Most young people today are obsessed with fame and imitating celebrities. What are your views?
Now, itâs your turn! Try planning an outline for the following topics:
On the other hand, there are topics which are not suited for such a binary approach. Consider questions such as:
Give yourself 10 minutes to do a proper planning. Itâs useful to approach the issue at hand by exploring its significance and relevance in different spheres and domains : Education, Ethics or Morals, Technology, Law etc.
Instead of giving 3 different points from an education perspective, why not broaden your scope and look at the issue from not just an educational perspective, but also a technological perspective and an ethical perspective?
This is what makes for a matured, holistic response.
Letâs use the following topic as an example:
Young people changing the world for the better | Young people changing the world for the better |
Education] youth advocates are helping to make education available to girls in less developed countries | [Politics] many youths are politically apathetic |
[Environment] youths are advocating for leaders to change environmental policies | Environment] youths are the primary consumers of fast fashion, which depletes valuable natural resources. |
[Technology] young people are driving social media advancements | [Technology] the younger generation is abusing technology. |
If you run out of ideas, you can also examine two sides of a coin in a single domain. For example, youâll see that in the example, that for the technological sphere, there are instances of youths making and not changing the world for the better.
Now that the brainstorming is done, letâs put pen to paper and start writing!
You can ask yourself these questions to help you with your intro:
Simply answer these questions + include your thesis. Voila, you have a solid introduction!
Young people are often described as the changemakers of society, the future leaders, and the hope of our world. From advocating for the environment to spearheading social justice causes, the young people of today undoubtedly have the potential to change our world for the better. Having said that, one must question if this potential is somewhat overshadowed by charges of laziness, selfishness, irresponsibility et. cetera that are often levelled, sometimes legitimately I might add, against the younger generation. In this essay, I assess if the actions of todayâs youths truly, on balance, lead us to a brighter future by exploring the impact they are making in the domains of education, environment, and technology. |
Students, you must have heard of the PEEL method by now. We introduce the POINT in the first sentence, ELABORATE on the point, then substantiate with EVIDENCE or EXAMPLES , and finally, we round it all off by LINKING back to the point.
It sounds easy enough, doesnât it?
Each body paragraph should only discuss one main idea , and only one! Introduce the main idea in your topic sentence (the first sentence of your body paragraph), not after youâve given your example or when youâre wrapping up the paragraph.
A good topic sentence is straightforward and clear .
Here is an example of a coherent and concise topic sentence:
After you have crafted your topic sentence, itâs time to elaborate on your main point. A well-developed body paragraph elaborates by delving deeper into the main point and substantiating with relevant examples or evidence.
For our point on âeducationâ, consider asking and answering the following questions:
a. Your essay must not be example-driven ! It must always be point-driven.
b. Remember to make the link from your examples/ evidence back to your topic sentence. This illustrates the relevance and strength of your evidence and reinforces your main point.
For our example, a coherent body paragraph could look like this:
[ ] In the sphere of education, youth activists are making positive changes by advocating to make education available to girls in less developed societies. [ ] It is because of their efforts that young women formerly deprived of education, due to reasons like patriarchal mindsets, are now able to access learning. [ ] A notable example is the Pakistani activist, Malala Yousafzai, who began her activism by bravely speaking out against the Talibanâs ban on education for girls. Her story did much to raise awareness about the existing barriers to education. She also co-founded the Malala Fund, which advocates for policy changes to prioritize girls’ education globally. Partnering with UNESCO, Malalaâs fund has helped over 5,000 girls in countries like Egypt and Tanzania gain access to education. [ ] By giving these girls an education and helping them out of the poverty cycle, activists like Malala are helping to raise global literacy rates and reduce problems associated with poverty. Society gets a chance to benefit from what these young women can contribute to the workforce. [ ] It is clear the tireless efforts of these activists have made significant impact in the education domain. |
|
Many students just reiterate the points in conclusion. But that is⌠you guessed it, boring. Last impression lasts! You want to provide an insight to this issue to demonstrate your maturity of thought. Apart from summarising your points, link your conclusion back to the introduction so that your essay comes a full circle. You can also use a quote or thought-provoking question for readers to make their own conclusion.
