DISCUSSION ESSAY

• When do we write a discussion essay ?
• We write it when we want to present a balanced argument , giving points for and against a topic . We give our own opinion of at the end of the essay . 
• Structure
  • Introductory paragraph : Write a statement that explains the topic and say that there are arguments for and against this idea.
  • Second paragraph : give the points for the topic or the advantages
  • Third paragraph : give the points against the topic or the disadvantages .
  • Last paragraph : sum up the arguments and give your conclusion
• Content
  • Start by writing down a list of points for and against OR advantages and disadvantages .
  • Choose the easiest points to write about and group them into paragraphs .
  • Think of facts or ideas to support your arguments .
  • Use linkers to introduce your ideas and to make additional points .
• Useful language
  • Starting : Many people say …/ think that …/ It is true that …/ There are many reasons for …
  • Commenting on the question : This is not an easy question ./ There isn’t a clear answer …/ We must look at both sides of the question .
  • Introducing points : Firstly , …/ Secondly , …/ On the one hand , …/ One advantage is that …
  • Contrast : On the other hand , …/ However , …/ But …
• • Adding : What’s more, …/In addition , …/ Furthermore , …/ Moreover , …/ too / as well / also
  • Reason and result : This is because …/ Because …/So…/ Therefore
  • Concluding : On balance, …/In my opinion , …/In conclusion , …
• Sample
  • Nearly everyone thinks that they would like to be famous . However , there are also disadvanteges to being in the public eye . We must look at both sides of the question .
  • It is true that if you are famous people recognize you all the time and ask for your autograph . You belong to a special group of people and this can be fun . In addition to this , fame usually brings money . A very big advantage of being a celebrity is that you probably live in a fantastic house , drive a fast car and have holidays in wonderful places.
  • On the other hand , it is not always easy being a celebrity today . A major disadvantage is that it becomes difficult to have a private life . People come up to you in your home, on the beach , or after a late party ! What’s more, some people become obsessed with celebrities and follow them everywhere .
  • On balance, I think the life of a celebrity has disadvantages , but it also has a lot of attractions . I would like to have the opportunity to try it .