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Vicious circle

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(from Successful Writing by Virginia Evans)

Opinion Essays

An opinion essay is a formal piece of writing. It requires your opinion on a topic. That opinion must be stated clearly.

Plan/Outline

Introduction
Paragraph 1 : It should state the subject and your opinion.

Main Body
Several paragraphs :  Each presenting a separate reasoned viewpoint. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence summarising what the paragraph is about. Also include a paragraph with an opposing viewpoint and why you think it is not a convincing argument.

Conclusion
Final Paragraph : Restate your opinion (using different words)


Do:
- Use a formal, impersonal style.
- Introduction stated the topic clearly.
- Use clear topic sentences to introduce the subject of each paragraph.
- Write well developed paragraphs giving reasons and examples.
- Use linking words and phrases.
- Use generalisations (e.g. most developed countries)
- Use quotations if possible.
- Give examples if possible.


Don't:
- Don't use short forms or informal colloquial language.
- Don't use very emotional language.
- Don't use unclear or irrelevant topic sentences.
- Don't use over-generalisation.
- Don't give personal examples.
- Don't use cliched expressions.



Some useful vocabulary:

In my opinion ...
It is my (firm) belief/opinion/view/conviction (that) ...
I (firmly) believe ...
I am (not) convinced that ...
It seems/appears to me that ...
As far as I am concerned ...
It strikes me that ...
I (definitely) feel/think that ...
I am inclined to believe ...