Check out this conclusion:I conclude by pointing out that it is unfair to generalise all young people; in every generation, there will be individuals who give that generation a bad name and those who, as this question suggests, make the world a better place. As shown in this essay, many youths in this generation are attempting to make an impact in different segments of society. But whether the efforts of these young trailblazers are, on balance, bettering the world is still a matter of debate. Furthermore, whether these efforts ultimately result in lasting positive changes depends not just on young people, but also on global leaders and international organisations. So perhaps the real question we should be asking is this: how can we, and not just the young people, work together to change this world for the better? |
Students, this is how you tackle a discursive essay. Try applying these tips to one of the topics above!
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Table of contents
If you’re pursuing a university degree, writing various assignments is unavoidable. Like it or not, you’ll have to draft at least a few every semester. Among other paper types, teachers favor discursive essays to encourage students to express a neutral standpoint regarding a given issue.
Moreover, this academic piece tests whether you possess polished writing and critical thinking skills. Besides your opinion, you’d also have to provide reliable evidence as a backup for your claim. Hence, a decent discursive essay requires thorough research and preparation.
But what should you pay attention to when writing the first draft ? Is pure talent enough, or are there other elements that make a successful manuscript? Below, we unravel the path to an A+ paper!
A discursive essay aims to elaborate on a given topic in a balanced way. The subject matter is often a dilemma or issue, so there are usually two or three possible solutions. Hence, the ideal piece must include all sides of the problem and present objective and all-encompassing evidence about the topic.
The writer must maintain an impersonal style to avoid polarizing things and being biased. Many students hire a custom essay writing service because they either take one side or impose their views on the matter. As a result, they end up with an argumentative paper, which is entirely different.
The primary purpose of a discursive essay is to unveil the truth by exploring various topic-related arguments. Therefore, proper research, pondering the issue, and thinking critically, are critical aspects of the writing process.
Though you might easily confuse discursive writing with other articles, the differences are striking. Let’s see what sets them apart and define their bordering points.
Both kinds of papers come from the same family. They discuss a topic by revealing facts and supporting them with examples. The main difference is that in argumentative works, one standpoint prevails. Though they list and acknowledge all arguments, the emphasis revolves around one point.
Ideally, argumentative writing aims to persuade the audience to adopt a position. The writer presents the claims in a way that convinces the reader to pick a side. Conversely, the discursive essay explains the facts objectively but never urges the reader to shift views.
The purpose of a descriptive essay is to convey a picture for the readers to imagine. To this end, the author uses versatile adjectives and adverbs that help deliver the initial message. Moreover, comparisons, contrasts, and sensory figures of speech are inevitable if you want to create an eye-catching piece.
In contrast, discursive essays provide hard facts free of metaphors, idioms, and similes. The underlying purpose is to inform the readers and not engage their senses with flowery words. When you need to describe information in more detail, the descriptions should be as short and accurate as possible but never overly decorative.
Storytelling requires you to conceptualize a narration . In this case, your account can be informal and include descriptive writing elements. Since you have to hook the interest of the audience, the introduction and conclusion must be attention-grabbing and thought-provoking.
These papers follow a structure that usually involves a twist or unexpected events. Besides telling a story, you can also use this style for writing a character analysis essay for college. The smoother your retelling technique, the more successful your work will be.
With discursive essays, the primary focus is on facts and evidence. Hence, avoid weaving a tale because you might easily stray from the central idea. As a result, you can lose your target and omit the critical data you’re trying to present.
As with any academic work, you must write in a specific outline . To some extent, this venture resembles thematic essay writing because you’re elaborating on a concrete topic and including a clearly-defined thesis statement.
The typical structure of a discursive essay doesn’t differ much from that of other academic papers. It is usually a five or six-paragraph work that includes an introduction, three or more body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Here’s what a standard structure should look like :
Though you might follow the layout presented above and get all your standpoints in order, there are a few minor aspects you mustn’t neglect. Pay attention to the following:
Writing a discursive essay can be challenging, but with the help of PapersOwl and its cheap essay writers , you can create a well-structured, argumentative essay in no time. Our writers have the skills and experience to craft an essay that will help you make your point effectively.
Before you sit down and start brainstorming ideas, read a few samples online. This way, you’ll get the hang of the writing process and what each paragraph must include. Most importantly, stay unprejudiced and leave your feelings behind. Instead, concentrate on building and supporting your argumentation.
While the introduction is usually a fraction of the final work, it is critical. In it, you catch the reader’s attention and present your topic. Hence, ensure you make it as engaging and enlightening as possible. Moreover, the length of this part should be about 10% of the entire assignment.
