Reading: Reading for Detail
B1 Lesson 3: Understanding Clearly Stated Arguments or Opinions
Listen to the reading passage audio here.
Before You Read 🧠
Key Vocabulary (Click 🔊)
Let's learn these important words for understanding arguments.
How to Find an Argument
To find an argument, first find the author's main opinion (the Claim). Then, look for the "signal words" that introduce the Reasons. Good readers can tell the difference between the main idea and the sentences that support it.
Signal Words for OPINIONS
- I think...
- I believe...
- From my perspective...
- It seems clear that...
Signal Words for REASONS
- Because...
- The main reason is...
- First, ... / Secondly, ...
- For example...
Reading Passage
Read the article below. Pay attention to the highlighted signal words.
The Case for Flexible Work Hours
In today's fast-paced world, the traditional 9-to-5 workday is becoming outdated. I believe that all companies should offer flexible work hours to their employees. Offering this flexibility is not just a nice "perk"; it is a smart business decision.
The main reason is that it improves employee well-being. When employees can adjust their schedules, they can manage personal tasks, like going to the bank or picking up their children from school, without stress. This leads to happier, healthier, and more loyal employees.
Secondly, flexible hours can actually increase productivity. For example, some people are "morning people" who are most focused at 7 AM, while others do their best work at 10 PM. Allowing employees to work when they are most alert means the company gets their best work. It also reduces time wasted in rush-hour traffic, so employees arrive at their desk (or home office) ready to focus.
In conclusion, it seems clear that flexible work hours are a win-win. Companies get more productive workers, and workers get better work-life balance.
Practice What You Learned 🎯
Quiz 1: Find the Main Claim
What is the author's main opinion (claim) in the passage you just read?
Quiz 2: Find the Supporting Reasons
Now, match the author's claims (left) with the reasons (right) given in the text.
Claim 1: Flexible hours improve well-being.
Claim 2: Flexible hours increase productivity.
Key Vocabulary Reference (Click 🔊)
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Flexible
Able to be easily changed or adapted.
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Productivity
The rate at which work is done.
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Well-being
The state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.
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Outdated
Old-fashioned; no longer modern.
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Perk
An extra benefit or advantage you get from a job.
Your Reading Mission ⭐
Find the Argument
- Find a short opinion article in English (like from a news website or blog).
- Read the article and try to find the main claim (what is their biggest opinion?).
- Find at least two reasons or examples they use to support that claim.
- Practice explaining the author's argument to a friend in your own words.