Debate
Questions
(Beginner Level) – Is it better to cook at home or eat at a restaurant? Why?
(Intermediate Level) – Should restaurants be required to list calorie counts on their menus?
(Advanced Level) – In the future, do you think robots will replace human waiters in restaurants? Why or why not?
SAMPLE ANSWERS:
Is it better to cook at home or eat at a restaurant? Why?
For cooking at home:
“I think it’s better to cook at home because it’s cheaper. When you cook at home, you can buy ingredients in bulk and control how much you use. Also, you know exactly what goes into your food, so it’s healthier.”
“Cooking at home is better because you can make exactly what you want. If you don’t like something in a restaurant meal, you can’t change it. At home, you’re the chef!”
For eating at a restaurant:
“I think eating at a restaurant is better because it’s easier. You don’t have to worry about grocery shopping or cleaning up. Plus, you can try new foods that you might not know how to cook.”
“Going to a restaurant is better because it’s a fun social experience. You can spend time with friends and family and enjoy a meal together without any stress.”
Intermediate Level: Should restaurants be required to list calorie counts on their menus?
Should restaurants be required to list calorie counts on their menus?
For requiring calorie counts:
“Yes, restaurants should be required to list calorie counts. This would help people make informed choices about what they eat. Many people are trying to be healthier, and knowing the calorie content can help them stick to their goals. It also promotes transparency from the restaurants. Requiring calorie counts can help address public health concerns. Obesity is a major issue, and providing calorie information could encourage people to choose lower-calorie options. This is a good way to give people the tools to take better care of themselves.”
Against requiring calorie counts:
“No, restaurants should not be required to list calorie counts. It could create unnecessary pressure and anxiety around food, which can lead to unhealthy eating habits. Also, calorie counts are not always accurate, and they don’t tell the whole story about a meal’s nutritional value.”
“It could hurt small businesses. They may not have the resources to accurately calculate and display calorie information, which could put them at a disadvantage compared to larger chains. Also people should be able to make their own choices without the government forcing information on them.”
In the future, do you think robots will replace human waiters in restaurants? Why or why not?
For robots replacing human waiters:
“Yes, I think robots will increasingly replace human waiters. Technology is advancing rapidly, and robots can perform many waiter tasks efficiently, such as taking orders, delivering food, and processing payments. This could lead to faster service and reduced labor costs for restaurants. Furthermore, robots do not make errors related to human fatigue.”
“Robots can offer consistent service, which is a major advantage. They won’t have bad days or get tired. They can also collect and analyze data about customer preferences, which could help restaurants improve their menus and service. In a world that is moving towards automation, it is a very logical step.”
Against robots replacing human waiters:
“No, I don’t think robots will completely replace human waiters. While robots can handle some tasks, they lack the human touch and emotional intelligence that are essential for good service. Human waiters can provide personalized recommendations, handle complex situations, and create a welcoming atmosphere. The social interaction is an important part of the dining experience.”
“There will always be a demand for personalized service and human connection in restaurants. Robots can’t replace the empathy and problem-solving skills of a human waiter. Plus, many people enjoy the social aspect of dining out, which includes interacting with friendly staff. There will always be a place for human waiters in fine dining, and many other restaurant types.”