The discursive essay introduction should contain a few sentences that compress the general idea. Hence, brevity and conciseness are your best shot at delivering the relevance of your subject matter to the public.
Once finished, use the introduction to define the core of the body paragraphs. If you have difficulties, order a professional service to write your essay for money and pick your writer, depending on the topic’s complexity.
However, if you decide to proceed with the discursive essay yourself, put maximum effort into the opening paragraph. It’s advisable to give the strongest arguments first and then continue with the other standpoints. Also, don’t mix different points in a single paragraph but elaborate on one position at a given time.
Finally, take time to brainstorm and present your counterarguments. All statements must be objective and show your impartiality on the matter. When developing the body paragraphs, cite credible references like journals, statistics, and other supporting evidence.
You must write a conclusion as the final paragraph of your manuscript. Similar to the introduction, this part aims to frame the central idea in simple words. So, if you wonder how to write a discursive essay conclusion, summarize all points stated and give an impartial opinion.
In addition, restate the mentioned arguments only and never introduce new information. Last, it would be ideal if your summary encourages future discussion among the audience. Your recommendations and predictions on the topic should also stimulate further research.
Here are some essay writing tips worth considering for a perfect outcome. The same ideas are relevant for writing a poetry essay with ease for university. Tick each hack when reviewing your final copy.
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The previous chapter describes a discursive essay as a form of critical essay that attempts to provide the reader with a balanced argument on a topic, supported by evidence. This chapter examines the structure in increased depth.
Consider how you want your reader to move through your arguments for and against your controlling ideas. When you write your essay outline sentence in the introduction, the controlling ideas should appear in the same order as they will be organised within the essay body. For example, in an essay about artificial intelligence, if the essay outline sentence states âThis essay will argue how the influence of AI may impact the health, military, and industrial sectors of society and whether the benefits outweigh the negative ramifications on humanityâs futureâ, then the body paragraphs must follow the same sequence â health, military, and industrial sectors.
For each of these controlling ideas, there must be both a supportable claim and counter claim. As the outline sentence states, the essay will discuss âwhether the benefits outweigh the negative ramifications on humanityâs future.â Therefore, both sides of the argument must be presented, both perspectives, in a nonbiased manner.
As you begin to write your essay outline, include your supportable claims and counter claims in the body paragraphs. Go as far as to note sources that may be used as supporting evidence. Do not forget to synthesize your academic sources. Synthesizing simply means combining. Instead of summarising main points from each text in turn, you combine the key ideas and findings of multiple sources to make an overall point. At its most basic level it involves looking at the similarities and differences between all your sources (this is examined in week 16 of TPP Academic English ).
Note the focus here is on the non-bracketed sections of the paragraph.
Topic sentence and controlling idea: Artificial Intelligence [AI] (topic) within the medical industry (controlling idea â health) is still in the early stages of conception.
Claim: Application of AI in the health sector poses concerns (claim) regarding the use of this technology â Sources: Finlayson et al. (2018); Yanisky-Ravid & Hallisey (2019)
(Elaboration â more information about the claim)
(Evidence -academic research)
Counter claim: Despite these factors (indicates a contrasting idea) , the application of AI within the health sector , when used ethically, has (counter claim) the potential to revolutionize the future of health care â Sources: Topol (2019); Wahl et al. (2018)
Linking sentence: While application of AI within the health sector is significant to the future of humanity, so too is the impact of AI within the military.
NOTE: The topic and (singular) controlling idea are maintained throughout the paragraph. The linking sentence links AI to the next controlling idea â military use.
Once you have outlined your entire essay, including where you will use your academic sources, you are ready to write a draft discursive essay and flesh out your ideas. Remember that your reader has not done the same level of reading as you have on your chosen topic and be sure to walk them through your arguments step-by-step. Do not assume they understand the subtle connections between your assertions, evidence, and conclusions â make them obvious. Use good, clear signposting (see Chapter 20) and introduce your sources using reporting verbs (see Chapter 14). Remember good, clear, academic paragraph structure also (see Chapter 22).
Once at university you will not have your hand held through essay writing. There will most likely not be any time allocated in class to write or research. It is also unlikely that you will be provided with a template for assignment writing. Therefore, take every opportunity to learn the expected structures and formatting while preparing for future academic writing. It is your responsibility as a student to seek clarification from your teacher if there is something you do not understand.
