Recognising a Discussion Essay
The question will say: Discuss both views and give your own opinion. This is different from an opinion essay — you must cover both sides, and then state which you find more convincing.
If the question says “discuss both views,” writing only one view is a serious Task Achievement failure. Even if you strongly disagree with one side, you must present it fairly and develop it properly.
The Structure
Introduction
- Paraphrase the topic
- Acknowledge that there are two views
- State which view you personally find more convincing (optional but recommended)
People hold conflicting views about whether children should be taught in mixed-ability or streamed classrooms. While there are valid arguments on both sides, I believe that mixed-ability grouping ultimately benefits students more.
Body Paragraph 1 — View One
Present the first view objectively, with development and example.
Body Paragraph 2 — View Two (your preferred view)
Present the second view — ideally the one you agree with — with stronger development.
Put the view you AGREE with in Body Paragraph 2. This way, the last argument the examiner reads before your conclusion is the one you’re endorsing — making your position feel more convincing.
Conclusion
Summarise both views briefly and restate which you find more compelling.
Transitional Language for Both-Sides Writing
| Function | Phrases |
|---|---|
| Introducing View 1 | Those who argue that… / Proponents of X contend that… |
| Introducing View 2 | On the other hand, / Conversely, / Others maintain that… |
| Your view | Nevertheless, I believe… / Despite this, I would argue… |
| Conceding | While it is true that X, Y is ultimately more significant. |
Both body paragraphs should be roughly equal in length. A common error is writing 200 words for one side and 60 for the other — this suggests you do not understand the “both views” requirement.
Common Errors in Discussion Essays
- Making one paragraph much longer than the other (imbalance)
- Not stating your personal view at all (Task Achievement failure)
- Repeating the same argument twice with different words (lack of development)
A discussion essay is not a debate — it is an intelligent analysis of a topic where you demonstrate that you understand complexity, and then explain your own reasoned position.