A DISCUSSION ESSAY

We write a discussion essay when we want to present a balanced argument, giving points for and against a topic. We give our own opinion at the end of the essay.

Structure

1. Introductory paragraph: we write a statement that explains the topic. It is also common to start with a question or a good example. Then we say there are arguments for and against this idea.

2. Second paragraph: give the points "for" the topic or advantages.

3. Third paragraph: give the points "against" the topic or disadvantages.

4. Last paragraph: sum up the arguments and give a conclusion.


See an example of a task (British Council) 

'As English is now the world language and an essential skill in business, English language instruction should begin in kindergarten.'

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Present your ideas and opinions with examples where necessary.

You should write 250 words

Dealing with the task

Step 1: Question Analysis

First, let's analyse the question. Think about the keywords and clarify what they mean.

World language – is English the world language? If so, what gives it this status? How is it used globally? Are there any alternative global languages?

Essential – Does everyone really need to speak English? Are there jobs where it is not necessary? Can all prominent people in society speak it well?

Kindergarten – Is this the best time to start? What are the advantages and disadvantages of starting to learn English this early?

Step 2: Brainstorming

Now, decide whether you are for the opinion (you agree that English should be taught in Kindergarten) or against the opinion (you disagree) and make notes of your ideas. Often it is a good idea to explore both sides of the argument. Also, try and think of real-life examples that prove your point

Read through the following notes. Are they for or against the idea?

1. Other languages are more widely spoken than English
2. English is regarded as the international business language
3. Many multinationals use English as their corporate language
4. Other languages are also used in business
5. Foreign executives in China are being required to learn Chinese
6. English is used in higher education, even in non-English speaking countries
7. Learning English in Kindergarten could help students become bi-lingual
8. Languages represent culture and should be preserved
9. Young children haven’t fully mastered their first language and will be very confused
10. Young children are very receptive to new language

Step 3: Planning

Now that you have some ideas you can plan the layout of your essay. Think about what you want the main point of each paragraph to be. With this type of question a very straightforward paragraph plan is as follows. Useful language is in italics.

1: Introduction

Explain the background of the issue
In recent years; Nowadays; Over the past twenty years…

2: For

Arguments in favour of introducing English tuition in kindergarten (one or two paragraphs)
Some people think; They say; It’s true that …

3: Against

Arguments against doing this (one or two paragraphs)
On the other hand; Other people would argue; One example of this is …

4: Conclusion

Your own personal opinion based on all the arguments
Overall; Having looked at both sides; In conclusion …

Step 4: Writing

The following essay is a response to the task, but the paragraphs mixed-up. Can you put them in the correct order?

(Notice the opening phrases used to link the ideas together.)

	A It's true that English is very important in international business, and many multinational companies use English as their corporate language. It is also very important in terms of educational opportunities, with many universities now teaching courses in English even in non-English speaking countries, not to mention the information and entertainment available from global media such as Hollywood movies and the Internet. Many people feel that teaching children English from a young age gives children the opportunity to become bi-lingual which would provide them with many advantages in the future. Pre-school children are also obviously very receptive to new language. B However, the real issue is whether children of kindergarten age are mentally ready to start learning a foreign language. It stands to reason that a child who has not mastered their mother tongue will be very confused by exposure to a second unrelated form of communication. C Having looked at both sides of this issue, it seems clear that, although English is very important, educators need to think carefully about the child’s overall development when deciding when to introduce English into the curriculum. Doing this too early could result in children being proficient in neither language, and there are also issues of cultural identity that need to be considered.   D Nowadays, many people regard English as the main world language and it is certainly true that it is a very important tool for communication between people from different countries. Because of this, many kindergartens now offer English language instruction to children as young as 3, but this the really the best age to start learning a foreign language? E On the other hand, some people might argue that it is a mistake for children’s education to focus exclusively on English, particularly as there are other languages, such as Chinese and Spanish that are more widely spoken. In an increasingly multi-polar world other languages clearly have a role to play, for example this week it has been reported that all new foreign executives in China will be required to pass a Chinese proficiency exam. Others would also argue that language represents culture, and that by putting too much emphasis on one language we risk diluting other languages and cultures.

Follow THIS LINK to see another example and some useful language.