While universities should provide model essays or assignments for students, often the instructions rely on prerequisite knowledge or assumed understanding of academic writing. Do not be afraid to ask questions. It is highly likely that other students in your class have similar questions and lack the initiative to come forward. Remember teachers/ tutors/ lecturers are there to teach and often they are a vastly untapped resource. Make an appointment or try to catch your teacher before or after class if itâs a quick question.
What many people do not know is that assignment formatting is aligned to the referencing style. Therefore, an assignment in MLA or Chicago style referencing will have different formatting to APA 7th ed. This is a question that needs to be answered by your lecturer, though below is a basic guide for formatting according to APA 7th edition and UQ College guidelines.
APA does not specify a single font or set of fonts however it is recommended you use sans serif fonts such as 11-point Calibri, 11-point Arial (university assignments).
Title Page:
APA 7 instructions for formatting the title pages of student papers (high school, college, or university courses). The following should be double line-spaced and centered vertically, that is, it should sit in the middle of the title page. However, the title page information should be centered in the upper half of the page.
The entire paper should be double line-spaced, including the title page, abstract, and reference list.
Title page information: DO NOT include sub-headings on the title page and follow the order as set out.
Title of the Paper (a mix of upper and lowercase; any word four letters or more should begin with a capital. It should be written in bold font and not contain abbreviations)
Authorâs Name (thatâs you)
Student ID (All assessments should include your eight / 8 digit student identification number, found on your ID card)
Class ID (every tutorial class has an allocated class line or number, please include this also)
Institutional Affiliation (UQ College)
Course number and name (ENGL1002 Academic English)
Instructor name (Do not include titles such as Dr. or Prof.)
Assignment due date (Written in full â September 30, 2021)
Assignment Topic (state the selected assignment topic)
APA does not use anything in the footer, however the paper does need a header with a page number and a copy of your thesis statement.
On the title page you will have the phrase Running Header: (no quotation marks and followed by a semi-colon before your thesis statement. The thesis statement begins with a capital letter) followed by your title or, in the case of your discursive essay, the thesis statement . Technically, the running header should be no more than 50 characters, including letters, spaces, and punctuation. Though in the case of the discursive essay, it is more important to your instructor / grader to have the thesis statement available to refer to on each page.
In the header and footer tab (click âInsertâ, âedit headerâ) you can make the header on the first page different to the rest of the paper by checking the box that says âDifferent First Page.â In all headers that follow , you will not need the Running Header title, only the thesis statement . You can also decrease the Header margin from the top and use a smaller, less obtrusive, font â no smaller than 10 point font.
Running Header: The application of artificial intelligence is worrying to humanity and should be avoided, however there is a consensus that artificial intelligence promotes a promising future for humanity.
All following headers would only contain the thesis statement without the âRunning Headerâ title.
You must also number each page, including the title page . In the header, tab to the far right , click the arrow on âPage Numberâ on the far left, then âCurrent Positionâ and finally, âPlain Numberâ. This will give you running page numbers, beginning on the title page. The number must appear in the top right-hand corner of the paper and must not include the word page or any abbreviation such as p., page 1 of.
Please note, these instructions are for Microsoft Word and your personal device may vary.
If you have questions regarding any aspect of your assignment, please do not hesitate to ask your teacher for assistance.
Showing no prejudice for or against something; impartial.
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Table of contents.
Introduction
Discursive essay writing tips, discursive essay structure, examples of discursive essays, picking the right discursive essay topics, discursive essay format, crafting a strong discursive essay outline, writing an effective discursive essay introduction, nailing the discursive essay conclusion.
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to write a discursive essay effectively. If you’re unfamiliar with this type of essay or want to improve your skills, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will cover How to Write a Discursive Essay , examples, and strategies to help you craft a compelling discursive essay.
Are you ready to master this art of writing ? This article will explain a discursive essay and explore various aspects such as writing tips, structure, examples, and format. So, let’s dive right in and unveil the key elements of an impressive discursive essay.
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of writing a discursive essay , let’s take a moment to understand its nature and purpose. A discursive essay presents a balanced argument on a particular topic by exploring different perspectives. It requires the writer to consider different viewpoints, present evidence, and critically analyze the subject matter.
