“Memory is the seamstress, and a capricious one at that.”
― Virginia Woolf, Orlando
20191226
Successful Writing - Proficiency
Unit 6 Discursive Essays
For and Against Short Essays
A "for and against" essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points of view. A formal construct where both sides of the argument are considered. You should present both sides in a fair way by discussing them objectively and in equal detail.
Plan/Outline
Introduction
Paragraph 1 : Clearly state the topic, without giving your opinion.
Main Body
Paragraph 2-3 : Arguments for and justifications, reasons and/or examples.
Paragraph 4-5 : Arguments against and justifications, reasons and/or examples.
Conclusion
Final Paragraph : Balanced and considered reflection and/or personal opinion.
In the first paragraph, you should state the topic and you may include one or more of the following techniques.
In the last paragraph, you should state your opinion and/or give a balanced consideration of the topic and you may include one or more of the following techniques.
Unit 6 Discursive Essays
For and Against Short Essays
A "for and against" essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points of view. A formal construct where both sides of the argument are considered. You should present both sides in a fair way by discussing them objectively and in equal detail.
Plan/Outline
Introduction
Paragraph 1 : Clearly state the topic, without giving your opinion.
Main Body
Paragraph 2-3 : Arguments for and justifications, reasons and/or examples.
Paragraph 4-5 : Arguments against and justifications, reasons and/or examples.
Conclusion
Final Paragraph : Balanced and considered reflection and/or personal opinion.
In the first paragraph, you should state the topic and you may include one or more of the following techniques.
- Make reference to an unusual or striking idea/situation/scene
- Address the reader directly
- Start with a quotation or thought-provoking statement
In the last paragraph, you should state your opinion and/or give a balanced consideration of the topic and you may include one or more of the following techniques.
- Finish with a quotation
- Ask a rhetorical question
- Give the reader something to consider
Do:
- Use a formal, impersonal style.
- Use topic sentences to introduce the subject of each paragraph.
- Write well developed paragraphs giving reasons and examples
- Use generalisations (e.g. most developed countries)
- Use sequencing (e.g. firstly, secondly) and linking words/phrases (e.g. however, although)
- Make reference to other sources
- Use quotations
- Use topic sentences to introduce the subject of each paragraph.
- Write well developed paragraphs giving reasons and examples
- Use generalisations (e.g. most developed countries)
- Use sequencing (e.g. firstly, secondly) and linking words/phrases (e.g. however, although)
- Make reference to other sources
- Use quotations
Don't:
- Don't use short forms or informal colloquial language
- Don't use very emotional language
- Don't express personal opinions too strongly
- Don't use over-generalisation (e.g. all politicians are corrupt)
- Don't refer blindly to stats without accurate source
- Don't use cliches
- Don't use personal examples
Useful Vocabulary:
One major advantage of, A further advantage of, In addition, On the other hand, Moreover, Finally ...
- Don't use very emotional language
- Don't express personal opinions too strongly
- Don't use over-generalisation (e.g. all politicians are corrupt)
- Don't refer blindly to stats without accurate source
- Don't use cliches
- Don't use personal examples
Useful Vocabulary:
One major advantage of, A further advantage of, In addition, On the other hand, Moreover, Finally ...
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