IELTS Discussion Essays (Discuss Both Views)
The IELTS Discussion Essay asks you to: "Discuss both views and give your opinion." This is a dual-task prompt. You must present the arguments for both opposing perspectives fairly and in equal depth, while also presenting your own clear stance. Candidates frequently fail because they focus heavily on their preferred view while only writing a sentence or two about the opposing view.
Model Answers & Breakdowns (9)
What are the health risks associated with insufficient physical exercise in today's society, and what measures can be taken to address these challenges?
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the use of artificial intelligence in the arts, particularly regarding generative art creation and copyright law issues.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of globalized clothing trends.
What are the causes and potential solutions for the decline of biodiversity in ecosystems?
What are the causes of the rising crime rates in urban areas, and what effective solutions can be implemented to tackle this issue?
What are the problems caused by the extinction of endangered languages, and what measures can be taken to ensure their preservation?
Some people believe that museums and art galleries should have no admission fees to ensure accessibility for all, while others argue that such cultural institutions should charge for entry to cover their operating costs. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
What are the causes of youth unemployment, and what solutions can be implemented, particularly focusing on effective career guidance?
Discuss both views regarding the taxation of unhealthy foods and provide your opinion.
Band 9 Essay Structure
1. Introduction
- Sentence 1: Paraphrase the prompt (outline the debate between the two groups).
- Sentence 2: Stance statement (clearly state which perspective you believe is correct).
- Sentence 3: Outline (indicate that this essay will discuss both viewpoints).
2. Body Paragraph 1 (Side A Analysis)
- Topic Sentence: State the main argument supporting the first perspective.
- Explanation: Explain why proponents hold this view.
- Example: Provide a supporting example.
- Link: Synthesize how this view plays out.
3. Body Paragraph 2 (Side B + Your View)
- Topic Sentence: Present the second viewpoint and explicitly align yourself with it.
- Explanation: Explain why you find this side more convincing.
- Example: Support with a relevant example.
- Link: Reiterate the superior strength of Side B.
4. Conclusion
- Sentence 1: Summary (summarize the key arguments from both sides).
- Sentence 2: Final Stance (reiterate your personal opinion clearly).
Examiner Key Advice
Do not use first-person pronouns in the body paragraph discussing the view you disagree with. Frame it objectively: "Advocates of this stance argue that..." or "Proponents contend...". Save personal markers like "From my perspective" for your own viewpoint paragraph and the conclusion.
Spend equal time writing about both viewpoints. Balanced paragraph sizes are critical for a high Task Response score.
Use contrast connectors like "On the one hand", "On the other hand", "Conversely", and "Nevertheless" to show transitions.
Clearly declare your chosen side in the introduction. Waiting until the conclusion to state your opinion can cost Task Response marks.
Related Resources & Guides
What are the causes of the decline in interest in scientific careers among students, and what actions can be taken to inspire more students to pursue these professions? Discuss both aspects in detail.
Discuss the impact of fast-paced consumer cultures and the rising popularity of minimalism. What are the benefits and drawbacks of each approach?
The increasing global prevalence of the English language has raised significant discussions regarding its effects. While some believe it acts as a bridge for international communication and commerce, others express concerns about the potential diminishing effect on native cultures. Discuss both perspectives and provide your opinion.
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