Casa ESL · B1 Intermediate · Unit 7 of 20 · Step 1
Agreeing, Disagreeing & Discourse Markers
Name
Date
Vocabulary
perspective
nounA particular way of thinking about something.
"From my perspective, the plan needs more detail."
furthermore
adverbIn addition; used to add a point to what has already been said.
"The project is over budget. Furthermore, it is behind schedule."
controversial
adjectiveCausing strong disagreement or discussion.
"The new law is highly controversial."
oppose
verbTo disagree with or resist something.
"Many residents oppose the construction of the motorway."
persuade
verbTo cause someone to believe something or to do something by giving good reasons.
"She persuaded him to change his mind."
debate
nounA formal discussion on a topic where people express different opinions.
"The debate about education funding continues."
valid
adjectiveHaving a sound basis in logic or fact; reasonable.
"That's a valid point — I hadn't considered it."
nevertheless
adverbDespite what has just been said; however.
"The weather was terrible. Nevertheless, we enjoyed the trip."
Grammar Focus
Discourse markers for expressing opinions
Use 'however' and 'nevertheless' to introduce a contrasting point (placed at the start of a sentence, followed by a comma). Use 'although' / 'even though' at the beginning or middle of a sentence to show contrast within one sentence. Use 'on the other hand' to present an alternative viewpoint. Use 'furthermore' / 'in addition' to add supporting points. Use phrases like 'In my opinion', 'I believe that', 'As far as I'm concerned' to introduce personal views.
I believe that public transport should be free. However, it would be very expensive for governments.
Although the film received bad reviews, I thought it was excellent.
On the other hand, some people argue that competition is healthy.
In my opinion, learning a second language should be compulsory in all schools.
Exercises
Exercise 1
Complete each sentence with the correct discourse marker: however, although, furthermore, on the other hand, nevertheless.
1. , the results were disappointing, the team learned a lot from the experience.
2. The restaurant was expensive. , the food was worth every penny.
3. Working from home saves time. , it can be quite isolating.
4. The hotel was small and basic. , it was clean and in a great location.
5. Exercise improves physical health. , it also boosts mental wellbeing.
Exercise 2
Choose the best phrase to complete each sentence.
1. ___, everyone should have access to free healthcare.
2. She studied very hard for the exam. ___, she did not pass.
3. The plan sounds good. ___, there are still a few problems to solve.
Reading
Should University Be Free?
The question of whether university education should be free is widely debated. In my opinion, everyone deserves access to higher education regardless of their financial situation. Free university would allow more people to develop skills and contribute to society. Furthermore, countries with educated populations tend to have stronger economies. However, critics argue that free education would be extremely costly for taxpayers. On the other hand, some point out that graduates typically earn more and pay more taxes over their lifetime, which offsets the initial cost. Although there is no easy solution, I believe that governments should at least reduce tuition fees significantly. Nevertheless, any change would require careful planning and long-term investment.
1. What is the writer's main opinion about university education?
2. What argument do critics make against free education?
Speaking
Discuss these questions with a partner or your teacher.
Writing
Write a short opinion paragraph (8–10 sentences) about one of these topics: remote work, social media, or learning languages. Use at least four discourse markers from this unit.
Example: In my opinion, social media has both positive and negative effects on society. It allows people to stay connected with friends and family around the world. Furthermore, it gives a voice to people who might not otherwise be heard. However, social media can also spread misinformation very quickly. Although platforms have introduced fact-checking tools, they are not always effective. On the other hand, some argue that people should take personal responsibility for what they believe.
Answer Key — For Teacher Use
Exercise 1
1. Although · 2. However · 3. On the other hand · 4. Nevertheless · 5. Furthermore
Exercise 2
1. In my opinion · 2. Nevertheless · 3. However
Reading Comprehension
1. The writer believes everyone deserves access to higher education regardless of their financial situation. · 2. Critics argue that free education would be extremely costly for taxpayers.