Making a point

In this programme, we find out about expressions you can use when you're having a discussion or disagreement with someone and you want to 'make a point' - make a statement or tell them what you think about something. We do this with the help of clips from a discussion between the British Prime Minister, Tony Blair and a BBC journalist.

After you have listened to the programme, get some more practice using the quizzes below.

Language for making a point
Expressing opinion		Examples
I think (that)...		I think you should go now.
My view is (that)...		My view is that the project will fail.
In my opinion, ...		In my opinion, the firm can succeed.
Persuading
I can assure you (that)...		I can assure you that we've done everything we can.
Making a statement
The fact is (that)...		The fact is, he's a great performer.
The point is (that)...		The point is, we don't know if they're being honest.
Other expressions
You're missing the point (can sound a bit rude)		You're missing the point - why do you never listen properly to what I'm saying?
Look, ... (can sound quite aggressive)		Look, everyone thinks it's a bad idea.
Note: 'that' is optional after I think.., my view is..., I can assure you..., the fact is... and the point is....

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WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNT?

Now it's time for you to have a go at practising the language we've looked at in this programme. Part A is a short listening activity and part B requires you to arrange words into sentences. Good luck!

A. LISTENING ACTIVITY Here's a task: Listen to this conversation. See if you can spot four expressions used to show disagreement.


B. ARRANGING WORDS
You are the Minister of Health and a journalist is interviewing you about your plans to stop people from smoking in public places. You want to explain why the ban is a good idea, but you are a bit nervous and get your words mixed up. Rearrange the sentences so that they make sense, using the expressions we heard in the programme.


Don't have flash?
You can also download a printable version of this activity.

Download Activity (pdf -14k)