Critical Reading
Skill: Analyzing Arguments & Transitions.
Topic: "Is Remote Work Better for Society?"
Debate Toolkit
ProductivityNoun
ផលិតភាព/ˌproʊ.dʌkˈtɪv.ə.t̬i/
The rate at which goods or work is produced.
RebuttalNoun
ការបដិសេធ / ការតតាំង/rɪˈbʌt.̬əl/
A statement that says something is not true.
ConsensusNoun
ការឯកភាពគ្នា/kənˈsen.səs/
A generally accepted opinion or decision among a group.
IsolationNoun
ការនៅឯកោ/ˌaɪ.səlˈeɪ.ʃən/
The condition of being alone or separated from others.
Transcript Analysis
Mission: Read the three rounds of argument below. Hover over the highlighted words to see their function.
Round 1: Opening Statements
PRO
Remote work is the future. It allows employees to work from anywhere, which boosts happiness. Furthermore, it eliminates the daily commute, saving hours of wasted time every week.
CON
I understand the appeal of flexibility. However, remote work destroys company culture. When we are separated by screens, we lose the "human touch" necessary for true teamwork.
Round 2: The Rebuttal
PRO
Admittedly, face-to-face interaction is valuable. But digital tools like Zoom bridge that gap. Consequently, teams can collaborate instantly without being in the same physical room.
CON
Digital tools are useful, yes. Conversely, they also cause "Zoom Fatigue." Employees burn out faster when they stare at screens all day without real social breaks.
Round 3: Closing
PRO
In conclusion, while challenges exist, the freedom and productivity of remote work far outweigh the downsides of the traditional office.
1. Which word does the PRO side use to add an extra point?
2. What is the CON side's main argument in Round 1?
3. "Admittedly" is used when a speaker: