1 More employers try to employ equal numbers of men and women for all types of jobs. To what extent do you think the advantages of this trend outweigh its disadvantages?
2 People living in big cities face many problems today. What are these problems? Should the government encourage people to live in small towns and rural areas?
3 Some people believe that the fittest and strongest individuals and teams always succeed in sports. Others think that success in sports depends on mental attitudes. Discuss both these views and give your opinions.
4 Teachers used to be the main source of information for children. Some people argue that today teachers are not as important as in the past because of the increasing variety of information sources. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
5 Students from poor families or from rural areas often find it difficult to access university education. Why is that? How can this problem be solved?
6 Once children start primary school, teachers have more influence than parents do on their intellectual and social development. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
7 Some teachers think that it is more effective for students to study in groups than to study alone. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
8 Many people think cheap air travel should be encouraged because it gives ordinary people the freedom to travel further. However, others think that this leads to environmental problems. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
9 The growth in international tourism has negative effects on the languages and cultures of developing countries. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
10 Modern technology has led to many changes in the food industry, such as the increasing popularity of factory farming and the creation of new types of food. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these changes.
11 Some people think that the government should establish free libraries and museums in each town. Others, however, believe that it is a waste of government funding because people can have access to much more information on their computers and mobile phones. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
12 Some people think that the increasing international co-operation can bring benefits to world environmental protection while others think that it can create advantages for international business. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
13 Research suggests that many criminals who were sent to prison commit crimes again when they are set free. Why is that? What can be done to solve this problem?
