Discover why asking simple questions can be a strategic advantage and learn the language of effective business communication.
Main objectives of this material
- Develop advanced vocabulary for arguing and conceding in conversation, including idiomatic expressions such as common courtesy, a bit of a stretch, a grey area, split hairs, play devil's advocate, give someone the benefit of the doubt and not a hill I'd die on.
- Strengthen speaking and reading skills by analysing a divided online comment thread, identifying each commenter's position, and debating six everyday disputes such as wearing headphones in company, reclining a plane seat and leaving a group chat in silence.
- Learn and practise five argument moves - concede, challenge, draw the line, hedge and let it go - using structures such as I take your point, but..., Where do you draw the line? and It's fine as long as... to disagree politely and define exactly what is acceptable.
What students are going to cover
In this lesson, students will explore why the internet is divided over everyday etiquette, starting with a viral post asking whether it is rude to wear headphones when you are with someone. They will read the comment thread, identify each commenter's position, and build advanced vocabulary for disagreement, including take your point, dig your heels in and come across as. They will then learn an argument toolkit of five conversational moves and upgrade blunt reactions into polite, precise English. In the main speaking stage, students predict the split on six disputes, argue an allocated side, agree where to draw the line and vote. By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to concede a point gracefully, challenge an argument politely, and say where they draw the line.
🔒 Part of Complete · C1
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