The passage discusses the debate around replacing human workers with robots and computers. It acknowledges the argument that robots can currently only replace humans for simple, routine tasks. However, it argues that technology has advanced to allow robots and computers to perform complex tasks like decision-making and creativity. The passage provides examples of computers that can analyze large amounts of data and detect suspicious patterns that humans may miss. It addresses the counterargument that replacing humans is unethical by arguing that in some cases, like surgery, using robots can prevent human error and is more ethical. The passage concludes that as technology improves, there will be more situations where replacing humans with robots is both more efficient and ethical.

2. an essay in which you agreeor disagreewith an issue, using reasons/
evidence/ proof/ facts to support your opinion

5. Ever since the invention of computers, technology has done more and more of the job of the average
worker. From mathematical calculations to mailing lists, computers have become more efficient, in more areas,
than their human colleagues. Although some argue that computers will never replace people, others are
concerned about the advanced robotic technology that computers make possible. Indeed, it is likely that the use
of more and better robots will someday result in fewer jobs for humans. However, this should not be seen as a
problem. Rather, as technology improves, employers in all fields should look to maximize their robotic workforce
and minimize human error.
Ever since the invention of computers, technology has done more and more of the job of the average
worker. From mathematical calculations to mailing lists, computers have become more efficient, in more areas,
than their human colleagues. Although some argue that computers will never replace people, others are
concerned about the advanced robotic technology that computers make possible. Indeed, it is likely that the use
of more and better robots will someday result in fewer jobs for humans. However, this should not be seen as a
problem. Rather, as technology improves, employers in all fields should look to maximize their robotic workforce
and minimize human error.
writer’s point of view

6. Ever since the invention of computers, technology has
done more and more of the job of the average worker. From
mathematical calculations to mailing lists, computers have
become more efficient, in more areas, than their human
colleagues. Although some argue that computers will never
replace people, others are concerned about the advanced
robotic technology that computers make possible. Indeed, it is
likely that the use of more and better robots will someday
result in fewer jobs for humans. However, this should not be
seen as a problem. Rather, as technology improves, employers
in all fields should look to maximize their robotic workforce
and minimize human error.
Ever since the invention of computers, technology has
done more and more of the job of the average worker. From
mathematical calculations to mailing lists, computers have
become more efficient, in more areas, than their human
colleagues. Although some argue that computers will never
replace people, others are concerned about the advanced
robotic technology that computers make possible. Indeed, it is
likely that the use of more and better robots will someday
result in fewer jobs for humans. However, this should not be
seen as a problem. Rather, as technology improves, employers
in all fields should look to maximize their robotic workforce
and minimize human error.
General/ background information about the
importance/ role of technology in human life
State 2 opposing ideas
Mention the opposing point of view
Thesis statement: state the writer’s
opinion/position
Lead to the writer’s point of view

7. The middle school years (grades 7 and 8) are known to be the
“tough years.” These are the years when the uneven pace of
girls’ and boys’ physical, emotional, and cognitive development
is most noticeable. Girls are ahead of boys on all counts, and
both suffer. Educators debate whether separating boys and
girls during these difficult years might improve students’
academic performance. Although some parents and educators
oppose same-sex classes, there is some evidence that
separating boys and girls in middle school yields positive
results.
General information about the middle school
years – tough years and explanation
State the debate/ debatable idea
Mention the opposing point of view
Thesis statement: state the writer’s
opinion/position
The middle school years (grades 7 and 8) are known to be the
“tough years.” These are the years when the uneven pace of
girls’ and boys’ physical, emotional, and cognitive development
is most noticeable. Girls are ahead of boys on all counts, and
both suffer. Educators debate whether separating boys and
girls during these difficult years might improve students’
academic performance. Although some parents and educators
oppose same-sex classes, there is some evidence that
separating boys and girls in middle school yields positive
results.

