Some people think that universities should provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed in the workplace. Others think that the true function of a university should be to give access to knowledge for its own sake, regardless of whether the course is useful to an employer.

What, in your opinion, should be the main function of a university? (Cambridge Book 7)

 
Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programs (for example working on charity, improving the neighborhood or teaching sport to younger people).
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (Cambridge Book 9)
 
 
Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school. 
Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? (Cambridge Book 9)
 
 
Some people think that all university students should study whatever they like. Others believe that they only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those related to science and technology. 
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 10)
 
 
Some people say History is one of the most important school subjects. Other people think that, in today’s world, subjects like Science and Technology are more important than History. 
Discuss both these views and give your opinion. (Cambridge Book 13)
 
 
Some university students want to learn about other subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others believe it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for a qualification. 
Discuss both views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 18)
 
 
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. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 
 

 

Discipline is an ever-increasing problem in modern schools. Some people think that discipline should be the responsibility of teachers, while others think that this is the role of parents. 

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
 

 

The education system is failing to adequately prepare students for the modern workforce. 

What are the main causes of this problem? 

What solutions can you suggest to improve the education system and better equip students with the skills needed for employment?

 
 
Some people think that schools should focus more on teaching practical life skills like budgeting, cooking and first aid rather than academic subjects. 
To what extent do you agree with this view? 
What are the potential advantages and disadvantages of such an approach to education?
 
 
Universities should accept equal number of male and female students in every subjects. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (Cambridge Book 5) 
 
 
In some countries young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting University studies. 
Discuss the advantage and disadvantage for young people who decide to do this. (Cambridge Book 5)
 

Some children spend hours every day on their smartphones.
Why is this the case?
Do you think this is a positive or a negative development? (Cambridge Book 17)

 

 

Many people believe that the widespread use of social media has negatively impacted society by reducing face-to-face interactions. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 

 

 

Some argue that technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence and automation, are creating more job opportunities, while others believe they are leading to job losses. 

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

 

 

The rapid advancement of technology has led to increased screen time among children, which is causing various health issues. 

What are the main causes of this problem? 

What solutions can be implemented to reduce screen time and its negative effects on children’s health?

 

 

Some people think that technology has made education more accessible and effective, while others argue that it has led to a decline in traditional teaching methods. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 

What are the disadvantages of technology in education?

 

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? (Cambridge Book 8)



Some people say that the best way to improve public health is by increasing the number of sports facilities. Others, however, say that this would have little effect on public health and other measures are required. 

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 9)



Many manufactured food and drink products contain high levels of sugar, which causes many health problems. Sugary products should be made more expensive to encourage people to consume less sugar. 
Do you agree or disagree? (Cambridge Book 16)


Nowadays, a growing number of people with health problems are trying alternative medicines and treatments instead of visiting their usual doctor. 
Do you think this is a positive or a negative development? (Cambridge Book 17)


To what extent do you agree or disagree that mental health should be given equal priority to physical health in public healthcare systems?


Some people believe that the government should impose higher taxes on unhealthy foods to combat obesity, while others argue that this is an unfair burden on consumers. 
Discuss both views and give your opinion.


The number of people suffering from obesity is increasing significantly in many countries. 
What are the primary causes of this issue? 
What measures can be taken to address and reduce obesity rates?


Some people think that healthcare should be provided for free to all citizens, while others believe that individuals should be responsible for their own health costs. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? Discuss the disadvantages of both perspectives.

Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental problems.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 14)

 

 

Some people believe that individual actions have little impact on global environmental problems and that governments and corporations should be solely responsible for addressing these issues. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 

 

 

Many people argue that economic progress should be the top priority for governments, even if it comes at the expense of environmental protection. Others believe that environmental sustainability is equally important for a country’s long-term development. 

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

 

 

Deforestation is a major contributor to climate change and biodiversity loss. 

What are the primary causes of deforestation? 

What solutions can be implemented to reduce deforestation and promote sustainable forest management?

