This document provides instructions for writing a discussion essay that presents arguments both for and against a topic without taking a stance. It should be divided into four paragraphs: an introduction outlining the topic without opinion, two body paragraphs each giving multiple justified arguments for one side and then the other, and a conclusion that summarizes the discussion and states the author's opinion. The body paragraphs should be well-balanced and use connectors to link ideas. The conclusion restates the topic and gives a reasoned statement of the author's position. Formal language without contractions is required.

1. A Discussion Essay
A For and Against Essay

2. WHAT IS A DISCUSSION ESSAY?
• In a discussion essay, you present two sides of
an argument.
• It is divided into four clear paragraphs:
Introduction
Arguments in favour of the statement
Arguments against the statement
Conclusion

3. INTRODUCTION.
You start with a general sentence about the topic. Make sure that your
introduction helps to explain the statement in the title.
You can include: Statistics / A rhetoric question? /A strong statement
You need to grab the attention of the reader! (read the introduction to
the essay on page 28 book)
You can finish your introduction with expressions to present a balance
argument
People have different opinions/views on this subject.
There are positive and negative aspects of... (noun /gerund: replacing
doctors with robots / using drones personally)
There are advantages and disadvantages to ... (noun /gerund: being a
vegetarian / making hunting illegal)
There are arguments for and against.... (noun/gerund: this issue /
banning personal drones)
There are two sides to the argument.
• *IMPORTANT: You never give your opinion in the introduction.

4. BODY: Two well balanced paragraphs
PARAGRAPH 2: Arguments in favour of the statement
Give two of three points in favour
PARAGRAPH 3: Arguments against the statement
Give two of three points against
IMPORTANT: Justify the points you present with examples / reasons...
Use connectors to link your ideas
(read paragraphs 2 and 3 of the essay on page 28 of the book and note
connectors
-to list ideas:
- to introduce arguments for or against:
- to add more points to the same topic:
-to introduce examples:
-to make contrasting points:
IMPORTANT: Your arguments for and against should be well balanced.
You never give your opinion in paragraphs 2 or 3

5. CONCLUSION
Summarise your ideas and give your opinion on
the topic, give a reason for your opinion.
Include connectors:
To conclude
To give your opinion: I strongly feel / It seems
clear to me that.... / I am convinced that....

6. VERY IMPORTANT
An essay is a formal piece of writing. Therefore,
you should:
-avoid informal language
-avoid contractions