Reading: Reading for Detail: B1 Lesson 3: Understanding Clearly Stated Arguments or Opinions
CEFR Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Target Reading Sub-skill: Reading for Detail
Specific Focus: Understanding Clearly Stated Arguments or Opinions
What You Will Learn
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Understand the difference between a fact and an opinion.
- Identify the main opinion or argument in a simple text (like a review or a short opinion piece).
- Recognize words and phrases that often signal opinions (e.g., I think, I believe, best, worst, good, bad).
Hello Cambodian Learners!
When you read, it's important to understand not just facts, but also what people think or believe. This is called an opinion or an argument. For example, someone might write an article arguing why Battambang is the best city in Cambodia for art, or give their opinion on a new movie. Recognizing these opinions and arguments helps you understand the writer's point of view.
Facts, Opinions, and Arguments
A fact is something that can be proven true or false. Example: "Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia."
An opinion is what someone thinks or feels. It cannot be proven true or false for everyone. Example: "Phnom Penh is the most beautiful city in the world." (Someone else might disagree!)
An argument is a main point or claim that a writer tries to make, often supported by reasons or opinions.
Words that often signal opinions: I think, I believe, in my opinion, good, bad, best, worst, beautiful, delicious, should.
Example: Click the text to hear it.
My Favorite Cafe in Battambang
What is the writer's main opinion or argument in this text?
Answer: "The Riverside Cafe" is the best cafe in Battambang.
The writer gives reasons (delicious coffee, friendly staff, nice view) to support this opinion.
Practice Time!
Activity 1: Fact or Opinion?
Read each sentence. Decide if it is a Fact or an Opinion. Click the correct button.
Activity 2: What is the Main Argument/Opinion?
Read each short text. Then choose the sentence that best states the writer's main argument or opinion.
Quick Quiz!
Great Job!
Understanding arguments and opinions is an important reading skill. It helps you see the writer's perspective and think critically about what you read!