 

 

Some people think that the best way to protect the environment is to use local resources like food and building materials rather than importing them from other places. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree? 

What are the advantages of this approach?

Many governments think that economic progress is their most important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 11)

 

 

In many countries, people are now living longer than ever before. Some people say an ageing population creates problems for governments. Other people think there are benefits if society has more elderly people. 

To what extent do the advantages of having an ageing population outweigh the disadvantages? (Cambridge Book 18)

 
 
Some people argue that the government should prioritize spending on healthcare over other areas such as education and infrastructure. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
 

 

Many countries face challenges related to inadequate funding for public services. 

What are the main causes of this problem? 

What solutions can be implemented to ensure that government spending effectively meets public needs?

 

 

Some people believe that government spending on the arts is a waste of resources, while others argue that it is essential for cultural development. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 

Discuss the advantages of government funding in the arts.

 

Today, the high sales of popular consumer goods reflect the power of advertising and not the real needs of the society in which they are sold.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (Cambridge Book 6)

 

 

Some people say that advertising is extremely successful at persuading us to buy things. Others think that advertising is so common that we no longer pay attention to it. 

Discuss both views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 15)

 

 

In their advertising, businesses nowadays usually emphasize that their products are new in some way. 

Why is this? 

Do you think it is a positive or negative development? (Cambridge Book 16)

 

 

Some people believe that advertising encourages consumers to buy products they do not need, while others argue that it informs them about new products that can improve their lives. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

 

 

Some companies sponsor sports events as a way to advertise their products. While some people think this is a positive development, others believe it has negative effects. 

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

 
 
The prevalence of advertisements in everyday life has led to consumerism, where people buy more than they need. 
What are the main causes of this issue? 
What solutions can be implemented to reduce unnecessary consumerism driven by advertising?
 

 

Many people think that advertisements aimed at children should be banned, while others believe that children should learn to make their own choices. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 

Discuss the disadvantages of advertising targeted at children.

 

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? (Cambridge Book 10)

 

 

In many countries nowadays, consumers can go to a supermarket and buy food produced all over the world. 

Do you think this is a positive or negative development? (Cambridge Book 19)

 

 

Some people argue that companies should prioritize employee well-being and work-life balance over profits. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 

 
 
Many believe that remote work has increased productivity, while others argue that it has negatively impacted workplace culture and collaboration. 
Discuss both perspectives and give your own opinion.
 

 

The gig economy, characterized by short-term contracts and freelance work, is becoming more prevalent. 

What are the main causes of this trend? 

What are the potential problems associated with the gig economy?

 

Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 7)



Many people believe that the death penalty is the best way to control and reduce serious crime. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?



Some argue that the government should focus on stricter law enforcement to reduce crime rates, while others believe that investing in social programs to address the root causes of crime is more effective. 

Discuss both views and give your opinion.



The increasing rate of juvenile crime has become a significant concern in many societies. 
What are the main causes of this trend? 
What solutions can be implemented to address and reduce juvenile crime?

Some people believe that women should be treated as equal to men when applying for jobs in traditionally male-dominated fields like the police or military. Others think that women are less suitable for these types of jobs. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 

 

 

There is a debate about whether schools should have single-gender classes or be co-educational. 

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

 
 
Gender stereotypes and discrimination are often ingrained in children’s lives from a young age. 
What are the main causes of this problem? 
What solutions can be implemented to promote gender equality and reduce discrimination from an early age?
 
 
Some analysts argue that it is impossible to eliminate the underrepresentation of women in certain university subjects like science and technology. 
To what extent do you agree with this view? 
Discuss the disadvantages of efforts to achieve gender balance in higher education.
 

Some people believe that family is more important than friends, while others argue that friendships can be just as significant.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

 

 

In many cultures, it is common for parents to arrange marriages for their children, while in others, individuals choose their own partners. 

Discuss both systems and give your opinion on which approach is more beneficial.

 

 

The traditional family structure is changing, with more people choosing to live alone or with friends instead of with family. 

