Discussion Skills Three：Responding

In the last of our three discussion skills classes, we are going to look at ways to respond to others opinions.

If you agree with an opinion, you can use the phrases below:

• Yes, I agree with you.
• Yes, you are right.
• I could not agree more.
• I am completely with you on that.

If you agree partly or have a similar opinion, you can use the next phrases:

• I see what you mean, but for me, it is more like...
• That is good, but also...
• I see where you are coming from, but... 

To politely disagree the next phrases are good:

• I am sorry, I do not see it that way. For me...
• I can understand your point of view, but for me...
• I understand what you are saying, but...

If you would like to strongly disagree, you can use the next phrases:

• With all due respect, I would say...
• I am sorry, I do not think that is correct, for me...
• I am sorry, that is completely wrong!

In class, we will talk about the different nuances of the above phrases and practise them. From week four to week ten of the term, we will be having real discussions in class, so please think of three topics you would like to discuss. I will collect everyone's ideas at the end of next class.

If you have not sent last weeks homework yet, please send it to:
rowan63japan@gmail.com