Essay Writing

For & Against Essays

A “for & against” 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.
A good essay of this type should consist of:
a) An introductory paragraph in which you clearly state the topic to be discussed, without giving your opinion;b) A main body in which the points for & against along with your justifications, examples or reasons are presented in separate paragraphs; and
c) A closing paragraph in which you state your opinion or give a balanced consideration of the topic.
Note: Opinion words (I think, I believe, In my opinion, etc.) can only be used in the closing paragraph where you give your opinion on the topic.Points to consider

❖ Before you start writing your essay you should make a list of the points for & against.
❖ Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence which summarises the topic of the paragraph.
e.g. In addition, many people feel reading is a relaxing and worthwhile activity.
❖ Do not use informal style (e.g. short forms, colloquial language, etc.) orstrong language to express your opinion (e.g. I know …, etc.). Express your opinion in a non-emotional way (e.g. It seems that, I therefore feel …, etc.).
❖ Well-known quotations relevant to the topic you are writing about will make your composition more interesting. For example, if you are writing an essay on education, a quotation you may include is: “Education is a progressive discovery of yourown ignorance.” (Will Durant)
Note: Although these are balanced arguments, if you feel that either the for or against side is stronger and should be supported, this side should be presented in paragraphs 4 & 5, thus leading the reader to your conclusion.

Structure
Introduction
Paragraph 1
State topic (summary of the topic without giving your opinion)
Main bodyParagraphs 2 & 3
Arguments for and justifications, examples, and/or reasons
Paragraphs 4 & 5
Arguments against and justification, examples, and/or reasons
Conclusion
Final paragraph
Balanced consideration/ your opinion directly or indirectly
Useful expressions and kinking words/phrases

❖ To list points:
Firstly, First of all, In the first place, To begin/startwith,
Secondly, Thirdly, Finally

❖ To list advantages:
One/Another/A further/An additional (major) advantage of … is …
The main/greatest/first advantage of … is …

❖ To list disadvantages:
One/Another/A further/An additional (major) disadvantage/drawback of …
The main/greatest/most serious/first disadvantage / drawback of …
Another negativeaspect of …

❖ To introduce points/arguments for & against:
One (very convincing) point/argument in favour of … / against …,
A further common criticism of … / It could be argued that …,
|It is |often |claimed/suggested |that … |
| |widely |argued/maintained/| |
| |generally |felt/believe/held | |

|some/many/ |claim/suggest/argue/feel that … |
|most people/experts/ |maintain/believe/point out/agree/hold that …|
|scientists/sceptics/ | |
|critics | |
| |advocate (+ing/noun)/support the view that … |...