FOR AND AGAINST ESSAYSAdapted from Successful Writing Intermediate

DEFINITION

For and against essays are one type of argumentative writing in which you

discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a specific topic.

STRUCTUREINTRODUCTION: O- Paragraph 1: present the topic, making a general remark about it and explaining

the context, the situation.- Paragraph 2: present the position you are going to discuss, without expressions of

your personal opinion.

MAIN BODY

- Paragraph 3: arguments for, with justifications /examples. RE

- Paragraph 4: arguments against, with justifications/examples RE

CONCLUSION

- Paragraph 4: include your opinion or a balanced summary of the topic. O

BE CAREFUL! - You must not include opinion words: “I believe”, “I think”, “My opinion is”…… in the introduction or the main body. Opinion words can only be used in the final paragraph, where you may state your opinion on the topic.

- For and against essays are normally written in a formal style; therefore you should avoid using strong language:”

“I know”, “I am sure”…….short sentences, colloquial expressions or idioms.

TOPIC/STARTER SENTENCESYou should start each main body paragraph with a topic/starter sentence which introduces or summarises the main topic of the paragraph.

The topic/starter sentence should be followed by supporting sentences which justify the argument presented in the topic sentence, by giving examples or reasons.

You should use linking words/phrases to present your justifications, such as: first of all, what is more, for example, etc..

Topic/ starter sentences

Supporting sentences

Supporting sentences

TECHNIQUES TO BEGIN OR END YOUR ESSAY

To attract the reader’s interest and make the beginning or ending of your essay more effective, you can use some of the following writing techniques:a) Address the reader directly: If you take the time to train your dog, it will learn to obey you. b) Include a quotation (i.e. A sentence or phrase taken from a

book play, etc.) When we use a quotation, it is necessary to mention the name of the person who said/wrote it.

c) Include a rhetorical question: Is it true that a dog is man’s best friend?

QUOTATION

SENTENCES TO FINISHYou should finish your text with a clear final paragraph with a finishing sentence which summarises the main topic of the first paragraph and clearly states your opinion on the topic.

Now…YOU!

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