TitelWriting a discussion
Autoranonym
veröffentlicht10.03.2024
FachEnglisch
Klassenstufe11

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Many tasks require you to write an argumentative text in form of a discussion. For this kind of task you will need to weigh up arguments in favour of both sides of a debate in order to come to a well-founded conclusion and state your opinion on the given question.

Preparation:

Know what your line of argument is before you start writing. To accomplish this, prewrite or brainstorm your ideas on paper.
Write a rough outline that begins with a thesis statement. A thesis statement is an argument that you want to prove.

Introduction:
The first sentences should be an interesting introduction that presents the problem your argumentative essay will discuss. The last sentence should clearly state the thesis or the basic question, argument or problem.

The text raises the question of.../ introduces the problem of...

Main part:

First line of argument:
Look at the problem from one side /e.g. the side of those in favour, the arguments for a particular question). Write at least 3 paragraphs that support your thesis. Find relevant quotes, examples, and statistics to cite.
Second line of argument:
Then consider the problem from a different side (e.g. the side of those against, the arguments against a particular question). Adress any counterclaims in the main body of your argument as well.

Note:

Instead of discussing first arguments in favour and then arguments against, you may also contrast each argument for with an argument against the issue right away.

Pro-Arguments

Considering the fact that...
Another important point/ factor is...
Above all, it is important to note...
It might be argued that …
First/ Second/ Third ...
Furthermore/ Moreover/ In addition
An example for this is …

Counter-Arguments

In contrast to A, B...
On the one hand..., on the other hand…
From B's point of view, however,...
Supporters/Opponents of... argue

Conclusion: Conclude by summing up the evidence presented and restate the thesis. Add which side or perspective makes more sense or is more justified to you. You may, at this point, also add personal feelings about the topic, say how you see the topic in the context of other related issues and/ or give an outlook on how the issue in question might develop in the future. In any case, repetition of arguments must be avoided!

I rather agree/ disagree with...
As opposed to..., I definitely believe that...
Having considered the different arguments, I...
Looking at the two sides, I have to say...
As a result.../ All in all.../ Concluding/ As a conclusion .../ In summary/ To sum up...