GCAS Strategies 15 Discussion: Facts

Blue computer screen with facts and data

Add numbers, facts and specifics

Image Credit
Buffik via Pixabay

In this lesson, we'll work on using facts to build your argument. 

Introduction

Answer the question below: 

Do you think that it is important for the government to support small businesses?

Warm Up

What's the difference between a professional opinion and an amateur one?

Language

A. Simple facts

For each claim, think of a fact you could use.

Example:

CLAIM: My company is growing.
FACT: Last year, my company had 40 staff, and now we have over a hundred.

Claim:

  1. My house is near the train station.
  2. I work for a big company.
  3. I'm very busy.
  4. I receive too many emails.

B. Complex facts

  1. Remember the question you were asked in the Introduction: "Do you think that it is important for the government to support small businesses?" 
    • Gather three interesting facts about it.
  2. What is a topic you personally feel passionate about?
    • Tell your teacher three facts about it.

C. Introducing facts

You may want to prepare the listener for a fact. The following phrases are especially useful to introduce surprising or impressive facts.

  1. Actually...
  2. In fact...
  3. Research has shown...
  4. You might not believe it, but...

Choose one phrase. Use it three times to introduce facts from Language A or B.

    Practice

    Practice using facts to answer the following questions. 

    1. What are ways in which companies can ensure customer retention?
    2. What are the best methods to advertise to young adults?
    3. How have working conditions changed over the last ten years?
    4. Do you think there are any unfair labor practices in workplaces in your country?