How to ask for an opinion [part 1 of 2]

In this English conversation class, you’ll learn how to ask for an opinion in English.

Remember, for lots of great English class materials and a FREE gift, visit our homepage:  www.learnhotenglish.com

Knowing how to ask for an opinion is a useful skill. It can help other people participate in your conversation, and allow you to find out what they think of things. In this lesson, we’ll teach you how to ask for an opinion. Then, you’ll listen to a conversation so you can hear the target language in action.

Asking for an opinion – yes-no questions

• Do you believe in freedom of speech?
• Are you for or against hunting?
• Do you think people under the age of 18 should be allowed to drive?
• Do you agree with the idea that 16-year-olds should be able to vote?
• Would you consider legalising the use of marijuana?

Open questions

• What do you think of the new law?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of getting married?
• What do you think of the use of animals in circuses?
• How often should employees be tested for drugs?
• What are the pros and cons of nuclear energy?

Asking about alternatives

• Do you think it’s best to go by car or train?
• Would you rather live by the beach or in the mountains?
• Would you prefer to be treated in a state-run hospital or a private one?
• Would you rather your children went to a mixed or single-sex school?
• What’s best: a flat in the centre or a house in the country?

Leading questions

• Obviously, you’d agree that smoking should be banned, wouldn’t you?
• You don’t think they’re good, do you?
• Surely, you think this is the best one, don’t you?
• You’d obviously agree with me when I say that we need to leave now, wouldn’t you?
• Without a doubt, climate change is a reality, isn’t it

You’re going to listen to a conversation.

Jessica is asking Ben for his opinions on a few things. How would you answer the following questions.

Think and make notes.

What’s your opinion?

1. Would you consider investing in overseas property?
2. Are you for or against fox hunting?
3. What are the pros and cons of getting married?
4. Would you prefer to be treated in a state-run or a private hospital?

Now, listen to the conversation. What does the speaker say in response to these questions?

Here are the answers.

1. Would you consider investing in overseas property?

Ben says he doesn’t have any money to invest.

2. Are you for or against fox hunting?

He says he doesn’t have any strong feelings about it.

3. What are the pros and cons of getting married?

He says he isn’t planning to get married.

4. Would you prefer to be treated in a state-run or a private hospital?

He thinks state-run hospitals are as good as privates ones.

Now listen and read the script at the same time.

This class is similar to many that you can find in our fantastic eBook, Practise English conversation – check it out here!