Writing a discursive essay can be challenging, but you can excel in this art form with the right approach. Here are some valuable tips that will help you write a discursive essay effectively:
Following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to write an impressive discursive essay that effectively presents your arguments and engages your readers.
A well-structured discursive essay enhances readability and ensures that your arguments are coherent. Here’s a suggested structure that you can follow:
By adhering to this structure, your discursive essay will be well-organized and easy for readers to follow.
To gain a better understanding of how discursive essays are written, let’s explore a couple of examples:
Introduction: The growing influence of social media in society.
Main Body: Discussing the positive and negative aspects of social media on communication, mental health, privacy, and relationships.
Conclusion: Weighing the overall impact of social media and proposing ways to harness its strengths and mitigate its drawbacks.
Introduction: Introducing the debate on school uniforms.
Main Body: Exploring the arguments supporting school uniforms (such as fostering discipline and equality) and arguments against them (such as limiting self-expression).
Conclusion: Evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of school uniforms and suggesting potential compromises.
These examples illustrate how discursive essays analyze various perspectives on a topic while maintaining a balanced approach.
Choosing an engaging and relevant topic is crucial to capturing your readers’ attention. Here are some popular discursive essay topics to consider:
When selecting a topic, ensure it is captivating, allows for multiple viewpoints, and is backed by sufficient research material.
While there is flexibility in formatting a discursive essay, adhering to a standard format enhances clarity and readability. Consider following this general format:
A consistent format will make your essay more professional and easier to navigate.
Before writing your discursive essay, creating an outline that organizes your thoughts and arguments effectively is essential. Here’s a sample outline to help you get started:
I. Introduction
B. Background information
C. Thesis statement
II. Main Body
A. Argument 1
1. Supporting evidence
2. Examples
B. Argument 2
C. Argument 3
1 . Supporting evidence
2 . Examples
III. Counterarguments and Rebuttals
A. Counterargument 1
1 . Rebuttal evidence
B. Counterargument 2
C . Counterargument 3
IV. Conclusion
A. Summary of main points
B . Restating the thesis statement
C. Call to action or thought-provoking statement
By structuring your ideas in an outline, you’ll have a clear roadmap for your essay, ensuring that your arguments flow logically.
The introduction of your discursive essay plays a vital role in capturing your reader’s attention and setting the tone for the essay. Here’s how you can make your introduction compelling:
Start With an Engaging Hook: Begin with a captivating opening sentence, such as a surprising statistic, an intriguing question, or a compelling anecdote related to your topic.
Provide Necessary Background Information: Briefly explain the topic and its relevance to the reader.
Present Your Thesis Statement: Clearly state your main argument or thesis, which will guide your essay’s direction and focus.
You’ll establish a strong foundation for your discursive essay by crafting an engaging and informative introduction.
The conclusion of your discursive essay should effectively summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression on your readers. Here’s how you can achieve this:
Summarize the Main Points: Briefly recap the key arguments and perspectives discussed in the essay.
Restate Your Thesis Statement: Reiterate your main argument while considering the various perspectives.
Call to Action or Thought-Provoking Statement: End your essay with a compelling statement or encourage readers to explore the topic further, sparking discussion and reflection.
By crafting a powerful conclusion, you’ll leave a lasting impact on your readers, ensuring they walk away with a clear understanding of your essay’s message.
Congratulations! You’ve now comprehensively understood how to write a discursive essay effectively. Remember to choose an engaging topic, conduct thorough research, create a clear structure, and present balanced arguments while considering different perspectives. Following these guidelines and incorporating our tips, you’ll be well-equipped to craft a compelling discursive essay.
So, start writing your discursive essay following our comprehensive guide. Unlock your writing potential and captivate your readers with an impressive discursive essay that showcases your analytical skills and ability to present compelling arguments. Happy writing!
What is a discursive essay, and how does it differ from other types of essays.
A discursive essay explores a particular topic by presenting different perspectives and arguments. It differs from other essays, emphasizing balanced, unbiased discussion rather than a single, strong stance.
Select a topic that allows for multiple viewpoints and has room for discussion. Controversial issues or topics with various opinions work well, providing ample material for exploration.
A discursive essay typically has an introduction, several body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction sets the stage, the body paragraphs present different viewpoints, and the conclusion summarizes the key points and your stance.
While you don’t have to take a definite side, you should present a balanced view. However, some essay prompts may ask you to argue for or against a particular position.
