Essay Framework

Introduction - Catfish & Thesis statement & Making stand/view

Body Paragraph
- PEEL 1 - Point 1
- PEEL 2 - Point 2
- PEEL 3 - OVR (Opposing view & Rebuttal)
Conclusion - Transition & Restatement of position & Memonable closure

Discursive vs. Argumentative

- Discursive essay presents both sides of an issue, giving a balanced and objective
examination of the problem. Writer can draw conclusions on the matter and suggest
them to the reader at the end of the essay.
- Argumentative essay presents arguments on both sides of an issue, with one side
presented more forcefully than the other. The purpose being to sway reader to take a
point of view at the beginning of the essay.

Introductory Paragraph
- Catfish to hook readers to find out more.
- Make a stand/statement that summarises what the article is about and provide
meaningful details
- Try to include: Comment, Importance of the Topic, Factual Background,
Thoughtful Question etc. (Story Anecdote if applies)
- Thesis Statement to include: A stand, Supporting Point 1, Supporting Point 2
Eg: Are humans responsible for climate change? (8min51s)
Over the years, voices could be heard criticizing how the excess human activities and ignorance
of mankind had seriously damaged the beauty and nature of our environment. Problems such
as natural disasters appeared in this world we live in more often that it had ever been. One of
the more serious long-term issue that surfaced was the topic on climate change. So, are
humans responsible for climate change? It is certain that human had, to a large extent, took
nature too much for granted and caused many troubles that eventually falls upon ourselves.
Thus, I believe that humans are very much responsible for climate change. Whether it be the
overuse of natural resources or the exaggerated exploition of land that human had done in order
to achieve modern lifestyle and technologies. All traces indicated that we, as human, had
negatively contributed an extremely large part to the destruction of our once spotless
environment.

Body Paragraph
- It is necessary to take a side in an argumentative essay, yet, DO NOT rush to do so.
- Examine all points before taking a side. Take a stand by choosing the side which offers
the strongest point.
The PEEL Structure:
P - Use one of the proposed points provided earlier in the thesis
statement
- Ideally the first sentence

E - Support point with evidence & examples

- Expand and give more details
- Include facts, accepted norms, factual observations, analogies

E - Explain how the evidence & example support the point

L - Sum up the point of the body paragraph

- Do not give a mere repetition of the given point
- Connect this paragraph with the next part of the essay
Eg: Are humans responsible for climate change? (15min)
To begin with, humans had, from a very distant past, started relying on resources easily
extracted from the natural environment in their daily lives. Materials such as wood from trees,
paper made from tree barks and papyrus grass made into sheets used by the egyptians are all
examples of early human intellects. Back then, there was a great and peaceful period of time
where people and nature co-exists, yet humans can never be satisfied. In many ways, that
signifies great improvements in life for us humans. Over decades and centuries, human lifestyle
had underwent tremendous changes. Humans discovered more and more uses of natural
resources ever so often and our lives are made much better with plastic items like straws and
plastic bottles. However, with that comes consequences. It was in recent years that the phrase,
‘climate change’ surfaced. Many environmental activists also jumped out in the claim that
humans should start conserving our one and only environment. Melting of the polar glaciers and
the abnormal growth of daily temperatures were all along the signals warning humans of our
overuse of nature.
Self reflection - A bit off point, too long, must focus on main point, give more examples, need
work on time management.

OVR
- The goal of an argumentative essay is to persuade readers to still agree with the stand
and supporting points despite knowing there are other equally convincing opposing
views that may challenge the stand.
- The purpose of a OVR is to respectfully disagree with another viewpoint.
- Offer a developed opposing view to set the context to let readers comprehend why
others may hold an opposing viewpoint.
- And a rebuttal to reduce the relevance of that opposing viewpoint.
- Rebuttal methods include: Limitations, new evidence, faulty logic, providing a
solution, showing other more important considerations/increasing the value of the
point

Conclusion
- Do NOT present any new points in the concluding paragraph.
Components of a concluding paragraph
S - Signalling Devices
(Transitions)

R - Restatement of - Restate/emphasise stand

Position/Stand with a - Preferably at the front of the conclusion
summary of supporting
points

M - Memorable Closure - Suggest a future/long-term possibility

(Some Methods) - Use quote
- Evoke a vivid image (metaphor/simile)
- Call of action
- End with warning/consequence

Time allocation
Intro: 5 min
Body Para 1: 15 min
Body Para 2: 15 min
OVR: 15 min
Conclusion: 5 min

Quotes

1. "In the pursuit of knowledge, skepticism is a virtue, and critical thinking is its sword."

2. "Change is the only constant, and adaptation is the key to survival in the ever-evolving
landscape of ideas."

3. "The strength of an argument lies not just in the conviction of its proponent but in the
evidence that supports it."

4. "Diversity of perspectives enriches our understanding, fostering a robust environment for the
growth of ideas."

