Agreeing and disagreeing
Once a discussion is opened, there are manyways to gain access to it. A common one is to express agreement or disagreement. By building on what someone else has said, you can agree or disagree with him / her.
Useful language for agreeing:
I totally agree with you.
I couldn't agree more.
Exactly!
Yes, you are right in ...
That is a good point.
Useful language for disagreeing:
I’m afraid I don’t agree.
I see what you mean, but ...
But don’t you think that ...?
Yes, but on the other hand ...
But all the evidence suggests that ...
Task1. Work with your partner. Use the useful language listed above and discuss whether you agree or disagree with the following statements. Be sure to open a discussion nicely and express agreement and disagreement properly. Asample dialogue about the first statement has been given.
A Sample Dialogue
Statement: Wind power generation plays an importance role in China's energy structure.
A: I've been following China's energy policies, and it seems to me that wind power generation is playing an increasingly important role in their energy structure.
B: I couldn't agree more. The push for clean energy is evident, and wind power is at the forefront of this transition.
A: Exactly! The government's investment in wind energy infrastructure has been substantial, and it's paying off with a significant reduction in carbon emissions.
B: Yes, you are right in saying that. Thatis a good point about the environmental benefits. But I see what you mean, but there are also concerns about the reliability of wind power due to its intermittent nature.
A: I totally agree with you on the issue of reliability. However, advancements in wind turbine technology and energy storage solutions are helping to mitigate these concerns.
B: But don’t you think that the cost of energy storage is still prohibitive for large-scale implementation?
A: Yes, but on the other hand, as the technology becomes more widespread, economies of scale will likely drive downcosts. Plus, the long-term environmental and health benefits could outweigh the initial costs.
B: I’m afraid I don’t agree completely. While the long-term benefits are clear, the initial investment and the current cost of energy storage are still significant barriers for many regions in China.
A: But all the evidence suggests that renewable energy, including wind power, is becoming more cost-competitive. The cost of wind turbines has dropped significantly over the past few years.
B: That's true, but we must also consider the geographical and logistical challenges of wind power generation in China, especially in densely populated areas.
A: I see what you mean, but with careful planning and strategic placement of wind farms, these challenges can be managed. The potential for wind power to contribute to China's energy independence and reduce reliance on fossil fuels is immense.
B: I agree with your optimism. It's clear that wind power generation has an important role to play in China's energy structure. With continued innovation and policy support, it could very well become a cornerstone of their energy strategy.
Statements:
1. Hydroelectric power is a fantasticsource of renewable energy.
2. The rise of electric vehicles willsignificantly change our energy consumption patterns.
3. Bioenergy is a sustainable alternativeto fossil fuels.
4. Geothermal energy is a consistent andenvironmentally friendly source of power.