Essay Type Guide & Samples
IELTS Discussion Essays (Discuss Both Views)
A discussion prompt explicitly asks you to discuss both views, followed by giving your opinion. Explain each perspective fairly across two distinct body paragraphs before concluding with a clear, decisive stance.
Band 9 Model Essays (4)
100% 4-Paragraph FormatBand 9.04 Paragraphs • ~285 words
Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others believe that children who are taught to cooperate rather than compete become more useful adults. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
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Band 9.04 Paragraphs • ~290 words
Some parents think that childcare centres provide the best services for children of preschool age. Other working parents think that family members such as grandparents are better caregivers for their young children. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
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Band 9.04 Paragraphs • ~273 words
In many countries, children are engaged in some kind of paid work. Some people regard this as completely wrong, while others consider it as valuable work experience. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
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Band 9.04 Paragraphs • ~251 words
Governments give lots of support to artists, even though some people think it is a waste of money that could have been spent better elsewhere. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
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4-Paragraph Structure Formula
1. Introduction
- Sentence 1: Paraphrase the prompt (outline the debate between the two groups).
- Sentence 2: Stance statement (clearly state your position early).
2. Body Paragraph 1 (First View)
- Topic Sentence: State the main argument supporting the first perspective.
- Explanation: Explain the reasoning behind why proponents hold this view.
- Example: Provide a concrete, relevant example.
3. Body Paragraph 2 (Second View & Your Opinion)
- Topic Sentence: Present the second viewpoint and explain why it is valid or superior.
- Explanation: Develop the supporting reasons.
- Example: Support with a relevant example.
4. Conclusion
- Sentence 1: Summary (summarize key arguments from both sides).
- Sentence 2: Final Stance (reiterate your personal opinion decisively).
Examiner Key Advice
Always state your personal opinion in the introduction. Waiting until the final sentence to reveal your stance risks presenting an unclear position for Task Response.
Develop both viewpoints with relevant reasoning. Balance means adequate treatment of both sides.
Clearly explain why one viewpoint is ultimately more compelling than the other.
Avoid first-person overuse; keep your tone objective and academic until presenting your conclusion.
Explore Related IELTS Resources
Sample Essays
- ›Air transport is increasingly used to export fruit and vegetables to countries where they cannot be grown or are out of season. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?
- ›As most people spend a major part of their adult life at work, job satisfaction is an important element of individual wellbeing. What are the factors that contribute to job satisfaction? How realistic is the expectation of job satisfaction for all workers?
- ›At present, the media affects people’s lives significantly. What impact does this have on society? Is it a negative or positive development?