What are the main causes of this trend? 

What problems can arise from this change, and what solutions can be implemented to strengthen family bonds?

 

 

More and more couples are deciding to remain child-free, leading to debates about the implications of this choice. Some people argue that this decision is selfish, while others believe it is a responsible choice due to concerns about overpopulation and personal freedom. 

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

 

Some people believe that organic food is healthier than conventionally grown food, while others argue that there is no significant difference.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

 

 

There is a debate about whether fast food should be banned in schools. Some argue that it promotes unhealthy eating habits, while others believe that students should have the freedom to choose what they eat. 

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

 
 
The prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide, leading to various health problems. 
What are the main causes of obesity? 
What solutions can be implemented to address this issue and promote healthier lifestyles?
 
 
Some people think that the government should impose taxes on unhealthy foods and subsidize healthy options to encourage people to eat better. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 
Discuss the advantages of such an approach to improving public health.
 

Some people argue that globalization has led to a decline in cultural diversity as local traditions are being replaced by a homogenized global culture.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

 

 

There is a debate about whether globalization has been more beneficial or detrimental to the environment. Some argue that it has led to increased pollution and unsustainable practices, while others believe that it has also enabled the spread of green technologies and environmental awareness. 

Discuss both views and give your opinion

 

 

The increasing wealth gap between developed and developing countries is a major issue exacerbated by globalization. 

What are the main causes of this problem? 

What solutions can be implemented to promote more equitable economic development globally?

 

In some countries, owning a home rather than renting one is very important for people.
Why might this be the case? Do you think this is a positive or a negative situation? (Cambridge Book 15)



In some countries, more and more are becoming interested in finding out about the history of the house or building they live in. 

What are the reasons for this? 

How can people research this? (Cambridge Book 16)



In many countries around the world, rural people are moving to cities, so the population in the countryside is decreasing. 
Do you think this is a positive or negative development? (Cambridge Book 18)


Some people believe that urban sprawl is a necessary consequence of economic growth, while others argue that it leads to environmental degradation and social inequality. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 


There is a debate about whether governments should invest more in public housing to ensure affordable living options for all citizens, or if they should focus on encouraging private sector development. 
Discuss both views and give your opinion.


Many cities are facing a housing crisis due to rapid urbanization and population growth. 
What are the main causes of this housing crisis? 
What solutions can be implemented to address the issue and ensure adequate housing for all residents?

Every year several language die out. Some people think this is not important because life will be easier if there are fewer languages.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (Cambridge Book 9)

 

 

Some people say that the only reason for learning a foreign language is in order to travel to or work in a foreign country. Others say that these are not the only reasons why someone should learn a foreign language. 

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 11)

 
 
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? (Cambridge Book 13)
 
 
Some people say that music is a good way of bringing people of different cultures and ages together. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (Cambridge Book 14)
 
 
Some people believe that it is important to have a single language as an international official language. Others think that it will make it difficult to identify countries and cause a loss of culture. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 
 
 
When people move to another country, some of them decide to follow the customs of the new country. Others prefer to keep their own customs. 
Which one do you prefer?
 
 
Modern technology is creating a single world culture. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 
 
 
Some people think that students must travel to another country in order to learn its language and customs.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? 
 

Some people believe that once a person commits a crime, they will always be a criminal.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

 

 

In some countries, there is a debate about whether police officers should carry firearms. Some argue that arming police is necessary for their protection and public safety, while others believe it increases the risk of violence.

 Discuss both views and give your opinion

 

 

The number of young offenders is rising in many societies. 

What are the main causes of this trend? 

What solutions can be implemented to address the issue of juvenile crime?

 

Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology.
In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships people make?
Is this a positive or negative development? (Cambridge Book 8)

 

 

Some people believe that social media has had a negative impact on face-to-face communication, especially among young people. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 

 

 

There is a debate about whether traditional media like newspapers and television will become obsolete due to the rise of online media. Some argue that online media is more convenient and accessible, while others believe that traditional media still has value. 

