WRITING TASK 2 NOTES

Time limits: 40 minutes

Word limit: 250-300 words

Minimum number of paragraphs: 4

Maximum number of paragraphs: 5-6

DO
1. Analyze the topic.

2. Respond to all parts of the prompt fully.

3. Spend first five minutes for planning the essay (brainstorm).

4. Divide essay in appropriate paragraphs.

5. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence.

6. Give a reason and an example for each of your arguments.

7. Summarize the points made in the essay in the conclusion.

8. Provide recommendations, suggestions, wider implications in the conclusion (if needed).

9. Use impersonal language (Don’t use first person language, it should be applicable for
all readers).

10. Write opinion in formal style.

11. Use formal vocabulary.

12. Avoid repetition of words instead use synonyms.

13. Use connective words (furthermore, likewise, similarly, additionally, besides).

14. Use contrast words (despite, on the other hand, on the contrary, inspite of, but, however, in
contrast, by contrast).

15. Use complex sentence structure (while, because, as soon as, although, whenever, until, before,
even, if).

16. Use compound sentence: FANBOYS (For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So)

17. Proofread your work to avoid simple mistakes.

18. Make sure you have written 250 words minimum.

13
Don’t
1. DON’T use contractions (e.g. don’t, it’s, etc, and so on, and many more, can’t, &).
2. DON’T be personal (e.g. I, me, my).
3. DON’T use any personal examples.
4. Avoid simple vocabulary and basic linking words (and, but, also).
5. DON’T use overgeneralization (all, everyone, never).
6. DON’T forget to answer all parts of the task.
7. DON’T forget to summarize and conclude essay in last paragraph.
8. DON’T use examples or arguments unrelated to the topic.
9. DON’T use religious view.
10. DON’T use broad statements (e.g., everyone is distracted from mobile phone these days; men
and women are both sides of the same coin; human beings are social animal).
11. DON’T write universal truth (e.g., we live in the planet earth; sun rises from the east and sets
in the west; blood is red; sky is blue).
12. DON’T use cliché (last but not the least; where there are advantages, there are disadvantages;
in conclusion; don’t judge the book by its cover).
13. DON’T use redundant words like many more, more and more, 8 am in the morning, enter into,
plan ahead, postpone until later, established and founded…
14. DON’T define any terms.

Writing introduction paragraph

Background statement + Paraphrase question + Thesis statement

Background Statement

Begin with a general statement or idea. Relate question topic to the contemporary context.

E.g.,
There is no denying the fact that school children are under tremendous pressure to perform well in
academics.
The advantages and disadvantages of sending children to mixed schools have always been a subject of
debate.
The increase in development activities in the developing nations had led to decrease in the quality of air
and water.
An increasing number of children now carry mobile phones.

Paraphrase the Question

Restate the question in your own word.

Thesis statement

• Single/double sided
• With/without reasons

1. Discussion essay: A number of people believe serious crimes need to have a set pun-
ishment, whereas others argue that the situation of the crime must be considered. I agree
that the circumstances of the crime itself should be taken into account because every case
is different.
 2. Opinion essay: It is argued that society would be better off if every type of advertising
was prohibited. I disagree that all advertising should be disallowed as this policy would
not benefit society and would negatively impact the economy.
3. Advantages and disadvantages essay: In recent times, people can reside wherever they
want in the world because of the progress that has made in technology and transport. The
main advantage is the career opportunities that a person can get outside their own
country, while a possible downside would be the stress of adjusting to living in a
different culture.
4. Advantages outweigh disadvantages essay: Some experts argue that children should
study a new language at primary school as opposed to secondary school. This essay
agrees that the advantages are stronger than the disadvantages because youngsters
pick up and master new languages much easier than at a high school age.
5. Problem-solution/Cause-effect essay: People living in large cities have to deal with
many issues in their day to day lives. The main problems people face are high rental
costs and over- crowding. Some possible solutions would be to build more affordable
housing and more green spaces.
6. Direct question essay: The world wide web is a huge source of knowledge which has
created opportunities for people worldwide to study. However, not all information on
the internet can be trusted, so the government needs to put measures in place to protect
people from false information.

How to understand the analysis question?

1. Underline the key words and replace these with suitable synonyms.
2. Identify the sides of the questions as A and B.
3. Identify main argument of the question.

Make a note
Example question: People are benefited from mobile phones these days. Do you think the
advantages of mobile phones outweigh the disadvantages?

