Who is
this book for?
This book
is for English teachers and students. For teachers, it is a resource of
materials and taboo topics for classroom discussion and writing exercises. For
students, it provides topics to write about and discuss, as well as providing debating
techniques and useful phrases. It is suitable for upper-intermediate level and
above.
How does
the book work?
The book is
designed to provide a basis for English lessons or homework. It provides a
context for the subject, examples of debating techniques, the language of
agreement and disagreement, ice-breaking activities, 40 controversial subjects
with for and against statements, as well as exercises covering comprehension,
vocabulary and grammar and lesson ideas for teachers. It is suitable for class
work or self-study.
Here's a sample chapter
Taboo 4: Body piercing
Ice-breaker
Which parts
of the body to people typically pierce? Why do you think some parts seem more
socially acceptable than others? Do you know anybody with a lot of piercings?
How do people react to them or how do you react when you see somebody with a
lot of piercings?
Position
1
Body
piercing is one of the worst modern fashions, it turns my stomach. Earrings are
fine but when somebody has them through their nose, mouth, cheeks and tongue,
it’s just totally gross. It’s scary for children and old people and most
‘normal’ people don’t like it either.
Position
2
Forms of
body adornment have always been used and can be found in ancient societies and
tribes throughout the world so it’s nothing new. People should have the right
to decorate their bodies as they choose and if other people don’t like it’s
tough. It’s their problem for being so narrow-minded.
Vocabulary
to pierce -
to make a hole through with a sharp instrument
to turn
your stomach -to make you feel sick
gross -
here: disgusting, revolting
adornment -
decoration, usually with colour
ancient -
belonging to historical times
tough -
here: unfortunate, bad luck
narrow-minded
- intolerant, not open to unconventional ideas
Language
Test Questions
1) Which
phrase uses the present perfect tense to describe something that started in the
past and still in effect now?
2) Which modal
verb is used to state a belief?
3) Which word
is used judgementally as an unqualified statement of fact?
4) Which
statements uses a zero conditional to describe direct cause and effect?
5) Which phrase
uses the passive voice?
6) Why
might a debater choose to use passive voice?
Keep a look out for updates on the release of the book!