reading and talking

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• vmbo lwoo, havo
• Leerjaar 5

reading and talking

text 1

The Death Penalty – A Debate

The death penalty, also known as capital punishment, is the legal execution of a person as punishment for a serious crime, usually murder. It is a topic that causes strong opinions and is debated around the world. Some people believe that the death penalty is necessary for justice. They argue that if someone takes a life, they should also lose their own. Supporters say it can bring closure to victims' families and prevent the criminal from harming others again. Some also think it can scare people from committing serious crimes. Others strongly disagree. They say killing someone, even as punishment, is wrong. Innocent people can be wrongly convicted, and once someone is executed, mistakes cannot be undone. Opponents also argue that the death penalty does not actually stop people from committing crimes. In many countries, it is seen as a human rights issue.

In the end, the question remains: Is it right to punish a crime with death? Or should societies focus more on justice and rehabilitation?

TALK for 5 minutes

Should Homeowners Get a Tax Advantage on Their Mortgage?

In the Netherlands, homeowners can deduct the interest they pay on their mortgage from their income tax. This means they pay less tax if they have a mortgage. But is this fair and useful? People have different opinions. Supporters say this tax advantage helps people afford to buy a house. Without it, many might struggle to pay high mortgage interest rates. It also encourages home ownership, which can be good for families and communities. Some believe it helps keep the housing market stable.

On the other hand, some think this tax rule mostly benefits wealthy people who can afford expensive homes. It can make houses more expensive overall because people borrow more, knowing they get a tax break. Critics argue that it makes it harder for young people or renters to enter the housing market. They also say the government loses a lot of money from this deduction, which could be used for other important services.

So, should the mortgage interest deduction stay, or should it be changed? This question affects both homeowners and the whole society.

talk for five miniutes

text 3

Should Student Loans Be Abolished?

Many students need loans to pay for their education. Student loans help cover costs like tuition, books, and living expenses. But some people think student loans should be abolished. Others believe they are necessary.  Some people say student loans create too much debt for young people. After finishing school, many graduates struggle to pay back large loans, which can cause stress and limit their future choices. Abolishing loans could make education more fair, so everyone has the chance to study without worrying about money. Others think loans are important because they allow students to afford higher education even if their families don’t have much money. If loans were abolished, the government would have to pay for all education, which could mean higher taxes for everyone. Some also worry that without loans, fewer people might choose to study, affecting the future workforce.

The question is: Should education be free for everyone, or is it fair that students invest in their own future through loans?

talk for five minutes

Find your own controversial topic to discuss

Did you find this exercxise useful?

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How do you rate your ability to speak English?

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Do you want to practice speaking more often?

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