Speaking: Interactive Communication B1 - Lesson 3: Asking for & Giving Opinions with Reasons 🤔💬👍
Objective: To learn and practice common English phrases for asking for someone's opinion, giving your own opinion, and providing reasons to support your views.
- Learn phrases for asking for opinions.
- Learn phrases for expressing your own opinion.
- Understand the importance of giving reasons and learn phrases to introduce them.
- Practice asking for, giving opinions, and providing reasons in various contexts.
Sharing opinions is a fundamental part of engaging conversations. It's not just about stating what you think, but also about understanding others' perspectives and explaining the 'why' behind your own thoughts. This lesson will help you do that more effectively and confidently in English.
Phrases for Asking for Opinions
When you want to know what someone else thinks about a topic:
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What do you think about [topic]? (e.g., ...this new cafe?)
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What's your opinion on [topic]? (e.g., ...the latest technology trends?)
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How do you feel about [topic]? (e.g., ...working from home?)
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What are your thoughts on [topic]?
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Do you have any views on [topic]?
Phrases for Giving Your Opinion
When you want to share what you think:
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I think (that)...
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In my opinion,...
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I believe (that)...
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I feel (that)...
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It seems to me that...
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From my point of view,...
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As far as I'm concerned,...
Phrases for Giving Reasons
After giving your opinion, it's good to explain *why* you think that. This makes your opinion stronger and clearer.
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... because [reason]. (e.g., I like it because it's easy to use.)
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The main reason is (that)...
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This is due to [reason/noun phrase]. (e.g., ...due to its high quality.)
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One reason is... Another reason is...
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... since [reason]. (Similar to 'because')
Practice Dialogues
Read these dialogues. Notice how opinions are asked for, given, and supported with reasons. Practice with a partner.
Dialogue 1: Discussing a new restaurant
Vannak: What do you think about that new Khmer restaurant that opened near the riverside?
Sreyneath: In my opinion, it's pretty good. I went there last night.
Vannak: Oh, really? What did you like about it?
Sreyneath: Well, I feel that the Fish Amok was excellent because it was very flavorful and authentic. Also, the service was quite fast. What are your thoughts?
Vannak: I haven't been yet, but it sounds like I should try it, since you recommend it!
Dialogue 2: Talking about online shopping
Dara: How do you feel about buying clothes online?
Sophea: To be honest, I'm not a big fan. From my point of view, it's risky because you can't try things on to see if they fit properly.
Dara: That's a fair point. But I think it's very convenient, especially since you can shop anytime and there's often a wider selection.
Sophea: I understand that. The main reason I avoid it is that I've had bad experiences with sizing in the past.
Activity 1: Share Your Opinion
Read the topic. Give your opinion using one of the phrases, and provide at least one reason. Click "Reveal Sample Response" for an example.
1. Topic: The importance of daily exercise.
Your opinion & reason:
2. Topic: The best way to learn a new language.
Your opinion & reason:
3. Topic: Using smartphones in classrooms.
Your opinion & reason:
Activity 2: Role-Play Discussion
Work with a partner. Choose one of the topics below. Take turns asking for and giving opinions, making sure to provide reasons for your views. Try to use a variety of phrases from the lesson.
- Topic 1: The benefits and drawbacks of tourism in Cambodia.
- Topic 2: The best type of holiday (e.g., relaxing on a beach, exploring a city, adventure travel).
- Topic 3: Whether traditional markets or modern supermarkets are better for grocery shopping.
- Be clear and concise: State your opinion clearly. Your reasons should directly support your opinion.
- Use transition words for reasons: Words like "because," "since," "as," "due to" clearly signal you are giving a reason.
- Provide specific examples if possible: This can make your reasons more convincing. (e.g., "I think it's good because, for example, I learned...")
- Listen to others' opinions respectfully: Even if you are focused on giving your opinion, remember to listen when others share theirs.
- It's okay to have a simple opinion: You don't always need complex reasons, especially in casual conversation.
Summary: This lesson focused on how to effectively ask for opinions (e.g., "What do you think about...?"), give your own opinion (e.g., "In my opinion,..."), and importantly, support your opinions with reasons (e.g., "...because..."). Mastering these skills will make your English discussions more engaging, clear, and persuasive.