Discuss both views

IELTS Writing Task 2: Tutorial for “Discuss Both Views and Give Your Opinion” Essays

Step-by-Step Plan

1. Understand the Question

  • Carefully identify the two opposing views and the topic they address.
  • Think critically about the key points for both sides.
    Example:
    Question: “Some people think that competition is beneficial, while others believe cooperation leads to greater success. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”
    Opposing Views:
    • View 1: Competition is beneficial.
    • View 2: Cooperation is better for success.

2. Structure Your Essay

Use a clear four-paragraph structure:

  1. Introduction: Paraphrase the question, briefly present both views, and state your opinion.
  2. Body Paragraph 1: Discuss the first view in detail, providing examples and analysis.
  3. Body Paragraph 2: Explore the opposing view, again with examples and analysis.
  4. Conclusion: Summarize both views and reiterate your opinion.

Universal Template

Introduction

  • Sentence 1: Paraphrase the question.
  • Sentence 2: Summarize both views briefly.
  • Sentence 3: Clearly state your opinion.

Example:
While some argue that competition drives progress and fosters personal development, others believe that cooperation is the foundation of long-term success and unity. Both perspectives offer valuable insights, but I believe that a balanced approach, combining competition with cooperation, is the most effective.

Body Paragraph 1: Discuss View 1

  1. Topic sentence: Introduce the first view.
  2. Explain why this view is valid.
  3. Provide examples or evidence to support this perspective.
  4. Acknowledge any limitations of this view (optional).

Example:
Supporters of competition argue that it motivates individuals to push their limits and achieve excellence. For example, students competing for top grades often work harder and develop valuable skills such as time management and perseverance. Similarly, in the corporate world, competition among businesses fosters innovation and higher-quality products for consumers. However, excessive competition may lead to stress and unhealthy comparisons, potentially harming mental well-being.

Transition Ideas for Paragraph 1:

  • To introduce the view: “Advocates of this perspective argue that…” / “Proponents of this belief suggest that…”
  • To elaborate: “This is because…” / “This demonstrates that…” / “For instance…”
  • To add limitations: “However, this approach is not without drawbacks…”

Body Paragraph 2: Discuss View 2

  1. Topic sentence: Introduce the second view.
  2. Explain why this view is valid.
  3. Provide examples or evidence to support this perspective.
  4. Acknowledge any limitations of this view (optional).

Example:
On the other hand, those who prioritize cooperation believe it fosters teamwork and collective progress. For instance, successful scientific breakthroughs, such as the development of vaccines, are often the result of collaboration among researchers worldwide. Additionally, cooperation helps individuals develop social skills, such as empathy and communication, which are essential for long-term success. Nonetheless, relying solely on cooperation might hinder individual initiative and reduce personal accountability.

Transition Ideas for Paragraph 2:

  • To introduce the view: “Conversely, others argue that…” / “In contrast, this perspective emphasizes that…”
  • To elaborate: “For example…” / “This is evident in…” / “Moreover…”
  • To add limitations: “That said, this approach may also face challenges…”

Conclusion

  1. Summarize both views objectively.
  2. Reaffirm your opinion with a final statement.

Example:
In conclusion, while competition encourages individuals to strive for personal excellence, cooperation enables collective achievements and fosters harmonious relationships. In my opinion, a balance between these two approaches is crucial for personal and societal progress, as both competition and cooperation have unique and complementary roles.

Transition Ideas for Conclusion:

  • “To sum up…”
  • “In summary, while both views have merit…”
  • “Ultimately, I believe that…”

Universal Cohesive Devices and Transition Ideas

To Introduce Ideas:

  • Firstly, Secondly, Lastly
  • On one hand, On the other hand
  • Some people believe that… while others think that…

To Add Support:

  • Furthermore, Moreover, Additionally
  • This can be seen in…
  • For instance, For example

To Compare and Contrast:

  • However, Conversely, On the contrary
  • Although, Even though, While
  • Despite this, Nonetheless

To Summarize or Conclude:

  • In conclusion, To sum up, In summary
  • Overall, Ultimately

Key Tips for High Scores

  1. Balance Your Tone: Present both views objectively, even if you disagree with one of them.
  2. Develop Ideas: Avoid superficial arguments; instead, explain and analyze your points thoroughly.
  3. Use Specific Examples: Examples can be from studies, personal experiences, or well-known global issues.
  4. Show Your Vocabulary Range: Use synonyms and avoid repeating the same words.
    • E.g., replace “competition” with “rivalry,” “contest,” or “competitive environment.”
  5. Check Grammar and Spelling: Avoid errors that can confuse the reader or reduce fluency.

Practice Questions for This Type of Essay

  1. Some people believe that children should be encouraged to compete, while others think cooperation is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
  2. Many believe that strict discipline leads to success, while others argue that creativity and freedom are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
  3. Some argue that governments should focus on economic growth, while others believe that social welfare is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

By following this template and practicing with diverse topics, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any “Discuss both views” question confidently. Let me know if you’d like me to create a specific example essay using this guide!