . Kids in … are frightened because … .

1. Agree on a statement, for example: “How can volunteers help kids in need?” Use the phrases to help you. How about … ? I think … is a good statement. I’ve got a better idea. Let’s say, … . Who’s for/against … ?

2. Choose a chairperson. What should he/she do and when? Write a list. The phrases can help. Welcome the group: Good morning/afternoon/ … . Introduce the statement: Our statement is … . Introduce the speakers: … and … will speak for/against it. Ask people to vote: Who is for/against … ?

3. Collect arguments. Use the collage on the opposite page.

Write sentences. You can use some of the phrases in the box.

4. Choose some speakers.

They must write down their arguments. They can speak for or against the statement. I agree/don’t agree with … . In my opinion … . You say that … . I think that’s a prejudice. That isn’t true for … .