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Task 2BeginnerTarget Band 5.5–6.0

Discussion Essay Template

A balanced structure that clearly states both sides of an argument before offering a final, simple opinion.

Paragraph Structure

Introduction

Some people think Side A. Other people think Side B. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

Introduce the debate clearly and state what the essay will do.

Body Paragraph 1 (Side A)

On the one hand, people like Side A because Reason. For example, Example. This shows why Side A is a popular idea.

Discuss the first side. Give one clear reason and an example.

Body Paragraph 2 (Side B + Opinion)

On the other hand, I think Side B is better. This is because Reason. For instance, Example.

Discuss the second side and clearly state that this is your opinion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both sides have reasons, but I think Side B is the best choice because Summary.

Summarize and pick a side definitively.

Useful Phrases

Some people think...
In this essay, I will discuss both sides...
On the one hand...
For example...
On the other hand...
This is because...
In conclusion...
I think Side B is the best choice because...

Sample Band 9 Answer

Some people think university education should be free for everyone. Other people think students should pay for their higher education. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my opinion. On the one hand, people like the idea of free education because it helps poor students. If university is free, everyone has the same chance to get a good job. For example, in countries like Germany, students do not pay tuition fees, and many poor youths become successful doctors or engineers. This shows why free universities are a popular idea. On the other hand, I think paying for university is better. This is because universities need money, and if education is free, taxes will be very high. Furthermore, when students pay, they study harder because they do not want to waste their own or their parents' money. For instance, students who take loans often get the highest grades because they are serious. In conclusion, both sides have good reasons, but I think students should pay for university. This is the best choice because it keeps the quality of education high and stops taxes from increasing for everyone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Only discussing one side

If the prompt says 'Discuss both sides', and you only write about what you believe, your Task Response score will be penalized.

Fix: Allocate one full body paragraph to Side A, and one full body paragraph to Side B.

Forgetting to give your opinion

Most discussion prompts end with '...and give your opinion'. Skipping this will limit your score to Band 5.

Fix: State your opinion in Body Paragraph 2 explicitly, and reiterate it in the conclusion.

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Discussion Essay (Beginner) - IELTS Writing Template