ELPR-140
12 Opinion Writing
Topics
with Guiding Prompts Β· Units 1β12
01
Unit 1 Β· Culture and Identity
In your opinion, is it important for young people to continue practicing traditional Saudi customs in modern society? Support your answer with reasons and examples.
Guiding Prompts
1
Start by clearly stating your main opinion: Do you think it is necessary, or optional?
2
Discuss how practicing these customs helps young people develop a strong sense of national identity or belonging.
3
Provide one specific example of a traditional custom (e.g., hospitality, clothing, holidays) that is easily kept in modern life.
4
In your conclusion, what do you think would happen to the culture if young people stopped practicing these customs?
02
Unit 1 / Unit 8 Β· Travel & Culture
Some people believe that traveling to foreign countries changes a person’s identity. Do you agree or disagree? Explain why.
Guiding Prompts
1
Clearly state whether you agree or disagree with this idea.
2
If you agree, describe how seeing new cultures can change a person’s perspective, values, or goals.
3
If you disagree, argue that a person’s core values and identity are formed at a young age and are not easily changed by a short trip.
4
Conclude by summarizing whether you think travel changes who you are, or simply what you know about the world.
03
Unit 3 Β· Water
The government works hard to protect Saudi Arabia’s scarce water resources. In your opinion, what is the most important action individuals should take to save water at home? Give reasons.
Guiding Prompts
1
Identify the one specific action you believe is most important (e.g., shorter showers, fixing leaks, smart landscaping).
2
Explain why you think this specific action makes a bigger difference or is easier to follow than other actions.
3
Describe how an individual or family can integrate this action easily into their daily routine.
4
What might be the negative consequence for the environment or country if individuals do not take responsibility to save water?
04
Unit 4 / Unit 5 Β· Opportunities & Wellbeing
Do you believe that having a well-paying job is the most important factor for being happy in life? State your opinion and provide supporting reasons.
Guiding Prompts
1
Start by clearly agreeing or disagreeing: Is money the most important thing for happiness?
2
If you disagree, list and explain two other factors (e.g., family, health, purpose) that you think are more important than a high salary.
3
Acknowledge the other side: explain why financial stability does reduce stress and contribute positively to wellbeing.
4
Conclude by defining what true happiness means to you, beyond financial wealth.
05
Unit 5 Β· Wellbeing
While some people enjoy eating fast food, others believe it causes serious health problems. What is your opinion on how often people should eat fast food? Explain.
Guiding Prompts
1
State your clear recommendation regarding the ideal frequency for eating fast food (e.g., once a week, once a month, never).
2
Discuss one main health reason supporting your recommended frequency (e.g., linked to obesity, low energy levels, processed ingredients).
3
Describe what makes fast food so attractive, making it difficult for people to limit their intake.
4
What is a positive “middle ground” strategy (e.g., eating fast food but making healthier menu choices)?
06
Unit 5 / Unit 6 Β· Mysteries & Wellbeing
Some people believe that traditional remedies (like herbs and honey) are better than modern medicine for common illnesses. Do you agree or disagree with this view?
Guiding Prompts
1
Make it clear which type of remedy you generally trust more for common (minor) illnesses.
2
If you trust traditional remedies more, list one benefit (e.g., fewer side effects, natural ingredients).
3
If you trust modern medicine more, argue that scientific testing and precise dosages make it safer.
4
When do you think it is dangerous or wrong to only rely on traditional remedies?
07
Unit 7 Β· Living Space
Some families prefer living in traditional, larger houses, while others prefer modern, compact apartments. Which type of living space do you think is better for a family? Give reasons.
Guiding Prompts
1
Clearly state which living space you believe is better suited for a modern family.
2
Discuss one major advantage (e.g., cost, maintenance, location) of your chosen type of home.
3
Discuss one major disadvantage of the type of home you did not choose.
4
How might your answer change depending on the size of the family (small vs. large extended family)?
08
Unit 8 Β· Travel
With many new attractions being built in the Kingdom (like Neom, AlUla, and Riyadh Season), do you believe it is better for Saudis to vacation inside the country or abroad? State your opinion.
Guiding Prompts
1
Clearly state your opinion: Is it better to vacation at home or abroad right now?
2
Provide two main benefits of the option you chose (e.g., supporting local economy, convenience vs. experiencing new cultures, weather).
3
How do the new giga-projects and entertainment options in KSA affect your perspective?
4
Conclude by summarizing what factor (cost, experience, relaxation) you think is most important when choosing a vacation.
09
Unit 9 Β· Shopping
Online shopping is becoming extremely popular. Do you think it will eventually replace traditional shopping completely? Explain your view.
Guiding Prompts
1
State clearly whether you believe online shopping will completely replace traditional shopping, or coexist with it.
2
If you think it will replace, discuss one massive advantage online shopping has (e.g., price, variety, convenience).
3
If you think they will coexist, discuss one critical feature traditional shopping has (e.g., trying things on, social interaction, instant purchase).
4
In your conclusion, what kinds of products or businesses do you think will never be completely replaced by online sales?
10
Unit 10 Β· No Limits
Technology allows people to learn a lot on their own. However, some people believe it is impossible to become an expert without a university education. What is your opinion? Give reasons.
Guiding Prompts
1
State your position: Do you believe a degree is absolutely necessary for expertise, or is it just one possible path?
2
If you support university education, list one skill or opportunity (e.g., formal feedback, specialized facilities, networking) that is very difficult to get on your own.
3
Think of one expert field (e.g., coding, art, entrepreneurship) where someone can succeed through self-learning. Explain how.
4
In your conclusion, explain what quality (e.g., discipline, formal training, passion) you think is most important for becoming an expert.
11
Unit 11 Β· Connections
Social media helps people stay connected with friends and family. However, others argue it makes people less social in real life. What is your opinion on this statement?
Guiding Prompts
1
Do you agree more that social media is a tool for connection, or a barrier to real socialization?
2
Give one specific example supporting your view (e.g., connecting distant relatives vs. scrolling while at dinner with friends).
3
How can social media be used responsibly to enhance real-life social relationships rather than damage them?
4
What is one specific “digital boundary” you try to follow to maintain a healthy social balance?
12
Unit 12 Β· Experts
Many jobs today require specialized expert skills. In your opinion, is it better for students to choose a stable, common career path or a risky but passionate field? Explain your reasoning.
Guiding Prompts
1
Clearly state which path you believe is better for a student: choosing a stable career or a risky passion.
2
Explain the biggest benefit of the path you chose (e.g., financial safety, daily fulfillment).
3
Discuss one major drawback or risk associated with the path you chose.
4
Conclude by discussing if it is possible to combine these two ideas (finding a stable job within your passionate field).
