How to Identify & Answer Discussion Question Types in IELTS Writing Task 2
In this article, we'll discuss Discussion question types and look at how to identify them and what essay structure you should use to answer them. After learning about this question type, you'll get a chance to look at some practice questions and a complete sample essay.
How to Identify IELTS Writing Discussion Question Types
In a Discussion question type, you will be given two opposing views related to an issue. Usually, the two views will be in separate sentences connected by a transition word such as "however" to indicate that the two views contrast. Your task is to write a discursive essay, contrasting both sides of the issue and presenting your own view. Let's look at an example of this.
Obtaining a university degree is believed by some to be the best way to guarantee future success in one's career. On the other hand, some people reckon that learning a trade and getting experience is a better guarantee of steady work and income. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
Now let's look at how to structure your essay for a Discussion question.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Structure - Discussion
There is one main, fool-proof way to outline this type of essay, and we suggest that you follow this without straying from the procedure. This is the best way to map out your ideas for the Discussion Essay:
I. Introduction
II. First View
III. Second View
IV. Conclusion
Now, let's take a closer look at how to plan each paragraph.
Introduction - In general, you will need 2 sentences for this paragraph. Since this is the first paragraph of your essay, you should paraphrase the question that was given to you. In other words, rewrite the question in your own words using synonyms. This will help you in a few ways. First, it will guarantee that your essay is on target and following the theme given to you in the question. Secondly, it will give you a chance to show the examiners that you have a wide range of vocabulary and can call upon synonyms when necessary. The second sentence will introduce the specific topics that you plan to discuss in your main body paragraphs. Therefore, your introduction paragraph should look like:
- Rewritten Question/Both Points of View - The question states the two views.
- Thesis Statement - This is where you will add your own opinion.
First View - This paragraph should be about 4-5 sentences long. In this paragraph, you will describe the specific views with explanations, details, or examples. The paragraph should look like this:
- Topic Sentence - This will introduce the first view.
- Explanation/Detail of First View
- Reason for Agreeing/Disagreeing
- Example to Support Your View
Second View - This paragraph should be about 4-5 sentences long. In this paragraph, you will describe the specific views with explanations, details, or examples. The paragraph should look like this:
- Topic Sentence - This will introduce the second view.
- Explanation/Detail of Second View
- Reason for Agreeing/Disagreeing
- Example to Support Your View
Conclusion - This paragraph will wrap everything up, and it is not the time to add any new information into your essay. This paragraph should be around 3-4 sentences , and include the following information:
- Summary of the Main Points (2 sentences)
- Statement of Which is Better/More Important (1-2 sentences)
In short, here is what the final Paragraph Planner would look like for this outline:
A. Rewritten Question/Both Points of View (1 sentence)
B. Thesis Statement (1 sentence)
II. First View
A. Topic Sentence (1 sentence)
B. Explanation/Detail of First View (1 sentence)
C. Reason for Agreeing/Disagreeing (1 sentence)
D. Example to Support Your View (1 sentence)
II. Second View
A. Topic Sentence (1 sentence)
B. Explanation/Detail of Second View (1 sentence)
C. Reason for Agreeing/Disagreeing (1 sentence)
D. Example to Support Your View (1 sentence)
IV. Conclusion
A. Summary of the Main Points (1-2 sentences)
B. Something Important About This Topic (1-2 sentences)
IELTS Writing Discussion Sample Question and Model Essay
Topic sentences are in bold.
Explanations and details are in red.
Examples are in blue.
Opinions are in green .
Introduction:
While some people argue that we should emphasize the importance of competition when
teaching children, others take the view that focusing on cooperation is more important. In my
opinion, it is better for children to be taught to cooperate. (39 words)
Paragraph 1:
On one side of the argument, there are people who hold the opinion that encouraging competitiveness in children will yield better results. The most compelling reason for believing this is that competitiveness prepares them for life in the real world. When students grow up, for example, they will need to compete with other students for a place in university. However, I strongly believe that winning is not everything. A society focused solely on winning and competing ignores other important traits like compassion and generosity. (84 words)
Paragraph 2:
Despite these aforementioned views, other people believe that instilling a sense of cooperation in children will prove to be more beneficial for society as a whole. In society and work, cooperation and teamwork are both often required. For instance, a company will only achieve its overall goal if all parts work together and complement each other. Consequently, I believe that cooperation is an extremely important value, and has more value over competition. Children who learn that winning against another is not the most important thing will be more willing to work together towards achieving their goals. (96 words)
Conclusion:
All in all, there is a disagreement in society regarding the effects of competition on children. I strongly reckon that children should be taught compassion and core values, as these will have better long-term effects on society. (37 words)
Total Word Count: 256 words
This section presents a list of common IELTS Writing Task 2 - Discussion questions. If you want to prepare for the IELTS Writing Test, these questions are a must study.
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