What Is an Opinion Essay?
The question asks: To what extent do you agree or disagree? You must state your opinion clearly and support it throughout.
Trying to “be balanced” when the question asks for your view. You CAN partially agree — but you must be clear about where you stand. Vague, fence-sitting responses score Band 5 maximum on Task Achievement.
The Recommended Structure
Introduction (50–60 words)
- Paraphrase the topic (1 sentence)
- State your position clearly (1 sentence)
It is often argued that young people should spend a year working before starting university. While I understand the appeal of this view, I firmly believe that entering higher education directly after school is the more beneficial path for most students.
Body Paragraph 1 — Your Main Argument
Use the PEEL method:
- Point: state your argument clearly
- Explain: say why this is true
- Example: give a specific illustration
- Link: connect back to the thesis
Weak: There are many reasons why this is a good idea. Strong: The primary benefit of this approach is that it equips young people with real-world skills that formal education cannot provide.
Always name the specific reason in the topic sentence.
Body Paragraph 2 — Second Argument
Same PEEL structure. Develop a different point — do not repeat the same argument.
Conclusion (30–40 words)
Restate your position. Brief summary. No new ideas.
Vocabulary for Opinion Essays
| Function | Phrases |
|---|---|
| Strong agreement | I firmly believe / It is my conviction that |
| Partial agreement | While I accept that X, I argue that Y… |
| Disagreement | I would argue that the opposite is true |
| Introducing evidence | Research indicates / Studies suggest / Evidence shows |
| Conceding a point | Although X is true, this does not mean that… |
No contractions: do not (not don’t). No slang: individuals (not people). Limit first-person: use “I” in the introduction and conclusion only, not in every sentence.
Consistent Position Rule
State your position in the introduction and never contradict it. Examiners specifically check for consistency of position across the whole essay. Changing your mind halfway through is a serious Task Achievement error.
Your opinion does not need to be the “right” answer. The examiner does not care what you think — only how well you argue it.