【English Communication III】Debate and Discussion: Sharpen Your Ability to Express Your Opinion!
Hello everyone! In this chapter, we’ll be learning about "Debate" and "Discussion," which are essential for sharing your thoughts and exchanging ideas in English.
You might feel like "debating in English sounds difficult," but don't worry! In reality, once you know a few "patterns" and "useful phrases," the hurdle drops significantly.
Let’s have fun learning these lifelong skills that will be useful in university and your future career!
1. What is the difference between a "Debate" and a "Discussion"?
First, let’s organize the differences between the two. Their goals are slightly different.
Debate
This is a "match of opinions" based on rules. You are divided into "Affirmative" and "Negative" sides regarding a specific theme, and the goal is to persuade a third party (a judge or the audience).
Example: Are school uniforms necessary? (Affirmative vs. Negative)
Discussion
This is a "conversation" where you work together to find an answer. The goal is for all participants to contribute their ideas to reach a better solution or find common ground.
Example: What should we do to make the next school festival exciting? (Brainstorming ideas together)
【Point】
It's easy to think of a debate as a "sport with a winner and loser," and a discussion as "a group project to complete a puzzle."
2. The Winning Pattern: The "PREP Method" for Better Persuasion
To convey your opinions logically, use the PREP method, which is widely used in English-speaking countries. Just by fitting your thoughts into this structure, anyone can give a logical explanation.
① Point: Start by stating your conclusion clearly!
"I think that..." / "In my opinion, ..."
② Reason: Provide the reason why.
"Because..." / "The reason is that..."
③ Example: Back it up with specific data or personal experiences.
"For example, ..." / "For instance, ..."
④ Point: Emphasize your conclusion once more at the end.
"Therefore, I believe that..."
【Fun Fact】
In Japanese, we often use the "Ki-sho-ten-ketsu" structure, which places the conclusion at the end. However, in English, "the conclusion first" is the golden rule. Just by being conscious of this, your English will become much more "communicative"!
3. Magic Phrases for Debates!
In a debate, you need the skill to assert your own opinion while still respecting the other person's perspective.
Rebutting (Countering) an Opponent's Opinion
Instead of saying "No!" right away, it's good manners to acknowledge them first.
"I understand your point, but..."
"That may be true, however..."
Adding Reasons
"Moreover, ..."
"In addition to that, ..."
Presenting Evidence
"According to this news article, ..."
"Research shows that..."
【Common Mistake】
Avoid saying "You are wrong." In debates, the rule is to discuss the "Idea," not to attack the person.
4. Tips for Smooth Discussions
In a discussion, your role as a "listener" is just as important as being a speaker.
Asking for Clarification
"Could you tell me more about that?"
"What do you mean by...?"
Agreeing/Empathizing
"I agree with you."
"That's a great idea!"
Summarizing the Conversation
"So, you are saying that...?"
"To sum up our discussion, ..."
【Point】
If you are afraid of the silence, it’s perfectly fine to say "Let me think for a second" to buy yourself some time. Don't rush!
5. Practice Steps: Start Here!
If you're thinking, "I can't debate in English right away!", try practicing with these steps:
1. Choose a familiar theme: "Bread or Rice for breakfast?", "Which is easier to keep as a pet, a dog or a cat?", etc.
2. Note down the PREP in Japanese: First, organize your thoughts.
3. Translate to English using the words you know: You don't need difficult vocabulary! Try to explain it in simple words.
4. Say it out loud: Practicing in front of a mirror with gestures will boost your confidence.
Summary: Key Points of this Chapter
・Debate is for "persuasion," while discussion is for "collaboration"!
・When stating an opinion, use the "PREP method" (Point → Reason → Example → Point)!
・Don't forget phrases that respect the other person (e.g., "I understand, but...").
・It doesn't have to be perfect English. The most important thing is your "willingness to communicate"!
You might get stuck for words at first, but everyone goes through that. "Practice makes perfect!" By using these phrases little by little, your world will definitely expand. I'm rooting for you!