This document outlines the structure for a discursive essay taking sides on a topic. It recommends including an introduction, main body with the author's position and arguments supported by evidence in multiple paragraphs, acknowledgment of the other side's position in one paragraph, and a conclusion restating the author's view. The main body should clearly state if the author is for or against the topic and present at least three arguments with evidence to support their stance.

1. TAKING SIDES
A DISCURSIVE ESSAY

2. STRUCTURE
1. INTRODUCTION. Provide an interesting introduction.
2. MAIN BODY
a. Provide a clear indication of your position,
your position in relation to the topic (are you 'for' or
'against' ?).
 Present your first argument, with supporting
evidence.
 Present your second argument, with supporting
evidence.
 Present your third argument, with supporting
evidence, and so on (the number of paragraphs like
this will depend on the number of arguments you can
offer).

3. STRUCTURE (II)
 b. Indicate, in a single paragraph, that
there is another side to this argument,
with some idea of the points likely to be
made for the view(s) which are opposite
to your own.
3. CONCLUSION
Reiterate (state again) your
position and conclude your essay.