Discuss both views and give your opinion

 

 

The spread of misinformation and fake news on social media platforms is a growing concern. 

What are the main causes of this problem? 

What solutions can be implemented to combat the spread of misinformation online?

 

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 own opinion. (Cambridge Book 12)

 

 

The most important aim of science should be to improve people’s lives. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (Cambridge Book 18)

 
 
Some people believe that scientific research should focus on solving the problems of the present rather than exploring potential future issues. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 
 
 
There is a debate about whether governments should invest more in scientific research or in other areas such as education and healthcare. Some argue that scientific advancements can lead to significant societal benefits, while others believe that immediate needs should take precedence. 
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
 
 
The number of students pursuing degrees in science and technology fields is declining in many countries. 
What are the main causes of this trend? 
What solutions can be implemented to encourage more students to choose science-related subjects?
 

Increasing the price of petrol is the best way to solve growing traffic and pollution problems.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
What other measures do you think might be effective? (Cambridge Book 8)

 

 

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? (Cambridge Book 11)

 

 

At the present time, the population of some countries includes a relatively large number of young adults, compared with the number of older people. 

Do the advantages of this situation outweigh the disadvantages? (Cambridge Book 12)

 
 
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? (Cambridge Book 13)
 
 
Some people believe that the government should prioritize addressing social issues like poverty and inequality over economic growth. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 
 
 
There is a debate about whether social welfare programs are effective in reducing poverty and inequality, or if they create dependency and discourage people from working. 
Discuss both views and give your opinion
 
 
Homelessness is a growing problem in many urban areas. 
What are the main causes of homelessness? 
What solutions can be implemented to address this issue and provide adequate housing for all citizens?
 

Successful sports professional can earn a great deal more money than people in other important professions. Some people think this is fully justified while think this is unfair.
Discuss both view and give your opinion. (Cambridge Book 6)

 

 

Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. 

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 6)

 

 

Some people believe that dangerous sports should be banned, while others think people should be free to choose whether to participate in them. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 

 
 
Some people think that sports teach children how to compete, while others believe that children learn teamwork through sports. 
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
 
 
The increasing popularity of sedentary leisure activities like video games and social media has led to a decline in physical activity among young people. 
What are the main causes of this trend? 
What solutions can be implemented to encourage more physical activity and participation in sports?
 

Some people believe that visitors to other countries should follow local customs and behavior. Others disagree and think that the host country should welcome cultural differences.
Discuss both these views and give your opinion. (Cambridge Book 6)

 

 

Some people believe that tourism is a major source of economic growth for many countries, while others argue that it can lead to negative impacts on local cultures and environments. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 

 

 

There is a debate about whether governments should promote eco-tourism to protect the environment or focus on developing traditional tourist attractions to boost the economy. 

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

 

 

The increasing number of tourists visiting popular destinations has led to significant environmental damage and strain on local resources. 

What are the main causes of this problem?

What solutions can be implemented to mitigate the negative impacts of tourism?

 

Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Other believe that children who are taught to co-operate rather that compete become more useful adults.
Discuss both views and give your own. (Cambridge Book 5)

 

 

 

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 behavior to children? (Cambridge Book 10)

 

 

It is generally believed that some people are born with certain talents, for instance for sport or music, and others are not. However, it is sometimes claimed that any child can be taught to become a good sports person or musician. 

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 7)

 

 

Some people think that parents should teach children how to be good members of society. Others, however, believe that school is the best place to learn this. 

Discuss both views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 8)

 
 
Some people believe that allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters(such as food, clothes, and entertainment) is likely to result in a society of individuals who only think about their own wishes. Other people believe that it is important for children to make decisions about matters that affect them. 
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 12).
 