Begin with a hook to capture the reader’s attention, provide background information, and clearly state the issue you will discuss. End the introduction with a thesis statement that outlines your approach.
Yes, maintain a formal and objective tone. Avoid using first-person pronouns and aim for clarity and precision in your language.
Include at least two or three well-developed viewpoints. Ensure that each paragraph focuses on a specific aspect or argument related to the topic.
Use transitional phrases to move smoothly from one idea to the next. This helps maintain a logical flow and coherence in your essay.
While you can present your opinions, remaining objective and supporting your views with evidence is crucial. The emphasis should be on presenting a well-rounded discussion rather than expressing personal bias.
Summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs, restate your thesis nuancedly, and offer a closing thought or call to action. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion.
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Effective communication is a cornerstone of academic success, and mastering discursive essays is a crucial step in this journey. Essays for your English class, like discursive essays, are not just academic exercises but opportunities to enhance your analytical and persuasive skills.
In this guide, we’ll explore the intricacies of crafting compelling discursive essays, providing insights and practical tips to help you navigate how to write a discursive essay successfully. Let’s embark on the journey of honing your ability to present balanced viewpoints and articulate your thoughts with clarity and precision.
Discursive essays are versatile, allowing you to argue for or against a topic or present a balanced view. These essays, integral to English classes, foster critical thinking by exploring various perspectives. They come in different forms, such as opinion essays, for and against essays, or essays proposing solutions to problems. Understanding the nature and purpose of discursive essays is crucial for excelling in your English class.
The structure of a discursive essay is straightforward but essential. It has a snappy introduction, persuasive body paragraph and a cohesive conclusion.
In the introduction, set the stage by clearly stating your stance or indicating a balanced view. The body paragraphs are the core, where arguments are built, each paragraph dedicated to a specific aspect of the topic. Finally, the conclusion summarises key points and may include your final position. This structure ensures coherence and clarity.
How to Write an Introduction for a Discursive Essay
The introduction is your chance to captivate readers. Avoid cliches and generalisations; instead, consider opening with a thought-provoking question, a relevant quote, or a surprising statistic.
For example, if your essay is on the impact of technology on education, you might start with, “In an era dominated by screens, is traditional education becoming obsolete?”
Clearly state your stance or intention to present a balanced view.
For instance, “In this essay, we will explore both sides of the debate regarding the influence of technology on education, ultimately arriving at a nuanced perspective.”
How to Write the Body for a Discursive Essay
The body is where your arguments unfold. Divide it into paragraphs, each focused on a specific point. Provide evidence from reputable sources to support your claims. To maintain a smooth transition between paragraphs, use connectives like ‘equally,’ ‘similarly,’ or ‘on the contrary.’ If you’re discussing the positive impact of technology on education, a transition could be, “Similarly, the accessibility of online resources has revolutionised the learning experience.”
How to Write a Conclusion for a Discursive Essay
The conclusion is not a mere repetition but a synthesis of your main findings. Recap key points and, depending on the essay type, state your final position. Express your personal opinion logically, aligning it with the evidence presented in the body. For example, “While technology offers unprecedented opportunities, a balanced approach that preserves the essence of traditional education is vital.”
For personalised guidance and support in mastering discursive essays, consider reaching out to A Team Tuition. Our English academic personal trainers offer valuable insights and assistance tailored to your specific needs.
Whether forming study groups, seeking your teacher’s guidance, or opting for private tutoring and mentoring through A Team Tuition, these avenues can elevate your essay writing skills.
Remember, mastering discursive essays is not just about academic achievement; it’s a lifelong skill that enhances your ability to think critically and communicate effectively. Take the first step toward academic excellence â contact A Team Tuition to schedule your first session and unlock your full potential. Happy writing!
November 17, 2023
You have to choose your topic with great care and research it first to learn more about how to use the obtained information. No matter where your subject takes you, presenting more than one perspective is vital. A discursive essay means that some creative writing has a place. Only such an approach can present a balanced and thought-out example of a successful discursive essay. The only point that must be considered is a critical evaluation of a subject. It means that an author must avoid any biases. Even if some aspects may disturb you or go against your beliefs, do your best to provide varied opinions to present a clear picture, at least in one paragraph.
