7. Opinions, agreement and disagreement

Conversation Workbook, level B1, lesson 7. Opinions, agreement and disagreement.

Exercise 3. Listen to the conversation. A four-day school week?.

Have you heard? Some schools in the U.S. have a four-day week. What do you think?

I can see the advantages. Students would have more time to rest and do their hobbies.

True, but on the other hand, the school days would be much longer.

That's a fair point. I hadn't thought of that. How much longer?

In some schools, almost an hour every day. And parents who work would need someone to look after younger kids on Fridays.

I see what you mean, but I'm not sure I agree. Older students could use Fridays for part-time jobs or projects.

Maybe. The main reason I'm against it is that teachers would have less time for each subject.

OK, maybe we could meet halfway. What about a shorter Friday instead of no Friday at all?

That sounds like a good compromise.

So, we agree that a shorter Friday would be better than a four-day week.

Exercise 4. Your turn. Listen, stop the recording and answer. Then listen to a possible answer.

A.

Do you think school uniforms are a good idea?

I can see the advantages, but I think students should be able to express themselves.

B.

Everyone should learn to cook at school.

That's a fair point. I hadn't thought of that.

C.

Tourists are ruining Prague.

I see what you mean, but I'm not sure I agree. Tourism brings a lot of jobs.

D.

Why do you think cycling is better than driving?

The main reason is that it's healthier. For example, I cycle to school every day.

E.

You want a long trip, I want a short one.

Maybe we could meet halfway – what about three days?

F.

OK, so what have we decided?

So, we agree that we'll go for three days.

This is the end of the recording.