APTIS Expressing and Justifying Opinions 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A candidate is asked: 'Should governments ban fast food advertising to children?' Which opening is most appropriate?
- Yes, ban it now!
- From my perspective, there are strong arguments for restricting such advertising, because... (Correct answer)
- I don't know anything about this topic.
- That depends on who you ask.
Correct answer: From my perspective, there are strong arguments for restricting such advertising, because...
'From my perspective' clearly signals a personal opinion and is followed by a justification, demonstrating both required skills.
Question 2: Which sentence best demonstrates the skill of 'giving and justifying opinions' in APTIS?
- Many people like sports.
- Personally, I believe team sports are beneficial for children, as they teach cooperation and discipline. (Correct answer)
- Sports can be good or bad.
- Some say sports are important.
Correct answer: Personally, I believe team sports are beneficial for children, as they teach cooperation and discipline.
This sentence uses a personal opinion marker, states a clear position, and supports it with two reasons.
Question 3: In APTIS speaking Part 4 (extended response), what is the recommended length for a justified opinion?
- A single word answer.
- One short sentence.
- Several sentences that include a viewpoint and supporting arguments. (Correct answer)
- As many sentences as possible, even if off-topic.
Correct answer: Several sentences that include a viewpoint and supporting arguments.
Part 4 requires extended responses with a clear viewpoint and supporting arguments to score well.
Question 4: Which phrase is used to concede a point while still maintaining your overall opinion?
- I completely agree with everything.
- Admittedly, there are some drawbacks, but overall I still believe... (Correct answer)
- I have no opinion on this matter.
- You are absolutely right, and I was wrong.
Correct answer: Admittedly, there are some drawbacks, but overall I still believe...
'Admittedly' concedes a limitation while the clause 'but overall I still believe' maintains the speaker's position.
Question 5: You are asked whether technology makes people less social. Which response most effectively expresses and justifies an opinion?
- Technology is everywhere these days.
- I would say it depends on how technology is used; for instance, video calls can actually strengthen long-distance relationships. (Correct answer)
- Maybe yes, maybe no.
- Lots of people use technology.
Correct answer: I would say it depends on how technology is used; for instance, video calls can actually strengthen long-distance relationships.
This response gives a nuanced position and justifies it with a specific, concrete example.
Question 6: Which of the following best describes a 'justified opinion' in English language testing?
- An opinion stated without any explanation.
- A personal view supported by reasons, examples, or evidence. (Correct answer)
- A fact copied from a reliable source.
- An opinion that everyone agrees with.
Correct answer: A personal view supported by reasons, examples, or evidence.
A justified opinion combines a personal viewpoint with supporting reasoning or examples.
Question 7: Which phrase is most useful for introducing a personal example to support your opinion?
- In contrast...
- To take a personal example... (Correct answer)
- On the contrary...
- Nevertheless...
Correct answer: To take a personal example...
'To take a personal example' signals that you are about to provide a first-hand experience as supporting evidence.
APTIS Expressing and Justifying Opinions 3
A candidate is asked: 'Should governments ban fast food advertising to children?' Which opening is most appropriate?