Spend up to 5 minutes to prepare the note. Summarize positive and negative aspects of the
argument as indicated in Table 1:

Table 1: Example brainstorming notes

Positive Negative
Entertainment Mental health
Productivity Distraction
Knowledge Waste of time

Types of questions in detail

1. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Some people think a crime should always have a fixed punishment like life for murder,
while others believe you should take the circumstances of the crime into account. Discuss
both views and give your opinion.

→ Here you need to paraphrase both views and then state your opinion. You can agree
with one side of the argument when you give your opinion but DON’T GIVE TWO
DIFFERENT OPINIONS. You must write about the other side of the argument but you
 have to stick with your opinion on the matter.

Follow this strategy when question is prompted to answer both sides of the argument with
opinion. If we need to consider both sides of the argument with opinion, it will be better to write
in five paragraphs as indicated in Table 2.

Table 2: Writing essay considering major positive, major negative, and both aspects
Paragraphs Major positive Major negative Both equal
Paragraph 1: Introduction +ve -ve Both +/-
Paragraph 2: First body paragraph +ve -ve +ve
Paragraph 3: Second body paragraph -ve +ve -ve
Paragraph 4: Third body paragraph -ve to +ve +ve to -ve N/A
Para 5: Conclusion +ve -ve Both +/-

Paragraph 1: Introduction

• Sentence 1: Provide background information

• Sentence 2: P a r a p h r a s e t h e t o p i c

• Sentence 3: Briefly explain what will be discussed in the essay

Paragraph 2: Side A (Supporting side)

• Present the first side of the statement

• Explain the point with examples/evidence

Paragraph 3: Side B (Opposite side)

• Present an opposing viewpoint (opposing side)

• Provide evidence to support the opposing view
Paragraph 4: Solution
• Provide some solutions over the opposite side to make it compatible with side A
• Explain how each solution would benefit the situation
• Show how it would improve the situation and how it would benefit society.
Paragraph 5: Conclusion
• Briefly summarize the arguments and examples.
• Give your opinion regarding which side you prefer.

Example question:
Some people view teenage conflict with their parents as a necessary part of growing up,
whilst others see it as something negative which should be avoided. Discuss both views and give
your opinion.
• Body paragraph 1: Some people view teenage conflict with their parents as a necessary
part of growing up
• Body paragraph 2: others see it as something negative which should be avoided

Sample Template
Paragraph 1: Introduction
The topic of issue side (Side A) has been a contentious issue among members of the who is the
sufferer for a long time. This essay will discuss both sides of the argument and explain why
side A or Side B is the more justified viewpoint.

Paragraph 2: Agreeing side

It is commonly believed that state positive side. This is a strong argument and is supported
by supply evidences. add a concluding remark for paragraph 2

Paragraph 3: Solution
On the contrary, it is often supported by some people that state opposing side. This is a valid
argument, but it has some demerits like write your opposing view. add a concluding remark
for paragraph 2

Paragraph 4: Solution over opposing side

After considering both sides of the debate, it is evident that state supported argument is the
more justified viewpoint. This is because state why it is more justifiable. Although detrimental
effects of state opposite side can be reduced by supply 1-2 solutions. add a concluding remark
for paragraph 3

Paragraph 5: Conclusion
In conclusion, it is clear that state supported argument is the more valid viewpoint over state
opposite side . This is supported by add supporting reason and should be taken into consid-
eration when discussing this issue. Therefore, from my standpoint, state solution is the
better idea to reduce the demerits of state opposite side.
 2. Discuss both sides.

Some people think a crime should always have a fixed punishment like life for murder,
while others believe you should take the circumstances of the crime into account. Discuss
both views.

→ Here you need to discuss both views but DO NOT state your opinion. You do not
need to take any side of the argument.
Follow this strategy when question is prompted to answer both sides only (Table 3).

Table 3: Writing essay considering both aspects

Paragraphs Both
Paragraph 1: Introduction Both +/- (no opinion)
Paragraph 2: First body paragraph +ve
Paragraph 3: Second body paragraph -ve
Para 5: Conclusion Both +/- (no opinion)

Paragraph 1: Introduction

• Sentence 1: Provide background information

• Sentence 2: P a r a p h r a s e t h e t o p i c

• Sentence 3: Briefly explain what will be discussed in the essay (No opinionated sentence)

Paragraph 2: Side A

• Present the first side of the statement

• Explain the point with examples/evidence

Paragraph 3: Side B

• Present the second side of the statement

• Explain the point with examples/evidence
Paragraph 4: Conclusion
• Briefly summarize the argument and examples

3. Advantages and disadvantages

What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a fixed punishment like life for
murder?

