Group Discussion

 

Group Discussion 

What is a Group Discussion?

It is a formal discussion on a given topic among a group. 

The participants try to analyse the topic from their perspective and present their views and opinions. 

It is one of the effective methods of classroom learning. Through this the candidates (students) are tested for their knowledge and other communication skills as well as their ability to work as a part of a group.

You can contribute to a group discussion in some of the following ways: helping it start, giving direction to it, making sure that everyone's views are heard and thought about so that the group moves towards some kind of agreement and closing it with a summary or a conclusion.

Topics for Group Discussion:

a) Factual

b) A social or political issue

c) Abstract

d) Case study based.

Useful Expressions in a Group Discussion:

Expressing Opinions

I believe...........                                I think............

Could I make a point, please?        In my opinion...............

It seems to me..............

 Expressing  Agreement 

Absolutely                                            You are right..............

I fully agree with ..............

Expressing  Disagreement

I'm afraid I don't agree with........            I'm sorry but i see it a little differently.

I can see your point but..........                   You may have something there but.........

I respect your point of view, but I'm sorry I can't go along with you on..........

Suggesting

I think we should .................                            Why don't we............?

Let's..............                                                    Couldn't we................?

Don't you think we could.......................?

Asking for Opinion

What is your opinion on.......................?            What do you feel about............?

I wonder what do you think about.............?        I'd like to know your stand on............?

Interrupting

I’m sorry to interrupt but…. 

Excuse me. Could I add something, please?

That’s true. Sorry, but…..

Handling Interruptions

Just a moment please. Could I finish what I am saying?

If you would just let me finish……. Could you wait for a minute, please.

Concluding

To summarise/conclude,…… We can conclude by saying……

Let’s run quickly through the main ideas before concluding the discussion.