Mastering Communication of Information 3 What types of questions are in the GBC?

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Many questions in the GBC (and in real life) are complicated. In this lesson, let’s look at how to take a stance and defend it.

Introduction

In our world, we have two types of questions: closed questions and open questions. Can you think of an example for each?

Warm Up

Here are some examples of answers. Which ones are answers to open questions? Which ones are answers to closed questions?

Yes, I think 4-day work weeks are effective because they allow people to better plan out their time and work more efficiently.
Our clients think you're the best consultant they've ever worked with. Thanks for taking such good care of them.
The environment should be taken care of because humans need a healthy environment to survive.
It was great - we went to go see the cherry blossoms at the park.
No, I don't have time this week because I have three reports and a presentation to work on.

Language

In the last lesson, we discussed how answers should have 5W1H components. Look at the following:

Yes-No question → Say yes or no. Then follow up with a reason.
- Do you like your job? Yes. It challenges me because I can work with various stakeholders and brainstorm ways to solve their problems every day.
Open questions → Give an answer or strong opinion. Then say why using the 5W1H.
- How do you commute? I work full-time from home, so I don’t commute to the office at all.
- What do you plan to do after retirement? I’m thinking of living in Florida. It’s warm and sunny, close to the beach, and it also has the infrastructure for retired, elderly people. I’m looking forward to a calm, happy life with no drama.

Practice

Your teacher will ask you a list of questions. Respond appropriately, based on whether it is an open or closed question.