notes and ideas

"I love reading". "I love to read". Which one is correct and why?

Both are grammatically correct, but we use them in different situations because they mean slightly different things.

I LOVE READING:

We say, “I love reading” when we are making a general statement about an activity that we love doing. The gerund (“VERB+ing”) refers to a kind of activity. It is the name of the activity. So, we use this form when we are talking about reading as a type of activity, which is different from other types of activity. Here are some examples of how “reading” is used as the name of a type of activity:

• Reading helps to expand your vocabulary.

• Do they teach reading in your English class?

• People who suffer from dyslexia have difficulty with reading, but not with the other language skills.

So, “I love reading” means that the speaker loves the activity known as “reading”.

I LOVE TO READ:

We use this form when we are taking about the action in a specific situation or about doing the action in a specific way. “To read” is an infinitive, and this form of the verb is not the name of the activity. It is used to mention an action as being done in theory or in principle. So, “I love to read” is not used by itself. It is always followed by the thing that makes the action specific rather than a general activity.

Here are some ways in which we would use “I love to read …”:

• I love to read in bed.

• I love to read when I am on holiday and my mind is free to enjoy what I am reading.

• I love to read books that are uplifting and inspirational.

As you can see, in each of these sentences, there is some information that makes the action of reading specific rather than general (a kind of activity). 

SOLVE YOUR MATH PROBLEM HERE ! 

Your IELTS

IELTS Speaking Part 1: New topics and questions January-May 2024

IELTS Speaking

IELTS Speaking Part 1: New topics and questions January-May 2024

Usually in IELTS Speaking Part 1, the examiner asks questions on 3 topics. This means that you can be asked about any 3 topics from this list.

1 TOPIC = 3-4 QUESTIONS FROM THE EXAMINER

HERE'S GIVEN VARIOUS OPTIONS OF QUESTIONS AND THERE ARE MORE OF THEM ON THE EXAM.

The first topic is most often one of these: Work / Studies / Accommodation

It is also possible that the first topic will be: Home Decoration, Hometown or Your Country

MOST OFTEN TOPICS:

Work/Studies

Do you work or are you a student?

Why did you choose this kind of work/to study this subject?

Do you like your job?

What’s the most interesting part of being a ... (... / student)?

What’s the most difficult part of being a ... (... / student)?

What do you dislike about your work or studies?

What kind of work would you like to do in the future?

Accommodation

Do you live in a house or an apartment/flat?

Can you describe the place where you live?

What do you like about your flat?

Which is your favourite room in your home?

What can you see from the windows?

Would you change anything about your home?

Would you like to move to a different home in the future?

Home Decoration

What kind of decoration do you prefer?

How is your home decorated?

What is your favorite color when decorating your home?

What colour would you never use in your home?

What colour would you choose to paint the walls of your room?

Do people in your country like redecorating their homes?

What is the new decorating trend for this year?

Hometown

Tell me about your hometown.

What’s your hometown known for?

Do you like your hometown?

How long have you been living there?

Do you think you’ll continue living there for a long time?

How has your town changed in the last 20 years?

Your Country

Where is your country located?

Which part of your country do most people live in?

What are the main industries in your country?

What are some of the good things about living in your country?

What are some of the bad things about living in your country?

Will you stay in your country in the future?

NEW TOPICS:

Sunglasses

Do you often wear sunglasses?

When do you wear sunglasses?

Do you spend a lot of money on sunglasses?

Do you give sunglasses as a gift?

Have you ever lost your sunglasses?

Video Games

Do you play video games?

What kinds of video games do you like to play?

Is it good for young people to play video games?

Singing

Do you like singing?

Do you have any singing classes at school?

Can many people in your country sing?

Money

How do you save money?

What do you think about payment apps or mobile payments?

Do you use a credit card to buy things?

Do you think cash will still be popular in the future?

Celebrities

Who is your favorite celebrity in your country?

What kind of famous people do you often see in the news?

Losing Things

Do you often lose things?

What can we do to avoid losing things?

Why do some people lose things more often than others?

What will you do if you find something lost by others?

Collecting

Why do some people like to collect things?

Is collecting things a popular pastime in your country?

What kind of items do people collect in your country?

Why do you think people like having collections?

Where do they keep the things they collect?

Do you collect anything?

Crowded Places

Do you like crowded places?

How do you feel when you go to crowded places?

What kinds of places are often crowded in your area?

Is there a crowded place near where you live?

Do most people like crowded places?

When was the last time you were in a crowded place?

Why do you think some people don’t like crowded places?

Social Media

Do you like using social media?

Which ones?

Do your friends use social media?

What chatting apps/software do you use?

