Discussion Essays

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Discussion Essays

In discussion essays, you have to discuss both sides of an argument. Usually, you will be asked for your own opinion as well.

The easiest way to approach this type of IELTS Task 2 question is to choose one point of view to agree with and one side to disagree with.

Here are 3 examples of discussion essay questions:

 
  • Some people think that the government should provide free education at every level.
    However, some say that individuals should pay for their university education.

    Discuss both views and give your opinion.

  • Many people believe that all zoos should be closed, while others claim that zoos have a positive impact.

    Discuss both views and give your opinion.

  • Many governments think that economic progress is their most important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country.

    Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

 

Key tips:

 
  • Develop both sides of the argument.
  • Talk about the view you don’t agree with first.

A big mistake many students make is to fully develop only one point of view. This leads to an unbalanced essay and a low score for task achievement. 

It is easier to begin by discussing the opinion you don’t agree with and then present the reasons for your opposing view.

 

Essay Structure

 

1) Introduction

  • Paraphrase the question
  • Give your opinion
  • State two supporting reasons

 

2) Main body paragraph 1 – Negative Viewpoint

  • Topic sentence – outline the view you don’t agree with
  • Explanation – explain why this view is held by some people
  • Example – give an example
 

3) Main body paragraph 2 – Positive Viewpoint

  • Topic sentence – outline the view you do agree with
  • Explanation – explain why this view is held by some people
  • Example – give an example

 

4) Conclusion

  • Summarise the key points and state your opinion