5. "In the realm of ideas, open-mindedness is the gateway to progress, allowing us to explore
new frontiers of knowledge."

6. "History is a testament to the power of ideas; they have the potential to shape societies,
redefine norms, and spark revolutions."

7. "The true mark of an educated mind is its ability to entertain an idea without accepting it,
embracing the spirit of intellectual curiosity."
8. "Effective communication is the bridge that connects disparate viewpoints, fostering
understanding and facilitating constructive dialogue."

9. "In the marketplace of ideas, the currency of evidence holds more value than the charisma of
the speaker."

10. "The strength of an argument is not determined by the volume of words but by the precision
and relevance of its supporting evidence."

Topics :

**Nature:**

1. **The Impact of Deforestation on Biodiversity: Balancing Economic Development and

Conservation.**
2. **Climate Change: Urgent Global Action or Natural Cycle?**
3. **Wildlife Conservation: Striking a Balance Between Human Needs and Animal Rights.**
4. **The Importance of Sustainable Agriculture in Preserving Ecosystems.**
5. **Preserving Natural Resources: Are Current Conservation Efforts Sufficient?**
6. **The Ethics of Zoos: Educational Tool or Animal Exploitation?**
7. **The Role of National Parks in Protecting Biodiversity and Providing Recreation.**
8. **Urbanization and its Effects on Natural Habitats: Finding Solutions for Coexistence.**
9. **The Ethics of Genetic Modification in Agriculture: Necessity or Environmental Hazard?**
10. **The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Life: Searching for Sustainable Alternatives.**

**Technology:**

1. **The Influence of Social Media on Personal Relationships and Mental Health.**

2. **Artificial Intelligence: Balancing Innovation with Ethical Considerations.**
3. **Cybersecurity: Protecting Individual Privacy in the Digital Age.**
4. **The Role of Technology in Education: Enhancing or Hindering Learning?**
5. **Automation in the Workplace: Job Creation or Unemployment Crisis?**
6. **Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap Between Technological Haves and Have-Nots.**
7. **The Ethics of Big Data: Balancing Technological Advancement and Privacy Rights.**
8. **Medical Technology: Advances in Healthcare or Ethical Dilemmas?**
9. **The Impact of Video Games on Youth Behavior and Mental Well-being.**
10. **The Role of Technology in Addressing Environmental Challenges: Friend or Foe?**

INtroductory para

1. **Impact of Climate Change:**

 - "In an era defined by rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and an urgent call for
environmental action, the discourse surrounding the impact of climate change has reached a
critical juncture."

2. **Biodiversity Conservation:**
- "As the delicate tapestry of Earth's biodiversity faces unprecedented threats, the question of
conservation transcends the realm of ecology, intertwining with economic stability, human
health, and the very fabric of our interconnected existence."

3. **Deforestation and Its Consequences:**

- "Amidst the rustling leaves and echoing calls of wildlife, the ominous sound of chainsaws
disrupts the delicate balance of our planet's lungs, prompting a closer examination of the
consequences of deforestation on both nature and humanity."

4. **Urbanization vs. Nature:**

- "In the relentless march of urbanization, skyscrapers pierce the skies, and concrete jungles
replace the verdant landscapes that once defined our surroundings. The clash between urban
development and the preservation of nature has become an existential debate."

5. **Benefits of Nature for Human Well-being:**

- "In the cacophony of modern life, where screens flicker and cities hum, the healing power of
nature beckons. From reducing stress to enhancing mental well-being, the symbiotic
relationship between humans and the natural world forms the basis of an essential discourse."

6. **Role of National Parks and Reserves:**

- "Beyond the boundaries of city skylines lies a sanctuary for the wild, where national parks
and reserves stand as guardians of biodiversity. The role of these protected areas in
conservation is not only paramount but also emblematic of our commitment to preserving the
richness of our planet."

7. **Water Conservation:**
- "In a world where the precious elixir of life is increasingly scarce, the call for water
conservation reverberates across continents. From dwindling aquifers to polluted rivers, the
urgency to protect and sustain our water resources demands our immediate attention."

8. **Ethics of Wildlife Tourism:**

- "As the allure of exotic wildlife draws tourists to distant lands, the ethical implications of
wildlife tourism cast a shadow over the thrill of observing majestic creatures in their natural
habitats."

9. **Plastic Pollution and Ocean Conservation:**

- "Beneath the azure expanses of our oceans, a silent crisis unfolds. The pervasive presence
of plastic pollution poses an imminent threat to marine life, compelling us to confront the
consequences of our disposable culture on the very ecosystems that sustain us."
10. **Green Energy vs. Environmental Impact:**
- "In the pursuit of a sustainable energy future, the debate over the environmental impact of
green energy sources has emerged as a pivotal point of contention. From wind turbines to solar
panels, the choices we make today will shape the ecological landscape of tomorrow."