Writing a good essay For and against essay

Writing a good essay “For and against” essay

Definition The argument essay is the most common type of writing assignment that college/university students will encounter throughout their academic careers. Also known as: • “For and against” essay • “Pros and cons” essay • An argumentative essay

Structure (1) • Introduction Paragraph 1 state topic (summary of the topic without giving your opinion) • Main Body Paragraphs 2 & 3 arguments for & justifications, examples, and/ or reasons Paragraphs 4 & 5 arguments against & justification, examples, and/or reasons • Conclusion Final Paragraph balanced consideration/ your opinion directly or indirectly

Structure (2) • Introduction Paragraph 1 State topic (summary of topic without stating your opinion) • Main Body Paragraph 2 first argument for & against Paragraph 3* second argument for & against • Conclusion Final Paragraph give balanced consideration/ your opinion expressed directly/indirectly

Tips: Ideas • Before you start writing your essay you should make a list of the points for and against. • The quality of an essay very much depends on whether a writer has something to say and expresses his or her thoughts and opinions clearly and logically. • Keep subjectivity to a minimum. • Always support your points with referenced evidence. Avoid use of the words ‘I’, ‘me’ and ‘you’. Write in the third person. • Make one major point per paragraph in the main body.

Tips: Style and structure • Avoid sub-headings and bullet points (lists). These are descriptive – you must discuss your points. • Avoid speech abbreviations such as ‘can’t’ and ‘don’t’. Write these in full. • Beware of using BUT too often. Use linking words instead. • The essay should customarily have some quotations. Use them sparingly and only when they really illustrate a point well. • Observe the punctuation rules. • Use 12 points and Times Roman or Ariel. Use double line spacing. Sources: 1) Assignment writing (University of Greenwich) http: //www. gre. ac. uk/studyskills/assignment_writing 2) Academic writing http: //academicwriting. wikidot. com/for-and-against-essays

Useful links • http: //www. readwritethink. org (Write your essay online!) • http: //learnenglishteens. britishcouncil. org/skills/writi ng-skills-practice/and-against-essay • https: //owl. english. purdue. edu/owl/resource/685/05/ • http: //www. grammarbook. com/punctuation_rules. asp • http: //englex. ru/how-to-write-an-effective-essay-11 rules/

Have a great time writing your essay!