You will be given an outline of a speech with key bullet points for assertions and reasoning. You will then have 15 minutes to research about the following topic and assess if the examples sustaining the motion are suitable:
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THBT International cooperation is essential for protecting the environment
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Assertion
Joint international cooperation to protect the environment is necessary to assure that decisive resolutions are discussed and enforced.
Reasoning
International cooperation is necessary because all governments have the duty to protect the environment. Some nations like China and the United States hold the highest percentage of global carbon emissions. No government should ever step down from international agreements as it hinders all other members, the possibility of making the agreements legally binding should be considered.
Evidence
Nations with a high impact on climate have the duty to endorse international treaties as in the case of the Paris Agreement. As of 2020 The United States, who is responsible for 15% of carbon emissions, withdrew from the agreement, a decision that has been frowned upon by the international community. (Source - BBC News)
Do you think the evidence is suitable?
How is evidence backing the statement?
(See Answer 1)
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THBT the use of language learning apps and technology is an effective way to learn a new language
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Assertion
Language skills represent a valuable asset for personal and professional development in a connected world. Learning languages has been made accessible to the vast majority through technology and language apps.
Reasoning
Some languages are increasingly more demanded in many career paths and necessary to even access some job opportunities. As in the case of English that nowadays represents the Lingua Franca across the globe. It is estimated that more than half of the world’s population is bilingual and on top of professional career opportunities available in different languages, the benefits of language learning have been proven to keep the brain healthy and less prone to diseases. Nowadays language learning apps have made it possible for the vast majority of people to have access to: qualified language professionals for face to face classes; individual learning on language platforms and apps;
online communities with other peers on the same learning path; all of the benefits are accompanied by an affordable subscription to apps/websites and flexible hours. The latter is a modern solution as learning can be tailored to any schedule needs as it is always accessible.
Evidence
Platforms like Duolingo, British Council Learn English provide a completely free of charge language learning experience with interactive activities always available. Companies like Babbel, Rosetta Stone, Transparent Language, provide inexpensive subscription plans that range from €7.99 to €24.99 a month to learn a new language. These companies include the possibility to join classes with a teacher and provide the necessary human interaction to practice the skills.
Do you think the evidence is suitable?
How is evidence backing the statement?
(See Answer 2)
No
The evidence is suitable to the topic and taken from a reliable source.
The report though is outdated and represents a source of misleading information for the topic.
As of 2021 the US re-joined in the Paris Agreement and is working alongside the other countries to act on climate change.
Yes
The quoted websites are indeed attested platforms for learning and provide an easy example of education resources available.
The example is easy to understand for the audience and most likely many people are familiar with the topic.