1.0 Planning and organizing

A good essay of this type should consist of:

1. an introductory paragraph in which you clearly state the topic. This means that you talk generally about the topic without giving your opinion;

2. a main body in which the points for and the points against, along with your justifications, examples or reasons are presented in separate paragraphs; and

3. a closing paragraph in which you give either your opinion or a balanced consideration of the topic.

NOTE: In this type of essay writing, you must NOT include opinion words (I believe, I think …) in the introduction or the main body. Opinion words can ONLY be used in the final paragraph where you give your opinion of the topic.

Plan 1

Introduction Paragraph 1 state topic (summary of the topic) without giving your opinion Main body Paragraph 2 arguments for, with justifications/examples and/or reasons Paragraph 3 arguments against, with justifications/examples and/or reasons Conclusion Final paragraph your opinion/balanced consideration

NOTE: If you feel that there are more arguments for than against a topic, give them before the final paragraph to lead the reader to the conclusion.

There is an alternative paragraph plan you may use when writing for and against essays. When following this plan you present both an argument in favour and the opposing viewpoint in the same paragraph.

Plan 2

Introduction Paragraph 1 state topic (summary of topic) without giving your opinion Main body Paragraph 2 first argument for and against Paragraph 3 second argument for and against Conclusion Final paragraph balanced consideration/ your opinion expressed directly/indirectly

NOTE: You may include more paragraphs in the main body if you wish to include more points.

1.1 Points to consider

• Before you start writing your essay you should make a list of the points for and against.

• Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence which summarises the topic of the paragraph.

• Write well-developed paragraphs in which the points you present are supported with justification, (i.e. reasons or examples). Make sure each paragraph has more than one sentence.

• Do not use informal style (e.g. short forms, colloquial language, etc.) or strong language to give your opinion (e.g. I know…, etc.). Express your opinion in a non-emotional way (e.g. It seems that, I therefore feel,… , etc.).

• Well-known quotations relevant to the topic you are writing about will make your composition more interesting.

• The essay would be extremely dull if you used the words like supporters and opponents all the way through. Similarly, it would be unimpressive if you only used the verb say to refer to people’s opinions.

• Apply techniques presented on p.16-18 to begin and end your essay.

(Successful Writing. Proficiency. St’s book. pp.60-69)

(Successful Writing. Upper-Intermediate. St’s book. p.64)