→ Here you need to discuss both advantages and disadvantages in an unbiased

manner but DO NOT state your opinion. You do not need to take any side of the
argument. Include at least 2 advantages and 2 disadvantages.

Synonyms for advantages: merits, benefits, positive impact, pros, opportunity, favor, on the
bright side
Synonyms for disadvantages: demerits, potential risk, negative impact, danger, cons, draw-
backs, ill effects, challenges, against, on the flip side,

Common advantages
Efficiency, cost savings, productivity, satisfaction, accuracy, speed, flexibility, capacity, security, reliability, safety,
Accessibility, user friendly, integrity, sustainability, durability, mobility

Writing an advantage/disadvantage essay

Paragraph 1: Introduction

• Background statement

• Paraphrase the given statement

• Thesis statement (Also, opinion if asked)

Paragraph 2: Advantages (Provide 2-3 advantages)

• Introduce the advantages of the topic

• Provide examples and evidence to support the advantages

• Explain why these advantages are positive

Paragraph 3: Disadvantages (provide 2-3 disadvantages)

• Introduce the disadvantages of the topic

• Provide examples and evidence to support the disadvantages

• Explain why these disadvantages are negative

Paragraph 4: Opinion for solution (Write when writer’s opinion is asked in the advantage-
disadvantage essay)
• Analyze the advantages and disadvantages

• Explain how they can be balanced

• Give your opinion to overcome disadvantages

Paragraph 5: Conclusion

• Restate the main argument of the essay

• Summarize the main points

SAMPLE TEMPLATE

Paragraph 1: Introduction

In today’s world, it is common to hear opinions of people debating the advantages and
disadvantages of a particular issue. This essay will look at the arguments for and against
paraphrase the statement, before coming to a conclusion.

Paragraph 2: Advantages(provide 2-3 advantages)

The first advantage is state advantage 1. This is beneficial because explain why advantage 1 is
beneficial. Additionally, State another advantage which can help state positive consequences
of advantage 2.

Paragraph 3: Disadvantages (provide 2-3 disadvantages)

The main disadvantage of this topic is state first disadvantage here. This can be detrimental
because state why disadvantage 1 is detrimental. Additionally, there is the issue of second
disadvantage, which can be problematic because State why disadvantage is a problem.

Paragraph optional: solution

If word count is not sufficient, you can add some suitable solution over disadvantages.

Paragraph 4: Conclusion
Overall, the advantages and disadvantages of this topic must be considered carefully. On one
hand,State advantages , but on the other hand State disadvantages . In my opinion, give a
solution over disadvantages as an opinion .
 4. Agree/Disagree

Society would benefit from a complete ban on all forms of advertisements. D o you agree
or disagree?

→ Mention clearly if you agree or disagree in the thesis statement. You have a choice to write single-sided
or double-sided essay.

5. How far do you Agree/Disagree

→ Mention clearly how far or to what extent you agree or disagree in the thesis statement (e.g. I strongly
agree, I strongly disagree, I somewhat agree, I somewhat disagree). You have a choice to write single-sided
or double-sided essay.
6. Advantages outweigh disadvantages (this needs your opinion)

Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at
primary school rather than secondary school. Do the advantages of this outweigh the
disadvantages?

→ This type of advantage/disadvantage essay you have to write about what side you
think is stronger and reflect that in the essay and also in the thesis statement. You need to
state opinion here.

7. Positive or a negative development (this needs your opinion)

→ This type of positive or a negative development essay you have to choose one
side in the thesis statement. You need to state opinion here. Also, you have an option to
write as a single-sided or a double-sided essay.

8. Problem-solution
People who live in big cities face a number of problems in their daily life. What are the
main issues people in cities face? How can this be tackled?
What are the causes of deforestation? Highlight some effects caused by this to life.

→ Not opinionated. Simply discuss problems in the first body paragraph and solutions in
the second body paragraph.