8. Individualism is a fundamental part of society in many
countries. Most people believe in the right to express their
own opinion without fear of punishment. This value, however,
is coming under fire in an unlikely place – the public school
classroom. The issue revolves around school uniforms. Should
the public school students be allowed to make individual
decisions about clothing, or should all students be required to
wear a uniform? In my opinion, school uniforms are the better
choice to simplify students’ lives, encourage their
responsibility, and ensure equality in school.
Individualism is a fundamental part of society in many
countries. Most people believe in the right to express their
own opinion without fear of punishment. This value, however,
is coming under fire in an unlikely place – the public school
classroom. The issue revolves around school uniforms. Should
the public school students be allowed to make individual
decisions about clothing, or should all students be required to
wear a uniform? In my opinion, school uniforms are the better
choice to simplify students’ lives, encourage their
responsibility, and ensure equality in school.
General information about the importance of
individualism
Narrow down the topic to lead to school
uniform issue
Mention 2 opposing points of view
Thesis statement: state the writer’s
opinion/position

9. - Background information/ Explanation of the issue
- (Narrow down the topic)
- (State 2 opposing points of view)
- Mention the opposing point of view/counter argument
- Thesis statement: state your point of view (including
reasons)

10. Further reading – page 158-159
Practice 3 – p159

11. Stating 2 opposing points of view
- There have been a lot of arguments about whether …. or…..
- Whether .... or .... is a controversial issue.
- It has been a matter of debate whether….. or……
- It is a highly debatable issue whether …… or…..
- The question whether…has drawn much attention from the public.
- In the present age, ……. is playing an increasing important role in our lives.
However, in the meantime whether it’s a blessing or curse has sparked much
debate. Some people hold the view that ….., while many others generally
contend that …..
- The debate on ….. continues, and it seems that almost everyone has an opinion.

12. Mention the counter argument/ opposing point of view
Many/Some people (may/ would) believe/argue/feel/think/suppose/ claim/ hold
the view/ contend that …
It is generally/ commonly/ often thought/believed/supposed that …
It would be easy to/One could easily think/ believe/ imagine/ suppose that…
It might seem/appear/look as if …
There might be some people who hold the view/claim/ think/ believe that………
Those who support……….. may claim/ contend/ assert that…..
There is no doubt that…..
It is clear/ obvious/ irrefutable/ undeniable that….

13. Lead to thesis statement after stating the counter argument/ opposing
point of view
However, in reality,…..
There is (no doubt) some truth in this argument. However,……
Nobody can argue against this, but…..
To some certain extend, they are right. However,…..
Although there are some reasons to…..(counter argument), I totally believe
that…….
However, in my opinion,……
However, I am a strong advocate of the viewpoint that….

14. Thesis statement: including opposing point of view
Despite…….., ……
Although……,…….
Despite……, I believe/ hold the view that
Although….., I believe/ hold the view that
Although…., there is some evidence that …..
Although there are good arguments in favor of….., I personally believe that….
While many people……., I totally support the idea that…..

15. Until now, many have argued that robots can only replace
humans in certain less-skilled jobs. They might, for example, be
able to perform routine tasks on an assembly line. These
opponents of a mechanized workforce may not be aware that
technology has progressed in the areas of decision-making and
creativity. Some robots' work in these areas is almost equal to
that of humans. In fact, some interactive computers are so
well-designed that it will soon be possible to talk with them
almost endlessly before realizing that they are not human
(Loftus). A computer even won the game show Jeopardy not
long ago. These computers are clearly capable of more than
simple tasks.
Until now, many have argued that robots can only replace
humans in certain less-skilled jobs. They might, for example, be
able to perform routine tasks on an assembly line. These
opponents of a mechanized workforce may not be aware that
technology has progressed in the areas of decision-making and
creativity. Some robots' work in these areas is almost equal to
that of humans. In fact, some interactive computers are so
well-designed that it will soon be possible to talk with them
almost endlessly before realizing that they are not human
(Loftus). A computer even won the game show Jeopardy not
long ago. These computers are clearly capable of more than
simple tasks.
Counter argument 1
Example
Rebuttal to argument 1
Explanation, Evidence (citation), Example
→ Prove that your opinion is right.

