How to Write a Successful Discussion Essay on IELTS

There are several types of essays in the writing component of the IELTS exam. These include discussion essays, personal viewpoint essays, idea essays, and double-question essays.

This article seeks to explore in-depth discussion essays to help IELTS candidates ace the writing test.

What are discussion essays?

Discussion essays are essays that reflect two opposing views. The topic given should be looked at from two different perspectives.

There are several steps that an IELTS candidate should go through to produce a decent discussion essay.

How to write a good discussion essay

1. Understanding the writing prompt

IELTS takers should spend some time analyzing the writing prompt to address the question adequately. They should identify the topic and write about it. Any response that addresses the topic only tangentially will get a bad score in the Task Response criterion. The examinee should address the three parts of the question: (a) discussing the first view, (b) discussing the second view, (c) and giving their opinion. Let us consider the following writing prompt.

“Some people think that students must not use their cell phones in schools. Others, however, believe that these electronic gadgets can enhance students’ learning. Discuss both views and give your opinion.” In this example, the candidate should show why some people discourage the use of mobile phones in schools. Also, they need to show how these electronic gadgets can help students learn better. Finally, they should indicate their opinion. Any failure to address any part of the prompt will affect the candidate’s score.

2. Planning the response

Outlining the essay is a step that should not be neglected simply because writing is a reflection of our thinking. Outlining will help the examiner get your message across. An essay that has an ineffective plan will cause confusion among readers.

A) The introduction

Ideally, the introduction should comprise two elements.

i) A general statement

The general statement should present a clear idea about the topic. It will pave the way for the controversy dealt with in the essay’s main body.

ii) The controversy

The controversy is a statement that highlights both sides of the issue. The candidate has to paraphrase the writing prompt of the essay.

iii) The writer’s opinion

The candidate should clearly indicate their opinion in the last part of the introduction.

Let’s have a look at this sample introduction.

“Public opinion is divided on the issue of using cell phones inside schools. While a few individuals maintain that these electronic gadgets have detrimental effects on students, such as distraction and cheating in exams, I tend to support those who hold the view that smartphones are a powerful learning tool that may create a difference in student learning.”

B. The body

The candidate should write two main body paragraphs that highlight both views.

To be continued …