Introduction to the Discussion Essay in IELTS
The discussion essay is a common type of question in the IELTS writing test, where you are asked to discuss a particular topic or issue. In this type of essay, you need to present a clear and balanced argument, discussing both sides of the topic and providing evidence to support your points. In this guide, we will provide you with tips and strategies on how to write a Band 9 discussion essay in IELTS.
Band 9 Model Essay
Some people believe that university education should be free, while others argue that students should pay for their own education. In my opinion, university education should be free for everyone. On the one hand, free university education would allow more people to access higher education, which would lead to a more educated and skilled workforce. This, in turn, would benefit the economy and society as a whole. For example, in countries like Sweden and Denmark, where university education is free, the workforce is highly skilled and the economy is thriving.
On the other hand, some people argue that students should pay for their own education because it would make them more motivated and responsible. However, I disagree with this argument. If students have to pay for their own education, it would create a barrier for people from low-income backgrounds, who may not be able to afford it. This would lead to a lack of diversity in the student population, which would be detrimental to the learning environment. Moreover, if students are motivated to learn, they would be motivated regardless of whether they have to pay for their education or not.
In conclusion, while there are arguments for and against free university education, I believe that it should be free for everyone. This would lead to a more educated and skilled workforce, which would benefit the economy and society as a whole.
Essay Structure Breakdown
A discussion essay typically consists of four paragraphs: an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should provide a clear and concise thesis statement, while the body paragraphs should discuss both sides of the topic and provide evidence to support your points. The conclusion should summarize the main points and reiterate the thesis statement.
Here is a breakdown of the essay structure:
- Introduction: Introduce the topic and provide a thesis statement.
- Body Paragraph 1: Discuss one side of the topic and provide evidence to support your points.
- Body Paragraph 2: Discuss the other side of the topic and provide evidence to support your points.
- Conclusion: Summarize the main points and reiterate the thesis statement.
Advanced Vocabulary
| Word | Type | Meaning | IELTS Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detrimental | Adjective | Causing harm or damage | The lack of diversity in the student population would be detrimental to the learning environment. |
| Thriving | Adjective | Prospering or flourishing | The economy is thriving in countries where university education is free. |
| Motivated | Adjective | Having a strong desire to do something | Students who are motivated to learn would be motivated regardless of whether they have to pay for their education or not. |
| Barrier | Noun | Something that prevents or blocks progress | The cost of university education would create a barrier for people from low-income backgrounds. |
| Skilled | Adjective | Having a high level of skill or expertise | A highly skilled workforce would benefit the economy and society as a whole. |
| Benefit | Verb | To receive an advantage or profit | Free university education would benefit the economy and society as a whole. |
| Educated | Adjective | Having a high level of knowledge or education | A highly educated workforce would be beneficial to the economy and society. |
| Argue | Verb | To give reasons or evidence to support a claim | Some people argue that students should pay for their own education. |
| Disagree | Verb | To have a different opinion or view | I disagree with the argument that students should pay for their own education. |
| Conclude | Verb | To reach a decision or judgment based on evidence | In conclusion, while there are arguments for and against free university education, I believe that it should be free for everyone. |
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes that students make when writing a discussion essay:
- Not providing a clear thesis statement in the introduction.
- Not discussing both sides of the topic.
- Not providing evidence to support your points.
- Not using transitional phrases to link your paragraphs.
- Not summarizing the main points in the conclusion.
Here are the corrections for these mistakes:
- Make sure to provide a clear and concise thesis statement in the introduction.
- Discuss both sides of the topic and provide evidence to support your points.
- Use examples, statistics, or expert opinions to support your points.
- Use transitional phrases such as "however," "in addition," and "meanwhile" to link your paragraphs.
- Summarize the main points in the conclusion and reiterate the thesis statement.
Examiner Tips
- Make sure to read the question carefully and understand what is being asked.
- Plan your essay before you start writing.
- Use a clear and concise writing style.
- Use transitional phrases to link your paragraphs.
- Use examples, statistics, or expert opinions to support your points.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a discussion essay?
A discussion essay is a type of essay that requires you to discuss a particular topic or issue, presenting both sides of the argument and providing evidence to support your points.
How do I structure a discussion essay?
A discussion essay typically consists of four paragraphs: an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should provide a clear and concise thesis statement, while the body paragraphs should discuss both sides of the topic and provide evidence to support your points. The conclusion should summarize the main points and reiterate the thesis statement.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a discussion essay?
Some common mistakes to avoid when writing a discussion essay include not providing a clear thesis statement, not discussing both sides of the topic, not providing evidence to support your points, not using transitional phrases to link your paragraphs, and not summarizing the main points in the conclusion.
How can I improve my discussion essay writing skills?
You can improve your discussion essay writing skills by practicing writing essays on different topics, reading and analyzing sample essays, and seeking feedback from teachers or peers. You can also use online resources such as grammar guides and vocabulary lists to improve your writing style and vocabulary.
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