16. Others argue that, even though computers may someday
be able to approximate human behavior, humans will always
be able to do the job better. While that may be true for a
general-purpose robot, highly-specialized machines can often
do specific tasks better than a human being, no matter how
well-trained. For example, human lawyers may miss important
evidence. This is particularly true when sifting through millions
of emails to prosecute crime in so-called "white collar“ jobs.
Robots, on the other hand, can sort through this information
quickly and accurately. In fact, there is now a software program
that can detect not just obviously illegal proposals, but also
changes in style that can point to suspicious activity. The
computer searches for a switch from a formal to an informal
tone, or particularly urgent wording. Within seconds, the
program can identify the most questionable language and alert
investigators (Murray). In this case, human legal experts cannot
begin to compete with their electronic colleagues.
Others argue that, even though computers may someday
be able to approximate human behavior, humans will always
be able to do the job better. While that may be true for a
general-purpose robot, highly-specialized machines can often
do specific tasks better than a human being, no matter how
well-trained. For example, human lawyers may miss important
evidence. This is particularly true when sifting through millions
of emails to prosecute crime in so-called "white collar“ jobs.
Robots, on the other hand, can sort through this information
quickly and accurately. In fact, there is now a software program
that can detect not just obviously illegal proposals, but also
changes in style that can point to suspicious activity. The
computer searches for a switch from a formal to an informal
tone, or particularly urgent wording. Within seconds, the
program can identify the most questionable language and alert
investigators (Murray). In this case, human legal experts cannot
begin to compete with their electronic colleagues.
Counter argument 2
Rebuttal to argument 2
Example, Explanation, Evidence (citation),
→ Prove that your opinion is right.

17. Finally, some say that it is morally wrong to replace
human beings with robots. They argue that it is unethical to
deprive real people of their jobs, merely for the sake of
efficiency. If efficiency were the only concern, they might be
correct. This argument, however, does not take into account
the consequences of human failings in the workplace. In
surgery, for example, a doctor's arm may shake. A minimally
invasive surgical robot, on the other hand, will always make
the right cut (Manjoo). It would be truly immoral for society to
be concerned about the doctor's job at the expense of the
patient's health.
Finally, some say that it is morally wrong to replace
human beings with robots. They argue that it is unethical to
deprive real people of their jobs, merely for the sake of
efficiency. If efficiency were the only concern, they might be
correct. This argument, however, does not take into account
the consequences of human failings in the workplace. In
surgery, for example, a doctor's arm may shake. A minimally
invasive surgical robot, on the other hand, will always make
the right cut (Manjoo). It would be truly immoral for society to
be concerned about the doctor's job at the expense of the
patient's health.
Counter argument 3
Rebuttal to argument 3
Example, Explanation, Evidence (citation),
→ Prove that your opinion is right.

18. 3. Three opposing argument/ counter argument
One in each body paragraph – at the beginning of each paragraph
4. In separate paragraphs

19. 1. Counter argument 1 (+supporting details) – connector –
rebuttal to argument 1 + supporting details (example,
explanation, reasons, evidence, proof, figures)
2. Counter argument 2 (+supporting details) – connector –
rebuttal to argument 2 + supporting details (example,
explanation, reasons, evidence, proof, figures)
3. Counter argument 3 (+supporting details) – connector –
rebuttal to argument 3 + supporting details (example,
explanation, reasons, evidence, proof, figures)

20. - It has been argued/ contended that………..
- It is clear/ obvious/ irrefutable/ apparent that…..
- It can/ might/ may be argued/ asserted/ claimed/ contended/ maintained that……
- It seems clearly that…..
- There is no doubt that…..
- There is evidence to suggest/ indicate/ demonstrate that
- Those who are in favor of/ advocate /support/ believe in/ are against/ are opposed…….
may argue/ insist that…..
- Opponents / Critics/ Proponents/ Advocates/ Supporters of …….. argue/
claim/contend/point out that….
- Many/ some people argued/ asserted/ claimed (may argue/ claim/ assert) that…..
- The final argument advanced by opponents of …..is that….
- ……. is criticized as…..

21. Compromise but prove that their argument is not powerful enough:
- They have a point in thinking like that. However, what this argument
overlooks/fails to consider/does not take into account is ...
- To a certain extent they are right. This view seems/looks/sounds
convincing/plausible/persuasive at first, but …
- Although the core of this claim is valid, it suffers from a flaw in its reasoning/
application.
- While it is (certainly) true that…, …, it’s important to remember that …
- While that may be true for….., this argument does not take into account…….
- Although this argument is true to some extent, these opponents may not be aware
that…..
- This point has some merit on the surface. However, …..
- It is acknowledged that….., we should also consider……
- This may not always be true.
- This could be true but not in all circumstances.

22. Compromise but prove that their argument is not powerful enough:
- This argument, however, fails to acknowledge/ mention/ recognize/ consider/
address…..
- However, what this argument fails to consider is that (not everyone can) ……
- Even though this is true, what the opponents/ critics fail to mention/ignore is…
- However,……. is more important/ valuable/ necessary than….

