Is it important to win?

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1 A cartoon

It’s not always easy to talk about a new subject. But it can help if you practise and learn some good phrases.

What can you say about the wheelchair basketball player in the cartoon?

2 Listening: A sports discussion USEFUL PHRASES a) Before you listen: Why do people think it is or is not important to win? Make notes in two lists. You want to I agree. You’re right. Exactly! say: Yes! b) Now listen once and collect more That’s what I think, too. ideas for your lists. c) Check the Useful phrases on the right.

Then listen again. Which phrases do you not hear?

3 Short answers a) When you don’t agree, you can use short answers.

Read the examples and make a rule. 1. It isn’t important to win. – Yes, it is. 2. When you lose, people laugh. – No, they don’t. You want to say: No! I don’t agree. Sorry, but you’re wrong. Don’t be silly! Rubbish! I don’t think that’s true.

b) The second speakers don’t agree. Show this with short answers. 1. “The best players don’t always win.” – “…” 2. “It’s more important to win than to play fairly.” – “…” 3. “There are more important things than sport.” – “…” 4. “When you lose, you can’t smile.” – “…” 5. “In sport you always need luck, too.” – “…”

4 Your turn: Is it important to win? Explain what you think and why. Say if you agree or not with the others in your group.