University of Tlemcen, Algeria

Department of English
Licence 3: Comprehension and Written Production
2021/2022

2. Discuss

Many essay titles require you to examine both sides of a situation and to
conclude by saying which side you favor. These are known as discussion or for
and against essays. In this sense, the academic meaning of the word discuss is
similar to its everyday meaning, of two people talking about a topic from
different sides.

For a discussion essay, a balanced view is normally essential. This

makes discussion essays distinct from persuasion essays, for which only one
side of the argument is given. When writing a discussion essay, it is important
to ensure that facts and opinions are clearly separated. Often you will examine
what other people have already said on the same subject and include this
information using paraphrasing and summarizing skills, as well as correct
citations.

The following are examples of discussion essay topics:

 Examine the arguments for and against capital punishment.

 Schools should teach children not only academic subjects but also
important life skills. Discuss.

Much like writing an opinion essay, writing a pros

and cons essay argues an issue. However, unlike an
opinion essay, which addresses one viewpoint, the
pros and cons essay deals with both sides of the
issue. With research and preparation, students can
write a thought-provoking -- and grade-worthy --
pros and cons essay.

Credits : Pr. H. Hamzaoui & Dr. Y. Messaoudi

 University of Tlemcen, Algeria
Department of English
Licence 3: Comprehension and Written Production
2021/2022

Discussion Essay Outline

Introduction
Step 1 hook Paraphrase the question
Step 2 background State both views/standpoints
Step 3 background Give your view/opinion
Step 4 Thesis Outline what is going to be discussed in the essay body.
Body Paragraph 1
Topic Sentence Introduce view A
Supporting Sentences - Discuss and give details.
- Explain why this view is held by some people.
Concluding Sentence Give (an) example (s)
Body Paragraph 2
Topic Sentence Introduce view B
Supporting Sentences - Discuss and give details.
- Explain why this view is held by some people.
Concluding Sentence Give (an) example (s)
Conclusion
Summarize the main points.
State which view/standpoint is more important.
Restate your opinion.
Recommend if necessary.

#3 common mistakes to be avoided!

 NOT developing both sides of the argument equally.

 NOT giving arguments for both views.
 NOT stating your opinion.

Credits : Pr. H. Hamzaoui & Dr. Y. Messaoudi

 University of Tlemcen, Algeria
Department of English
Licence 3: Comprehension and Written Production
2021/2022

Practice
Task 1:

Topic: Discuss the view that critical thinking is more effective than learning by heart in
promoting students’ achievements at university.

- Underline the topic keywords.

- Think of the arguments which favor critical thinking as opposed to those which
disfavor rote learning.
- Write an introduction accordingly.

Task 2:

Topic: Some people think that zoos are cruel and should be closed down. Others, however,
believe that zoos can be useful in protecting wild animals. Discuss.

- Analyze the question (key words, instruction words).

- Decide on your opinion.
- Generate ideas (Idea 1 – Cramped cages & unnatural environments, animals
distressed… Idea 2 – Breeding programs for endangered species, some species saved
from extinction…).
- Write.

Task 3:

Analyze the enclosed answer (to the topic of task 2) according to the outline illustrated
above.

Credits : Pr. H. Hamzaoui & Dr. Y. Messaoudi