Be focused on the sufferer(environment, economy, people, society), who is responsible of

creating problem, its causes, consequences, solution methods, responsibilities,
implementation of solution and challenges, and advantages of solution while writing an
essay.
Ways to solve the problem:

1. Add something 6. Motivate

2. Remove something 7. Build something new
3. Educate 8. Adapt working solution
4. Make rules or laws 9. Change leadership
5. Enforce rules or laws 10. Change attitude

Paragraph 1: Introduction
• Sentence 1: Introduce the topic (paraphrase the given statement of problem)
• Sentence 2: Explain why this problem needs to be solved
• Outline structure of the essay
Paragraph 2: Explain the problem with causes (Provide 2-3 reasons of the problem)
 • Sentence 1: Explain the problem in detail with its underlying causes. Also add who is
responsible for the problem creation.
• Sentence 2: Provide evidences and examples to support the problem (who and how they
are suffering)
• Show why this is an important issue to be addressed (as a concluding remarks for the first
paragraph).
Paragraph 3: Suggest solution (Provide 2-3 solutions of the problem)
• Sentence 1: Suggest a short term/long term solution to the problem. Add some
research ideas as well.
• Sentence 2: Explain how this solution addresses the problem
• Sentence 3: Write concluding remark
Paragraph 4: Outlining the benefits (Provide 2-3 benefits of the problem)
• Sentence 1: Outline the benefits of this solution, both in the short and long term
• Sentence 2: Explain how each solution would benefit the situation
• Sentence 3: Show how it would improve the situation and how it would benefit society.
Paragraph 4: Implementation of the solution (Add this if word count is less than 250)
• Sentence 1: Outline the implementation plan for the proposed solution. Also explain who
is responsible for the solution.
• Sentence 2: Explain about use of available resources and limitations
• Sentence 3: Explain how the implementation plan will lead to the successful resolution of
the problem
Paragraph 5: Conclusion

Sample template
Paragraph 1: Introduction

Nowadays, there are a number of problems facing our society. One of the major problems is
paraphrase given problem here, which is creating adverse impact on who/what is the suf-
ferer. This essay will propose solutions to this problem and discuss their potential effectiveness.

Paragraph 2: Problem
The main cause of this problem is major causes of problem . This is because reason 1, and
reason 2. As a result, this problem has become increasingly difficult to solve.

Paragraph 3: Solution
In order to address this problem, a number of measures should be taken. Firstly, solution 1
should be implemented in order to consequence of solution 1. Secondly,solution 2 should be
introduced in order to consequence of solution 2. Finally, solution 3: research as part of the
solution should be encouraged in order to consequence of solution 3.

Paragraph 4: Action plan/ implementation

In order to implement these solutions, a few steps need to be taken. Firstly, legal policy
should be developed to ensure what policy is targeted for. Secondly, awareness programs
related to problem should be implemented to make sure people, government and stakeholders
are aware of the problem. Finally, research and development activities should be done
effectively to find new and efficient way to solve the problem.

Paragraph 5: Advantages
One advantage of problem statement is that proposed solutions can help to improve the
situation. For example, give a example. This could lead to benefit 1, and benefit 2. This would
result in positive outcome 1, and positive outcome 2.
 Paragraph 6: Conclusion
In conclusion, it is evident that state problem is a pressing issue that needs to be solved.
Solu- tions such as solution 1, solution 2 and solution 3 should be implemented in order to
effectively tackle this problem.

9. Cause-effect

→ Not opinionated. Simply discuss causes in the first body paragraph and effects in the
second body paragraph.

In cause-and-effect essay you must show how one person, thing, idea, or event
directly influences another person, thing, idea, or event.
Some common causes of problems are: ignorance, politics, environment, lack of education and
training, lack of resources, poor heath, conflict, violence, poverty, corruption, poor management
and planning, poor communication, brain drain, unwilling to change, unhealthy working en-
vironment, poor quality control, unawareness etc.

Paragraph 1: Introduction

• Introduce the topic of the essay (Paraphrase the given statement)

• Give a brief overview of the main points to discuss–Include a thesis statement that
illus- trates your thoughts on the main cause or effect of the event or situation.

Paragraph 2: Causes

• Identify one or more causes of the topic

• Explain the cause(s) in detail

• Provide examples or evidence to support the cause(s)

Paragraph 3: Effects

• Identify one or more effects of the topic

• Explain the effect(s) in detail

• Provide examples or evidence to support the effect(s)

Paragraph 4: Conclusion

• Summarize the main ideas of the essay

• Reiterate the importance of the cause-effect relationship

• Suggest possible solutions or recommendations

Sample Template
Paragraph 1: Introduction

The cause and effect of state problem here is a complex phenomenon that has been the major
concern of debate for many years. This essay will discuss the causes and effects of state
problem here and will attempt to explain why it is a problem of global importance.

