For and Against Essay

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Structure:
Paragraph 1:

Introduce the topic

Paragraph 2:

Give arguments FOR the subject, without stating you opinion

Paragraph 3:

Give arguments AGAINST the subject, without stating your opinion

Paragraph 4:

Summarize your ideas and state your opinion or give a balanced

consideration of the topic.

2. Things to do:
Introduce each paragraph with a topic sentence, outlining the main ideas.
Keep your opinions to yourself until you reach the conclusions paragraph.
Write in formal style.
3. Things not to do:
Do not use colloquial expressions.
Do not use short forms.
4. Useful vocabulary:
Expressing facts:
It is widely known that, it is a well-known fact that, research has shown that, it is a fact
that, it is clear/ true that, for example/ for instance, etc.
Adding ideas:
What is more, moreover/ furthermore/ in addition (to), apart from (that), firstly, first of
all, secondly, thirdly, lastly, finally, etc.
Concluding the essay:
To sum up, to conclude, in conclusion, it is clear that, in short, on the whole, all in all,
etc.
Expressing opinions (only for the conclusion paragraph!):
In my opinion, personally, I think/ I believe (that), it is clear (to me) that, it seems to me
that, to my mind, in my view, from my point of view, as far I am concerned.
Linkers:
Contrast: Although, despite, in spite of, even if, whereas, however, but, on the one
handon the other hand, etc. Purpose: So (that), in order to, to, so as to, etc.
5. Topic, expected length and formal issues:
Write between 150 and 200 words on the topic Uniforms in schools: reasons for and against.
Note that if you write under 150 words or over 200 words, you will be penalized. All essays
must be typed and double-spaced.