B2 Upper-Intermediate
Debate and argue a point
Although remote work offers flexibility, I would argue that in-person collaboration still matters in some contexts.Introduction
Read the statements and notice how the speaker builds an argument.
I can see the advantages of remote work; however, I do not think it suits every team.
One reason is that some tasks require immediate collaboration and quick decisions.
That said, a hybrid model may be a more realistic solution than a complete return to the office.
Strong B2 arguments are usually balanced. They recognize complexity instead of presenting only one side.
Choose the correct answer.
1. What does the speaker think about remote work?
2. What reason does the speaker give?
3. What final position does the speaker suggest?
Presentation
Laura and Eric are debating whether universities should make attendance mandatory.
Laura: Do you think university attendance should always be mandatory?
Eric: Personally, I would argue that it depends on the course and the learning objectives.
Laura: I understand that view, but I still think regular attendance improves discipline and engagement.
Eric: That may be true in some cases. On the other hand, adult learners often need more flexibility because of work or family responsibilities.
Laura: Fair point. Even so, if attendance were completely optional, some students might fall behind very quickly.
Eric: Perhaps a better approach would be to require attendance in practical classes but allow more freedom in lecture-based courses.
Meaning
At B2 level, argument language often includes position, reason, counterargument, and qualified conclusion.
No nível B2, a linguagem de argumentação geralmente inclui posição, razão, contra-argumento e conclusão qualificada.
- Position: I would argue that...
- Reason: One reason is that...
- Counterargument: On the other hand... / That may be true, but...
- Conclusion: A more balanced approach would be...
Pronunciation + Form
Persuasive answers often sound stronger when they avoid extreme claims and use cautious framing such as in some cases, to a certain extent, or a better approach would be.
Practice
Complete the argument phrases with the best missing word or expression.
Choose the best response.
1. Which sentence sounds most balanced?
2. Which phrase introduces a counterargument?
3. Which sentence gives a qualified conclusion?
4. Which answer sounds most suitable for a debate?
Production
Debate one of the following topics with a partner. Give a position, one supporting argument, one counterargument, and a final conclusion.
- university attendance requirements
- remote work versus office work
- the role of smartphones in education
- whether cities should limit private car use