Speaking term 2 – Discussion – Week 1

How to form an opinion/ argument

Step 1

Step 2
Look at the process of forming an opinion as an internal argument with yourself, a
mental debate, so to speak. This means looking at all sides of the issue, pros and
cons.

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Listen to discussions, debates, and even arguments. Opinions on topics of social

significance generate public debate everywhere you go, from the editorial pages of
newspapers, to national television news, and many points in between.

Step 6

Find out what recognized experts and professionals have to say about the subject. The
man, or woman on the street does not always have access to all the pertinent
information on issues like homeland security, the stock market, or major health
issues. The person on the street will usually have an opinion, though, if they are
aware of the issue.
Speaking term 2 – Discussion – Week 1
Step 7

Step 8

Learn to throw out sensationalized or motive generated stories on the subject. If you
only read the headlines on an issue, especially in a biased media element, you will be
led into thinking the way that media element wants you to think. Often, headlines are
worded in such a way to grab attention, and only in the fine print will you find any
reasoned, substantially accurate information on the topic.

Step 9

Step 10

Step 11

Keep your opinion to yourself until you reach the point described above, unless you
are asked for it, or choose to reveal it in friendly discussion.
Speaking term 2 – Discussion – Week 1

STEPS:

Choose the subject, or issue you feel the need to have an opinion about. 

Learn about the subject. You may be satisfied to read only one article at an online
website, or you may research for hours, but until you understand all of the sides of
this hypothetical argument, your opinion should not become a conviction.

Talk to other people, get their opinions on the subject, and weigh the reasons they
feel like they do. Be careful not to get a one sided view. If you want to form an
opinion about a topic like college football teams, don't ask just alumni from one
school.

Talk about the issue or subject with your friends. Friends often share your view about
many social, or local issues, and if they have formed a solid opinion, they may have
reasons for what they believe which will help you form your own.

Ask yourself if what you hear or read is reasonable, logical, and realistic. If someone
says, in their opinion, a certain stock will triple in value in a short time, then you may
obviously question their opinion. Often, this "shading" of facts is much more subtle,
so educating yourself is the best foundation for forming a coherent view of the topic.

Decide what your opinion is on a subject, be willing to state it, defend it, and stand by
it, but have an open mind unless you are thoroughly convinced and willing to argue
your point of view.