When did you start to use social media?

Do you think you spend too much time on social media?

What do people do on social media?

Cakes

Do you like cakes or any other desserts?

Do you know how to make a cake?

Have you ever made a cake?

Why do some people dislike eating sweet food?

Are there any traditional desserts in your country?

Did you like cakes when you were a child?

Memory

What do you have to remember to do every day?

Is it easy for you to forget to do these things?

Are you good at memorizing things?

How do you help yourself to remember things?

Have you ever forgotten something important?

Colours

What is your favorite color?

Are there any colors that have a special meaning in your culture?

What color of clothes do you not like to wear?

What colour of car would you buy?

Do colours influence you?

What's the most popular colour in your country?

What colour would you never use in your phone?

Music

Do many people like music?

What kind of music do you listen to?

How much time do you spend listening to music each day?

Do you ever listen to music while you are at work?

Do/did you have music lessons at school?

What kinds of music are popular in your country?

Have you ever been to a live concert?

Being Bored

Do you often get bored?

What kinds of things are boring to you?

Was school boring when you were younger?

Do you feel bored more often now than when you were younger?

What do you do when you start feeling bored?

TO BE CONTINUED

OLD TOPICS WHICH STAYED FROM 2023

Fishing

Is fishing popular in your country?

Do you like eating fish?

Have you ever been to a place where there are lots of fish around you?

Have you seen any movies with lots of fish?

Why do people go fishing?

Running

Do you like running?

Where do you go running?

How often do you go running?

Which places do you think are perfect for running?

Do you think running is a good way to stay healthy?

Tea/Coffee

Do you like to drink coffee or tea?

Do most people prefer tea or coffee today?

How often do you drink coffee or tea?

Are coffee and tea popular in your country?

Helping people

Do you usually help people around you?

How do you help people around you?

Do your parents teach you how to help others?

Robots

Are you interested in robots?

Would you like to have robots in your home?

Are robots important?

How can robots affect people’s lives?

Would you like to drive a robot operated car?

Maps

Do you often use maps?

Are you good at reading maps?

Do you prefer electronic or paper maps?

How often do you maps on your phone?

When was the first time when you used a map?

Did you learn to use maps when you were a child?

Chatting

Do you like chatting with friends?

What do you usually chat about with friends?

Do you prefer to chat with a group of people or with one friend?

Do you prefer to communicate face-to-face or via social media?

Do you argue with friends?

Have your discussion topics changed since you were a child?

Riding a bike/bicycles

How often do you ride a bicycle?

Did you have a bike when you were a child?

Did you ride a bike to school?

Is it difficult to learn to ride a bike?

Is it popular to ride a bike in your country?

When was the last time you used your bicycle?

Will you teach your children to ride a bicycle?

Noise

Do you mind noises?

Do any noises bother you?

Is there too much noise in our world today?

What kind of noise do you come across every day?

What sounds do you like?

What sounds do you dislike?

Films/Cinema

Did you usually go to the cinema when you were a child?

Do you often go to the cinema with your friends?

Do you still like the same kind of movie you liked as a child?

What films do you like?

How often do you go to the cinema?

Did you usually go to the cinema when you were a child?

Do you prefer foreign films or films made in your country?

Musical Instruments

Do you know how to play a musical instrument?

Do you think students should learn to play musical instruments at school?

Have you taken any classes on musical instruments in school?

Geography

Do you like Geography?

Do you think Geography is useful?

Have you ever studied Geography at school?

Do you want to be a geographer in the future?

Gifts

What's the best gift you've ever received?

Do you like to give expensive gifts?

How often do you buy gifts for other people?

Have you ever given handmade gifts to others?

Have you ever received a gift you didn't like?

Are you good at choosing gifts?

Clothes

What clothes do you like to wear?  

What kind of clothes do you never wear?

Do you wear the same clothes on weekdays and weekends?

What colour clothes do you like?

Do you prefer to wear comfortable and casual clothes or smart clothes?

Do you spend a lot of time choosing clothes?

Transport

What's the most popular means of transport in your hometown?

How do you go to work/school?

Will you use public transport more in the future?

Will you drive more in the future?

Are there any traffic problems in your area?

DEBATING 

from the website : https://www.quadeducationgroup.com/blog/debate-topics-for-high-school

Debating can greatly impact your ability to develop critical thinking skills, communicate your ideas clearly, and conduct thorough research to support your opinions. Keep reading for a list of popular debate topics for students of all ages. 

‍

When you're in a debate, you learn how to make strong arguments, really listen to what others are saying, and quickly respond. It's like mental gymnastics, making you sharper and quicker-witted. 

