Give arguments FOR the subject, without stating you opinion

Introduce the topic

Give arguments AGAINST the subject, without stating your opinion

Summarize your ideas and state your opinion or give a balanced

consideration of the topic.

For and Against Essay

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Structure:

Paragraph 1:

Paragraph 2:

Paragraph 3:

Paragraph 4:

2. Things to do:

Introduce each paragraph with a topic sentence, outlining the main ideas.

Keep your opinions to yourself until you reach the conclusions paragraph.

Write in formal style.

3. Things not to do:

Do not use colloquial expressions.

Do not use short forms.

4. Useful vocabulary:

Expressing facts:

It is widely known that, it is a well-known fact that, research has shown that, it is a fact

that, it is clear/ true that, for example/ for instance, etc.

Adding ideas:

What is more, moreover/ furthermore/ in addition (to), apart from (that), firstly, first of

all, secondly, thirdly, lastly, finally, etc.

Concluding the essay:

To sum up, to conclude, in conclusion, it is clear that, in short, on the whole, all in all,

etc.

Expressing opinions (only for the conclusion paragraph!):

In my opinion, personally, I think/ I believe (that), it is clear (to me) that, it seems to me

that, to my mind, in my view, from my point of view, as far I am concerned.

Linkers:

Contrast: Although, despite, in spite of, even if, whereas, however, but, on the one

hand…on the other hand, etc. Purpose: So (that), in order to, to, so as to, etc.

5. Topic, expected length and formal issues:

Write between 150 and 200 words on the topic “Uniforms in schools: reasons for and against”.

Note that if you write under 150 words or over 200 words, you will be penalized. All essays

must be typed and double-spaced.