 

In some cultures, children are often told that they can achieve anything if they try hard enough. 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving children this message? (Cambridge Book 15)

 
 
Some people believe that children should be given strict rules to follow in order to develop good behavior, while others argue that children should be allowed more freedom to make their own choices. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
 
 
Some parents think that childcare centers provide the best services for preschool-aged children, while others believe that family members, such as grandparents, make better caregivers. 
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
 

 

The increasing amount of screen time among children is a growing concern for parents and educators. 

What are the main causes of this trend? 

What solutions can be implemented to encourage children to engage in more physical activities and less screen time?

Research indicates that the characteristics we are born with have much more influence on our personality and development than any experiences we may have in our life.
Which do you consider to be the major influence? (Cambridge Book 5)

 

 

Some people believe that personality traits are primarily determined by genetics, while others argue that environmental factors play a more significant role. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 

 

 

There is a debate about whether a person’s personality is more important than their qualifications and skills when it comes to employment. Some argue that personality traits are essential for teamwork and collaboration, while others believe that skills and experience should take precedence. 

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

 
 
Many young people today struggle with low self-esteem and confidence, which can affect their personality development. 
What are the main causes of this issue? 
What solutions can be implemented to help young people build their self-esteem and develop a positive personality?
 

As most people spend a major part of their adult life at work, job satisfaction is an important element of individual well-being.
What factors contribute to job satisfaction?
How realistic is the expectation of job satisfaction for all workers? (Cambridge Book 7)

 

 

Nowadays, many people choose to be self-employed, rather than to work for a company or organization. 

Why might this be the case? 

What could be the disadvantages of being self-employed? (Cambridge Book 14) 

 

 

Some people believe that professionals, such as doctors and engineers, should be required to work in the country where they did their training. Others believe they should be free to work in another country if they wish. 

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 17)

 

 

the working week should be shorter and workers have a longer weekend. 

Do you agree or disagree? (Cambridge Book 19)

 

 

Some people believe that job satisfaction is more important than a high salary. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 

 

 

There is a debate about whether teenagers should work part-time jobs while studying. Some argue that it teaches responsibility and discipline, while others believe it distracts them from their education. 

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

 

 

Unemployment is a significant issue in many countries. 

What are the main causes of unemployment? 

What solutions can be implemented to reduce unemployment rates?

 

 

Some people think that having a stable job is more important than pursuing a career they are passionate about. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 

Discuss the disadvantages of the second approach to career choices.

Governments should spend more money on railways rather than roads.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (Cambridge Book 11)

 

 

In a number of countries, some people think it is necessary to spend large sums of money constructing 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 own opinion. (Cambridge Book 12)

 
 
In the future, all cars, buses, and trucks will be driverless. The only people travelling inside these vehicles will be passengers. 
Do you think the advantages of driverless vehicles outweigh the disadvantages? (Cambridge Book 16)
 

 

Some people believe that governments should invest more in public transportation systems rather than building new roads for private vehicles. 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 

 

 

Some people argue that the best way to reduce traffic congestion in cities is to encourage people to use public transport, while others believe that improving road infrastructure is the key solution. 

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

 

 

The increasing number of vehicles on the roads has led to severe traffic congestion in many urban areas. 

What are the main causes of this problem? 

What solutions can be implemented to alleviate traffic congestion?

Many museums charge for the entries while others are free.
Do you think the advantages of charging people for admission to the museum outweighs disadvantages? (Cambridge Book 10)

 

 

Some people believe that nowadays we have too many choices? 

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement? (Cambridge Book 13)

 

 

Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations. 

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 14)

 

 

In the future, nobody will buy printed books or newspapers because they will be able to read everything they want online without paying.

To what extent, do you agree or disagree with this statement? (Cambridge Book 15)

 
 
It is important for people to take risks, both in their professional lives and their personal lives. 
Do you think the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages? (Cambridge Book 17)
 
 
some people think that competition at work, at school and in daily life is a good thing. Others believe that we should try to cooperate more, rather than competing against each other. 
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (Cambridge Book 19)
 
 
It is important for everyone, including young people, to save money for their future. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (Cambridge Book 19)