Writing
Write on opinion essay on the following issue “Regional talk and identity”.
NOTE! Discursive essays are formal in style. In this type of essay, the writer focuses on various aspects of the topic in turn. Some possible aspects to be considered are set out in the "discussion clock" on this page (moral, political, social, etc.). Each viewpoint is supported by examples. Opposing viewpoints should be mentioned as well. These essays do not aim to persuade the reader that the writer's opinion is the only valid one, but to make him/her consider a current issue from various angles, allowing him/her to form his/her own opinion or expand on the viewpoints already mentioned.
THE STRUCTURE OF Discursive essay
A good discursive essay should consist of: a) an introduction in which you state the topic, explaining the current or past situation; b) a main body consisting of two or more paragraphs, in each of which a viewpoint is discussed along with the opposing viewpoint; and c) a conclusion in which you summarise the topic by making a general comment about it. Your opinion can also be included. |
Introduction state the topic Main Body Paragraph 2 first viewpoint and opposing argument Paragraph 3 * second viewpoint and opposing argument Conclusion summarise topic, making general comments, and/or giving your opinion * The main body can consist of more than two paragraphs depending on the number of viewpoints you want to talk about |
Points to consider
When considering a topic, bear in mind the "discussion clock". This will help you decide on what viewpoints to mention in the essay. Each topic can be seen from various viewpoints.
Discussion clock
Before writing your discursive essay, decide on the viewpoints you will mention. Keep in mind that you cannot approach a topic through all the aspects presented in the discussion clock. The various aspects illustrated are there to help you plan your essay.
Remember that for each viewpoint you have thought of, there is an opposing argument. Think of the opposing arguments while planning your essay.
Join the opposing viewpoints with appropriate linking words such as however, on the other hand, on the contrary, and contrary to.
Avoid using simplistic words. Instead, use more sophisticated vocabulary.
Useful Language for Discursive essays
To bring up other points or aspects: as far as, regarding, as for, with regard to
To make contrasting points: yet, however, nevertheless, although, in spite, of,
despite, while, on the other hand, it is argued that, opponents of this view say, there are people who oppose, contrary to what people believe
To conclude: all in all, to sum up, in my opinion, in my view, to my mind
To express reality: in fact, as a matter of fact, in practice, the fact is