23. Completely disagree:
- However,/ Nevertheless,/ Nonetheless,/ In fact,/ On the contrary,…..
- However, if……,……
- However, it is also important to note/ consider that…..
- This view seems/looks/sounds convincing/plausible/persuasive at first, but …
- However, this argument completely ignores the fact that……
- It should be evident that the arguments against …….are not valid.

24. Increasingly, employers will need to decide when and how to replace human workers with computers.
This decision is not easy, and a robot will not always be the right answer. However, it is clear that as computers
approach human ability to reason, as specialized programs develop, and as robots become more reliable, there
will be more circumstances in which replacing a person with a robot is not just the most efficient choice, but
the most ethical one.
It gives a conclusion and repeats the author’s opinion.

25. Increasingly, employers will need to decide when and how
to replace human workers with computers. This decision is not
easy, and a robot will not always be the right answer. However,
it is clear that as computers approach human ability to reason,
as specialized programs develop, and as robots become more
reliable, there will be more circumstances in which replacing a
person with a robot is not just the most efficient choice, but the
most ethical one.
Increasingly, employers will need to decide when and how
to replace human workers with computers. This decision is not
easy, and a robot will not always be the right answer. However,
it is clear that as computers approach human ability to reason,
as specialized programs develop, and as robots become more
reliable, there will be more circumstances in which replacing a
person with a robot is not just the most efficient choice, but the
most ethical one.
Raise the DEBATABLE issue again
Transition by mention the counterargument
in general
Repeat the writer’s point of view
Leave a final thought

26. It should be evident that the arguments against same-sex classes are
not valid. In fact, many people involved in middle-school education say
that same-sex classes provide a better learning environment. Boys and
girls pay less attention to each other and more attention to their
schoolwork (Marquez). As one teacher noted, “girls are more relaxed and
ask more questions; boys are less disruptive and more focused”
(“North”). Girls are less fearful of making mistakes and asking questions
in Math and Science; boys are less inhibited about sharing their ideas in
language and literature. Furthermore, schoolchildren are not
disadvantaged by lack of contact with the opposite sex because they have
many opportunities outside the school setting to interact with one
another. Finally, discrimination occurs in mixed classes, so discrimination
is not a valid argument. Therefore, in my opinion, government should
implement a new policy to allow same-sex classes.
State the opposing argument is not
valid
Summary of writer arguments
Repeat the writer’s point of
view
Leave a final thought
It should be evident that the arguments against same-sex classes are
not valid. In fact, many people involved in middle-school education say
that same-sex classes provide a better learning environment. Boys and
girls pay less attention to each other and more attention to their
schoolwork (Marquez). As one teacher noted, “girls are more relaxed and
ask more questions; boys are less disruptive and more focused”
(“North”). Girls are less fearful of making mistakes and asking questions
in Math and Science; boys are less inhibited about sharing their ideas in
language and literature. Furthermore, schoolchildren are not
disadvantaged by lack of contact with the opposite sex because they have
many opportunities outside the school setting to interact with one
another. Finally, discrimination occurs in mixed classes, so discrimination
is not a valid argument. Therefore, in my opinion, government should
implement a new policy to allow same-sex classes.

27. To sum up, even though homework is criticized as an unnecessary
practice which needs to be abolished, doing homework actually
contributes to students’ better academic performance by helping them to
inculcate knowledge, enjoy family interaction and providing teachers with
an insight into students’ progress. However, it is important to note that
homework should be meticulously designed in order to meet the
standards of raising students’ knowledge rather than a compilation of
repetitive tasks which present students with nothing but boredom.
State the opposing argument is not
valid
Repeat the writer’s point of
view + arguments
Leave a final thought: consideration/
suggestion
To sum up, even though homework is criticized as an unnecessary
practice which needs to be abolished, doing homework actually
contributes to students’ better academic performance by helping them to
inculcate knowledge, enjoy family interaction and providing teachers with
an insight into students’ progress. However, it is important to note that
homework should be meticulously designed in order to meet the
standards of raising students’ knowledge rather than a compilation of
repetitive tasks which present students with nothing but boredom.

