REFUSE & RECYCLING

Match each utterance with its conversational function.

Choose the correct function from the list for each question.

No.Conversational function
1Asking opinion
2Delaying
3Presenting arguments
4Opinion
5Agreeing
6Disagreeing
7Countering
8Logical argument
9Clarification
10Solutions
11Suggestions
12Complaining
13Apologising

1. Could you clarify what you mean by ‘recyclable’? Does that include items that need to be taken to a special recycling point?

2. There are several reasons for recycling more: it reduces waste, saves resources and can reduce the amount sent to landfill or incineration.

3. I suggest that the council should explain the recycling rules on its website and in local newsletters.

4. I do apologise. I put the wrong type of material in the recycling bin because I misunderstood the collection instructions.

5. Another possibility would be to provide households with clearer recycling guides.

6. Well, I’m not sure. There are advantages and disadvantages to the current system.

7. If collection systems are simple, people are more likely to use them correctly.

8. I agree. Clearer information would make things much easier.

9. That may be true, but recycling is not always straightforward when packaging contains several different materials.

10. I don’t really agree. Households should not be expected to separate waste into too many different categories.

11. I think recycling would work better if people had clearer information about what can and cannot be recycled.

12. What’s your opinion of the way household waste is collected in our area?

13. I’m sorry, but there’s a problem with our refuse collection.