Paragraph 2: Cause (Provide 2-3 causes)

The primary cause of state problem here is state cause 1 in detail. This is closely followed by
state cause 2 with evidences, which has a significant impact on the problem. Additionally, state
cause 3 with suitable example is another factor that is also linked to the problem.

Paragraph 3: Effect (provide 2-3 effects)

The effects of cause can be seen in a number of areas. People are now suffering from state
problem here, which can lead to write consequence of the problem . Additionally, state prob-
lem here has become more frequent, resulting in state another consequence here .
Ultimately, these effects have had a negative impact on society as a whole.(Effect can be both
positive and negative sometimes)

Paragraph optional: solution

If word count is not sufficient, you can add some suitable solution for the given problem.

Paragraph 4: Conclusion
In conclusion, it is clear that stated problem has a significant consequences on sufferer. It is im-
portant to be aware of the potential consequences of problem and to take preventative measures
to ensure that the effects are minimized.
4.1. OPINION 30
ESSAY

10. Two part question (direct question essay)

The internet is a great source of information and has opened up opportunities for people
to learn all around the world. Is all information reliable on the internet? What could be
done to control information online?

→ You write your opinion here. Rephrase the question prompt in the introduction. Answer
the first part of the question in the first body paragraph. Answer the second part of the
question in the second body paragraph.

Writing an essay
Paragraph 1: Introduction
• Background statement
• Paraphrase the question
• Thesis statement
Paragraph 2: First question
• Restate the first question in different words (Topic sentence)

• Answer to the first question

• Supply evidences and examples
Paragraph 3: Second question
• Restate the first question in different words (Topic sentence)
• Answer to the second question
• Provide evidences and examples
Paragraph 4: Conclusion
• Summarize both questions and answers
• Restate your thesis statement

Useful phrases for writing body section

Use following words for body construction:

Sequential words

• First of all

• Firstly,

• To begin with,

• To start with,

Connective words:

• Furthermore,

• Moreover,

• Next,

• Additionally,

• Besides,
4.1. OPINION 31
Example
ESSAY words:
• For instance,

• To illustrate,

• To exemplify,

• For example,

• To clarify,

• Take, …, for example.

• …, for example.

• A good example is … .

Contrast words:

• However,

• In contrast,

• On the contrary,

• On contrary to

• On the other hand,

• Conversely,

• Despite

• Inspite of

• Although

Listing words:
• First(ly),
• Second(ly),
• Third(ly),
• Fourth(ly),
• Last(ly)/Final(ly),
Highlighting and stressing:
• Particularly, in particu- lar
• Specially,
• Especially,
• Obviously,
• Clearly,
• Of course!
Reasons and causes:
• Because
• Due to
• Since
 4.1. OPINION 32
• As
ESSAY

Giving opinion:

• In my opinion,

• I think,

• I believe,

• I admit,

• In my view,

• I (strongly/somewhat) agree

• I (strongly/somewhat) disagree

Body conclusion:

• Thus,

• So,

• Hence,

• Therefore,

• In this way,

• That is why,

Essay conclusion:

• In summation,

• In summary,

• To summarize

• To conclude,

• To reiterate,

• To recapitulate,

Single-sided essay
Argue just one side of the question throughout (either positive or negative)
1. Paragraph 1: Introduction
(a) Background statement: general idea relating to the contemporary context.
(b) Paraphrase: Write the question in your own words.
(c) Thesis statement: Direct answer to the question with your opinion. It could be single-sided
or double-sided; and with reason or without reason.
2. Paragraph 2: First body paragraph (provide reason 1, evidence for reason 1 and and some
examples for reason 1)
3. Paragraph 3: Second body paragraph (provide reason 2, evidence for reason 2 and and
some examples for reason 2)
4. Paragraph 4: Conclusion (Conclude all passages with the thesis statement)
4.1. OPINION 33
4.1.2
ESSAY Double-sided essay

Follow this strategy when one of either positive or negative parts is superior and the question
is not asked to argue on both sides. We can write a double-sided essay in the following two
different categories:
1. Type 1: focusing positive side of the argument
2. Type 2: focusing negative side of the argument
Table 2 shows the process of writing different paragraphs based on tone (Positive or nega-
tive) of the opinion. In paragraph 3, we should counter the opposite part of the considered by
providing some reliable opinions.

