GCAS Strategies 12 Discussion: Agreeing

I agree

Image Credit

Katya Austin via Unsplash

In this lesson, we'll practice impressive ways to agree with an opinion.

Introduction

Agreeing is useful in any discussion. It is especially useful in GCAS Part 1.

Start by agreeing with this question.

Do you think that there is good communication between employees in your company?

This lesson is aimed at Part 1 of the GCAS, but you can use the strategies in many other places too.

Your student should agree. Note how: strongly, or tentatively?

If they seem to clam up, share your own opinions about TEF, or another company you've worked at, or say something like this:

I think there's good communication at my company. Even though we have employees all over the world, we're able to communicate through chat messages, monthly staff meetings, and emails. It definitely helps keep us all connected!

Warm Up

What are some phrases you use to agree?

Simply gather language your student can already use.

If they need a prompt, try this:

I think learning a new language can be difficult. What do you think?

Here are some phrases to express agreement:

I agree.
Definitely.
I couldn’t agree more.
I see your point.
I see what you're getting at.
That's true...

Language

Read the following phrases. Choose one phrase you understand but cannot use confidently.

A. Strong

I (completely/absolutely/fully/truly) agree.
Definitely.
That's a (fantastic/great/terrific) point.
There's no doubt about it.

Choose one and practice it.

B. Neutral

That’s one way of looking at it.
I have to side with you on this one.
I’d go along with that.
That’s a good point.

Choose one and practice it.

C. Partial

I agree, up to a point.
I partly agree.
To some extent, yes.

Choose one and practice it.

D. Weak

Perhaps.
Maybe.
I suppose so.
I guess so.

Choose one and practice it.

A. Strong agreement

Go through the list with the student. Pick one—ideally, a phrase that they understand but tend not to use.

Use strong intonation. If they can't say it strongly on the first try, then do shadowing practice.

Practice:

Do you think research and development is important for tech companies?
Do you think your government is taking appropriate action on climate change?

B. Neutral agreement

Go through the list with the student. Pick one—ideally, a phrase that they understand but tend not to use.

Practice:

Do you think lockdowns are helpful to stop a pandemic?
Do you think technology will make the world a better place?

C. Partial agreement

Go through the list with the student. Pick one—ideally, a phrase that they understand but tend not to use.

Practice:

If AI fulfills human abilities, they will take our jobs. Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not?
Do you think it's okay to ban some people from participating in international sporting events?