7
Higher /Intermediate 2

Higher /Intermediate 2. What is a Discursive Essay? A discursive essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: Higher /Intermediate 2. What is a Discursive Essay? A discursive essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points

Higher /Intermediate 2

Page 2: Higher /Intermediate 2. What is a Discursive Essay? A discursive essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points

What is a Discursive Essay?

A discursive essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points of view.

You should present both sides in a fair way by discussing them objectively and in equal detail.

The tone should be formal, restrained but friendly.

Page 3: Higher /Intermediate 2. What is a Discursive Essay? A discursive essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points

Contents?

• A good essay of this type should consist of:

• An introductory paragraph in which you clearly state the topic to be discussed.

Page 4: Higher /Intermediate 2. What is a Discursive Essay? A discursive essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points

Contents?

• the main body of the essay in which the points for and against along with evidence, examples or reasons are presented in separate paragraphs.

• Good organisation of your material is extremely important at this stage.

Page 5: Higher /Intermediate 2. What is a Discursive Essay? A discursive essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points

Structure / Content

• You must make sure that you link ideas effectively in the course of your essay.

• Topic sentences must introduce the main subject area that will be discussed more fully in the remainder of the paragraph.

• Remember to use evidence to support what you say. This is extremely important in the main body of your essay.

Page 6: Higher /Intermediate 2. What is a Discursive Essay? A discursive essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points

Conclusion

• A closing paragraph in which you state your own opinion or give a balanced consideration of the topic.

• You should sum up the arguments you have already covered and state, whether on balance, you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages or vice-versa.

Page 7: Higher /Intermediate 2. What is a Discursive Essay? A discursive essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points

• When writing a discursive essay you must support what you say with strong evidence. Therefore, researching your chosen topic thoroughly is extremely important.

• Good sources may include:

• Internet, newspapers, magazines, pressure group materials, library, etc.

• Look out for BIAS when reading through your information.

• Keep a note of exactly where you find each piece of evidence.