Table 4.2: Argument tone and paragraph idea for single and double sided essay
Single sided agreement Double sided agreement
↓Paragraphs/
Positive Negative Positive Negative
Tone→
Paragraph 1: Introduction +ve -ve +ve -ve
Paragraph 2: First body paragraph +ve -ve -ve +ve
Paragraph 3: Second body paragraph +ve -ve -ve to +ve +ve to -ve
Para 4: Conclusion +ve -ve +ve -ve
4.1. OPINION 34
ESSAY
Writing an opinion essay
If you completely agree or completely disagree with the given prompt, then you have to go for
the single-sided essay. Refer Table 2 for more detail. It will be easier to write a double-sided
essay than the single one because each and every matter can be seen from both positive and
negative aspects, which ultimately helps to reduce the brainstorming time.

Paragraph 1: Introduction
• Paraphrase the given statement with some background.
• Thesis statement (I strongly agree/disagree or I somewhat agree/disagree)
Paragraph 2: Explain why you agree with the opinion (Provide 2-3 reasons with examples)
In this paragraph, advantages can be used to support the opinion; also possible consequences
of disagreeing the opinion can be written as a support.
• Sentence 1: provide opinion 1 on why do you agree with the given statement and give
your supporting evidences for the provided opinion.
• Sentence 2: provide opinion 2 on why do you agree with the given statement and give
your supporting evidences or examples.
• Conclude paragraph 1.
Paragraph 3: Counter argue for the negative sides with possible solutions (Provide 2-3 solu-
tions to counter negative sides)
In this paragraph, you can discuss the negative sides of the statement and give some solutions
as an opinion to make it positive. (Note that, if you have agreed previously on the given statement,
you need to counter the negative sides to make it agreeable. Never be biased from your thesis statement.)

• Sentence 1: Provide solution as an opinion for the negative side 1.

• Sentence 2: Provide solution as an opinion for the negative side 2.
• Summarize the second paragraph.

Paragraph 4: Conclusion
• Summarize paragraphs 3 and 4
• Restate thesis statement

EXAMPLE QUESTION
People are benefitted from mobile phones these days. Does the advantages of mobile phones
outweigh its disadvantages?

Paragraph 1: Introduction
Smartphones have developed in the last three decades, making communication faster and
eas- ier than before. Despite the adverse effects of smartphones on people’s lives, I think,
they have positively impacted different aspects of human society across the globe.

Paragraph 2: First body paragraph (Support thesis statement)

Sequential word+ (Reason 1+Details for Reason 1)+Connecting word+(Reason 2+Details for
Reason 2)+Conclusion for first body paragraph

To begin with, smartphone owners have positive attitudes towards their phones’ time-saving
capabilities because they can access the information they need at all times. To clarify, with the
help of mobile applications, people are now using smartphones conveniently for their financial transac-
4.1. OPINION 35
ESSAYtions, navigating, communicating, and scheduling their routines. Additionally, smartphones have
become entertainment devices among people. Nowadays, people use wireless technology, es-
pecially cellphones, to watch movies, TV shows, and listen to music. Thus, phones provide
convenience and recreation in the life of an individual.

Paragraph 3: First body paragraph (Against the thesis statement)

Contrast word+ (Reason 1+Details for Reason 1)+Connecting word+(Reason 2+Details for
Reason 2)+Conclusion for second body paragraph

From a different perspective, excessive mobile phone use may cause addiction among indi-
viduals, which might negatively impact human well-being. Smartphone addiction, to exemplify,
can lead to depression, stress, anxiety, and a lack of social interaction among different people . Similarly,
continuous use of mobile phones will cause a distraction for children in classrooms and drivers
on the road. For example, students cannot concentrate in class because these devices have
shortened people’s attention spans. Furthermore, many people use their mobile phones while
driving and do not pay attention to the road inviting fatal injuries. In this way, excessive use
of cell phones will affect people’s lives, making them distracted and ill.

Paragraph 4: Conclusion (summarize both ’for’ and ’against’)

Summary word+ summarize para 3 and 4 + restate thesis statement

In summation, smartphones have become beneficial to communities and have created a more
comfortable life for people worldwide. Although extreme smartphone use can harm human
psychological health and negatively affect the concentration level amongst individuals, life can
be more difficult and slower without that technology. Therefore, I believe that, if used cautiously,
the advantages of mobile phones will outweigh their disadvantages.
4.1. OPINION 32
ESSAY
Some phrases to express others’ opinion
Using passive sentence structures really help to increase band score in IELTS discussion
essay. Try following:

• It is commonly/frequently/often believed/thought that.....

• It is considered/supported by many/some that....

• It is argued by many/some that....

Using the following simple tenses is okay but they are not that impressive:

• Many/some people believe/think that.....

• Many/some argue that.....