We've put together a huge list of 100 debate topics that are perfect for middle and high school students like you. These topics cover all sorts of areas, so there's something for everyone. Plus, we've thrown in some tips to help you get even better at debating and answered some common questions about how debating works in schools.

Debating is not just about winning arguments; it's about understanding all sides of an issue. This skill is super useful, not just in school but in life. Whether you're discussing something with friends or figuring out your own beliefs, being able to debate helps a ton. 

And remember, a good debater can argue any side of an issue because they understand the importance of seeing the full picture. So, dive into these debate topics for students and see which ones get you fired up to start debating. Who knows? You might discover a passion for something new or find out you're really good at making your point.

Popular Debate Topics in School

These middle school and high school debate topics will help students foster a deeper understanding of complex issues, hone their critical thinking skills, and cultivate respectful dialogue.

Debate Topics About Society and Governance

Explore pressing issues and engage in thoughtful discussions with these curated debate topics focused on societal trends and governance challenges.

Debate Topics for High School About Politics

1. Is democracy the best form of government? 

2. Should voting be mandatory? 

3. Can protests create change? 

4. Should the Electoral College stay? 

5. Is nationalism beneficial? 

6. Should Political Campaign Funding Be Publicly Financed? 

7. Is Political Polarization Threatening Democracy? 

Debate Topics for High School About Government

8. Big vs. small government? 

9. Should the government regulate the Internet?

10. Can censorship ever be justified?

11. Government funding for space exploration? 

12. Is universal healthcare a government responsibility? 

13. Should electoral systems be reformed to enhance democratic processes?

Debate Topics for High School About Business

14. Corporate Social Responsibility: Necessary? 

15. Minimum Wage: Essential or Excessive?

16. Businesses as Social Problem Solvers?

17. The Gig Economy: Exploitative or Empowering? 

18. Profit vs. Ethics: Where Should Companies Stand? 

19. Should Companies Embrace Remote Work Permanently? 

20. Is Universal Basic Income a Viable Solution to Economic Inequality? 

21. Should Businesses Be Required to Disclose Their Environmental Footprint? 

22. Are Subscription-Based Business Models Sustainable in the Long Run? 

23. Is the Sharing Economy Beneficial for Society? 

Debate Topics About Humanities and Arts

Dive into the rich world of cultural expression and historical perspectives with these engaging debate topics for humanities and arts.

Debate Topics for High School About History

1. Was the Industrial Revolution beneficial or detrimental? 

2. Should historical figures be judged by modern standards?

3. Is history destined to repeat itself?

4. Were the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki justified? 

5. How has colonialism shaped the modern world? 

Debate Topics for High School About Philosophy

6. Do humans have free will? 

7. Is there life after death? 

8. Can morality exist without religion? 

9. Is happiness the ultimate goal of life? 

10. Should the truth be prioritized above all? 

11. Do humans have an inherent purpose? 

12. Is reality subjective?

13. Are moral absolutes possible? 

Debate Topics for High School About Beauty

14. Is beauty subjective or objective? 

15. Has social media distorted beauty perceptions? 

16. Should cosmetic surgery be banned for minors?

17. Are beauty contests harmful? 

18. Can beauty standards be harmful?

Debate Topics About Science and Technology

Uncover the complexities and advancements in our world through these stimulating debate topics centered on science and technology.

Debate Topics for High School About Science

1. Is genetic engineering ethical? 

2. Should we invest in space exploration? 

3. Can science solve all problems? 

4. Is climate change the greatest threat? 

5. Are humans overly reliant on technology?

6. Should Pluto be classified as a planet?

Debate Topics for High School About Nature

7. Preserve or develop national parks? 

8. Is veganism the environmental solution? 

9. Balancing development and environmental protection?

10. Is hunting ethical? 

11. Should zoos exist? 

12. Should Governments Implement Stricter Regulations to Combat Deforestation?.

13. Is Urbanization Positively or Negatively Impacting Biodiversity?

14. Should Plastic Straws Be Banned to Reduce Ocean Pollution? 

15. Is Ecotourism an Effective Tool for Conservation? 

16. Should Protected Areas Be Opened to Limited Sustainable Development? 

Debate Topics for High School About Technology

17. Should there be limits to artificial intelligence development? 

18. Is technology dehumanizing us? 

19. Can privacy survive in the digital era? 

20. Should social media face regulation? 

21. Is internet access a human right? 

Debate Topics About Health and Ethics

Explore the intersection of well-being and moral principles with these thought-provoking debate topics on health and ethics.

