Task 2IntermediateBand 7.0–7.5

Discussion Essay Template

An effective format for objectively analyzing two opposing views while gradually weaving your own stance into the argument.

Paragraph Structure

Step-by-step breakdown

Introduction

People hold differing views regarding Topic. While some argue that Side A, others believe that Side B. This essay will discuss both perspectives before explaining why I favor the latter.

Use advanced phrasing to outline the debate and clearly state which side you favor from the start.

Body Paragraph 1 (Side A)

Those who advocate for Side A argue that Point. This is primarily because Detail. For example, Example. However, this approach may lead to Small criticism.

Objectively present Side A, but add a soft criticism at the end to prepare for your own opinion.

Body Paragraph 2 (Side B)

Conversely, others maintain that Side B is a superior approach. The main advantage is Point. From my perspective, this is a more sustainable solution because Reason. A good illustration of this is Example.

Present Side B enthusiastically and explicitly align yourself with it.

Conclusion

To summarize, while Side A has its merits regarding Positive aspect, I believe that Side B offers more significant long-term benefits because Summary of why.

Conclude by acknowledging both sides but heavily favoring your chosen side.

High-Scoring Vocabulary

Plug-and-play phrases

People hold differing views regarding...

This essay will discuss both perspectives before...

Those who advocate for Side A argue that...

This is primarily because...

Conversely, others maintain that...

From my perspective...

A good illustration of this is...

To summarize, while Side A has its merits...

Sample Answer

Model Band 9.0 Response

Band 9.0

People hold differing views regarding how to fund tertiary education. While some argue that universities should be completely free, others believe that students must cover the costs. This essay will discuss both perspectives before explaining why I favor the latter approach. Those who advocate for free university education argue that it creates a perfectly equal society. This is primarily because it removes financial barriers, allowing talented youths from impoverished backgrounds to access elite careers. For example, Scandinavian countries provide free higher education, which significantly reduces the wealth gap. However, this approach may lead to exorbitant taxation, placing a heavy burden on the working middle class. Conversely, others maintain that charging tuition fees is a superior approach. The main advantage is that it provides universities with the massive funding required to conduct cutting-edge research and hire top-tier professors. From my perspective, this is a more sustainable solution because it also makes students fiercely value their education. When individuals invest their own money into a degree, they are statistically less likely to drop out or miss classes. A good illustration of this is the competitive nature of American universities, where high tuition fees correspond to high graduation rates and global university rankings. To summarize, while free education has its merits regarding social mobility, I believe that requiring students to pay tuition offers more significant long-term benefits because it maintains the high quality of institutions and fosters a serious academic work ethic.

Common Mistakes

Traps to avoid

Mixing opinions in the wrong paragraph

Writing about Side B in the Side A paragraph confuses the reader and lowers the Coherence score.

Fix: Keep the paragraphs strictly separated. BP1 is ONLY about Side A. BP2 is ONLY about Side B.

Using 'I think' too many times

Repetitive use of 'I think' makes the essay sound like spoken English, not academic writing.

Fix: Use phrases like 'From my perspective', 'I maintain that', or 'It is my belief that'.

Premium Template

This Band 9 template is reserved for Premium members. Upgrade to unlock all IELTS writing templates and instant AI evaluations.

Ready to score Band 8.0+?

Write your essay using this exact structure and get instant, highly-accurate AI feedback across all four IELTS band descriptors.

Start Writing Now

Related Templates

Beginner

Opinion Essay

A straightforward, easy-to-remember structure that ensures you answer the prompt clearly without overcomplicating the grammar.

View Template

Intermediate

Opinion Essay

A balanced and logically flowing structure utilizing solid linking words and clear topic sentences to secure a Band 7.

View Template

Band 9

Opinion Essay

A sophisticated analytical structure that concedes a minor counter-point before decisively proving your main argument with high-level vocabulary.

View Template