28. In conclusion, it is clear to see that capital punishment is a
ridiculously outdated form of punishment that has no place in a modern,
civilized society. As has been discussed, many argue that people who
commit serious crimes such as mass murder and child abuse do not
deserve to live, and that there is a risk of such people re-offending once
they have served the prison sentences that they are given. However, this
simply means that government will have to find alternative strategies to
deal with such criminals, as the risk of executing innocent people is too
great, combined with the essential argument that no one should have the
right to the another person’s life, regardless of the circumstances
State the opposing argument
Repeat the writer’s point of
view
Leave a final thought: consideration/
suggestion
In conclusion, it is clear to see that capital punishment is a
ridiculously outdated form of punishment that has no place in a modern,
civilized society. As has been discussed, many argue that people who
commit serious crimes such as mass murder and child abuse do not
deserve to live, and that there is a risk of such people re-offending once
they have served the prison sentences that they are given. However, this
simply means that government will have to find alternative strategies to
deal with such criminals, as the risk of executing innocent people is too
great, combined with the essential argument that no one should have the
right to the another person’s life, regardless of the circumstances.

29. - (Remind reader back to the topic by stating the issue again)
- Mention the counter argument and then restate your position or
summarize your main arguments
- Leave a final thought to readers (comment/ consideration/ an open issue
to think/ suggestions)

30. to convincethe readers that your opinion is right

31. → Sometimes truth must be approached by multiple ways.

32. You do not just give reasons to support your point of view. You must also
discuss the other side’s reasons and then rebutthem.
Rebut means to point out problems with the other side's reasons
to prove that they are not good reasons
 Critical thinkers

33. COUTER-ARGUMENT
REBUTTAL
an argument (point/reason/view/evidence) that your opponent would make
Your own argument you use to respond directly to/ point out problems with your
opponent’s argument with the effort to prove that the opponents’
arguments are not right, not perfect or not valid.

34. 1. Animal testing is cruel and inhumane
because animals have to suffer pain and
diseases.
2. Animal testing is dangerous because animals
have different DNA to human and what is
safe on them may not be safe on us.
3. Animal testing can be replaced by the use of
supercomputers.
1. Animal testing is strictly governed and
there are laws to ensure the safety of
animals. Besides, animals must be housed,
fed and cared for by trained animal
welfare technicians and veterinarians.
2. Some primates, like chimpanzees and
monkeys, share over 90% of their DNA
with humans. Therefore, safety is
promisingly ensured.
3. It requires a large number of
supercomputers to process a large amount
of information, which increases the cost of
research.

35. INTRODUCTION
‐ General statements: background information about the issue; (narrow down the topic –
explanation of the issue or the situation; 2 opposing points of views; ) counter argument
of the issue
‐ Thesis statement: your point of view/ position
BODY
CONCLUSION
‐ (General information: remind readers back to the topic/ issue)
‐ Mention the counter-argument and restate the thesis statement or summarize
the main arguments
‐ Final thoughts (comment; consideration; an open issue to think; suggestions)
1. Counter argument 1 – connector – rebuttal to argument 1
2. Counter argument 2 – connector – rebuttal to argument 2
3. Counter argument 3 – connector – rebuttal to argument 3

36. Read the topic carefully
and take a position
Gather evidence and
reasons for your arguments
Arrange the arguments
logically
Think of or search for
counter-argument
Choose a suitable logic to organize and
write the outline/ essay

37. Choose one debatable topic:
- Search reading for both sides
- Choose/ take your position
- Choose 3 counter arguments that you can find the problem to rebut
- Think of 3 rebuttals + search for evidence (with source) to support your arguments
- Design your POWER POINT SLIDES: (only key words – no full sentences)
- Slide 1: Name of the topic + name of the members
- Slide 2: Your position
- Slide …..: counter arguments and rebuttals (with illustration of images)
- Slide before last slide: position + final thoughts
- Last slide: Thank you
- Assign who will be in charge of which part in the presentation (Week 15,16)
- Write a 350-word argumentative essays about your topic (include the reference list)
- Submit the Powerpoint slides and essays in week 15

38. - Slide format and design: strictly follow the guided format, smart choice of key
words, images and ways to organize the slides (20pts)
- Content: (40pts)
- Lead-in (Introduction) – 5pts
- Counter argument 1 – rebuttal 1 (with the usage of suitable language) – 10pts
- Counter argument 1 – rebuttal 1 (with the usage of suitable language) – 10pts
- Counter argument 1 – rebuttal 1 (with the usage of suitable language) – 10pts
- Final thoughts – 5pts
- Presentation skills: (40pts)
- Keep eye contact with audience and show enthusiasm in presenting
- Good control of intonation, speed and pause to attract listeners
- Show the ability to speak out the arguments not to read the learnt-by-heart
information
- Speak fluently