Debate Topics for High School About Ethics

1. Is capital punishment justified? 

2. Should euthanasia be legalized? 

3. Is animal testing ethical? 

4. Do social media companies restrict free speech? 

5. Should cloning be permitted? 

Debate Topics for High School About Health

6. Should vaccinations be mandatory for all? 

7. Is mental health sufficiently prioritized in society? 

8. Should junk food be subject to taxation? 

9. Is the pharmaceutical industry profit-driven?

10. Can technology effectively address health challenges?

Debate Topics About Culture and Entertainment

Delve into the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of culture and entertainment with these diverse debate topics designed to spark lively discussions.

Funny Debate Topics for High School and Middle School

1. Are cats superior to dogs as pets? 

2. Is pineapple an acceptable topping for pizza?

3. Should superheroes serve as role models? 

4. Can video games qualify as a sport? 

5. Is intelligence more valuable than humor? 

6. Is cereal soup? 

7. Should socks be worn with sandals? 

8. Is water wet? 

9. Is a hot dog a sandwich? 

10. Should pants be worn at the waist or ankles? 

Debate Topics for High School About Pop Culture

11. Do Celebrities Have a Responsibility to Be Role Models? 

12. Is Binge-Watching TV Shows Harmful?

13. Should Music with Explicit Lyrics Be Banned? 

14. Is Social Media Creating Unrealistic Life Expectations?

15. Can Video Games Be Considered Art? 

16. Do Reality TV Shows Reflect Reality? 

17. Is TikTok a Positive Influence on Youth Culture? Should Fan Fiction be Considered Legitimate Literature? 

18. Are Remakes and Reboots Ruining Classic Films and TV Shows? 

19. Is Cancel Culture Justified?

Debate Topics About High School About Education

Engage with critical educational issues and ideas through these carefully selected debate topics tailored for high school students.

1. Should uniforms be mandatory in schools? 

2. Is homework beneficial or harmful? 

3. Should school start times be later? 

4. Can online learning replace traditional classrooms?

5. Should schools ban junk food? Is a college education worth the cost? 

6. Should vocational training be favored over traditional college education?

7. Are standardized tests effective in measuring student ability? 

8. Should schools incorporate life skills into their curriculum?

9. Is homeschooling a preferable alternative to traditional schooling? 

Tips on How to Improve Your Debating Skills

Debating enhances critical thinking, communication, and persuasion, with key improvement strategies including active listening for effective counterarguments and confident, clear presentation of your points. The following are core strategies for strengthening your debating skills:

Research Thoroughly

Before engaging in a debate, thoroughly research the topic at hand. Familiarize yourself with both sides of the argument, gather relevant facts, statistics, and evidence to support your points, and anticipate counterarguments.

Practice Active Listening

Effective debating requires not only presenting your own arguments persuasively but also actively listening to your opponent's points. Pay close attention to what they're saying, identify their key arguments, and be prepared to respond thoughtfully.

Develop Strong Arguments

Construct clear, concise, and logical arguments to support your position. Use evidence, examples, and reasoning to strengthen your points and make them more persuasive. Avoid relying solely on emotional appeals or unsupported assertions.

Refute Counterarguments

Anticipate potential counterarguments from your opponent and prepare responses to refute them. Address opposing viewpoints directly, acknowledge valid points, and offer compelling rebuttals supported by evidence.

Maintain Civility and Respect

Debating is a constructive exchange of ideas, so it's essential to maintain civility and respect towards your opponent. Avoid personal attacks, derogatory language, or disrespectful behavior, and focus on the substance of the arguments.

Improve Your Public Speaking Skills

Effective communication is key to successful debating. Work on improving your public speaking skills, including voice modulation, articulation, and body language, to convey your arguments confidently and persuasively.

Practice Debating Regularly

Like any skill, debating improves with practice. Take advantage of opportunities to participate in debates, whether in school, community, or online forums. Practice debating different topics, engage with diverse viewpoints, and seek feedback to identify areas for improvement.

Stay Informed

Stay updated on current events, social issues, and developments in areas of interest. Being well-informed allows you to engage in debates on a wide range of topics and contribute more effectively to discussions.

Embrace Constructive Feedback

Be open to receiving feedback from peers, coaches, or judges on your debating performance. Use feedback as an opportunity to learn and grow, identifying strengths to build on and areas for improvement.

Reflect and Learn

After each debate, take time to reflect on your performance. Consider what went well, what could have been done differently, and how you can continue to refine your debating skills. Learning from each experience will help you become a more effective debater over time.

By implementing these tips and strategies, you can strengthen your debating skills and become a more confident and persuasive communicator. Whether you're debating in a formal setting or engaging in discussions in everyday life, honing your debating skills will serve you well in effectively expressing your viewpoints and influencing others.