The information for your discursive essay topic must be chosen from verified, trustworthy academic sources. Construct a smart discussion and guide your audience from one idea to another. A clear thesis statement is a must. It will help you to highlight all the important sides of your chosen or given subject. Most students also find it helpful as they have to narrow things down by presenting different perspectives.
There are several types of discursive essays that you may encounter as a college student. Three of them are the most common, which represent the following:
An opinion type of composition is the most common. The main purpose here is to find a topic first and research it. Once done, you must offer your opinion and support it with arguments. All the opinions that go against yours are also necessary. Remember that stating only one opinion is not an option. You must present both sides of a story before coming up with the final paragraph. Re-state your main claim as well. Your conclusion should allow your audience to pick a side instead of being forced to choose.
The complex aspect here is that you must research the facts that speak for and against a certain topic. You may choose the alcohol problem or the use of artificial intelligence in the field of healthcare as an example. The question of your research must be stated correctly and clearly. An answer must be accessible, represent academic research, and be done step-by-step. Present different perspectives and different viewpoints.
Here is where you must state a problem and explain why it matters. When asked to compose a solution to a problem discursive essay, focus on a solution and provide it. The facts and the evidence play a vital role here because a good example always matters. It is always beneficial if you can include some prior research or quote another researcher.
Important : As a way to avoid confusion, one must remember that two additional types of discursive writing can be met in most colleges these days. The talk is about argumentative writing and persuasive writing tasks.
An argumentative essay can be identified as a topic that you research with due care and depth. You still have to collect information and present it to your target audience as an argument in a body paragraph.
A persuasive essay , as the name implies, is where you persuade or convince your readers with the help of examples. The task of making someone see things your way is also an academic type of discursive writing. A different perspective must be explained before you present your main idea.
Regardless of the type that you are asked to present, these five steps are essential:
Choose something that you know well or subjects that can be researched easily. For example, if you would like to talk about whether violent video games must be banned, research it first. The same is true for using school uniforms in the United States vs Great Britain. A thought-provoking question may be presented in the first paragraph. Discussing various viewpoints, some people may talk about traditions, while others will mention economics. As you work on your discursive essay, you must highlight more than one fact and present different opinions correctly.
When you already know the basics about your topic, continue taking notes. You should also examine essay examples. It helps narrow things down and ensures that you do not accidentally forget some facts. For example, you may write down important dates, names, or statistical information. The more you add, the better your discursive essay will be. At the same time, remember not to overdo it, as it can turn your writing into an informative essay!
The next step is to find an argument that can explain, convince, and make your readers see the point. Your essays must focus on one argument. Do not add bias to an argument, but only work with the facts. A discursive essay introduction must have a hook. It will make your writing less biased and more balanced. The main evidence with your final position must be presented in a thesis-like form.
When composing a discursive essay’s body paragraphs, you must consider more than one opinion. For example, if we take the school uniform debate, we can discuss how it can unite all children and decrease poverty. Then, we can discuss how school uniforms help support school traditions. If some people find it outdated, take your time to research why it is so!
Consider coming up with a clear structure or pattern that can help your readers see your points. Choose your discursive essay format next. The most accessible and popular discursive essay structure example is given below:
A Discursive Essay Introduction – Main Argument – Evidence – Second Paragraph Argument – Example – Third Argument – Importance – Opposing Argument – Explanation with Supporting Evidence- Conclusion. Â
When and if necessary, you may add a thesis after an introduction if the task is to find a good solution to a specified problem. Always consult your grading rubric and your teacher to be sure!
As a way to overcome initial confusion and set the tone of discursive writing, let’s ask several important questions:
These eight questions must be asked before you start writing. Once you find the answers, writing and thinking about your writing will be much easier. Remember that all of your claims and counterclaims must be supported with examples and align with each other. Provide a healthy balance between the pros and cons of a certain issue or a problem you choose to discuss. Make your conclusion in a logical manner.
When you choose a topic, do not make it harder or more complex than it has to be. Keep your writing accessible and use persuasive writing techniques. Start with a claim followed by an example. If it needs to be clarified, add an explanation to make understanding all the different viewpoints easier.
If you are stuck with the lack of counterarguments to your claim, you may add a simple âarguments againstâ tag to your search string in Google or any other search engine. It is also helpful if you start with a Google Scholar or similar research databases. Look for opinion essays or argumentative essays as you research. Seeing what other researchers have to say always helps to find unusual opinions and fill the gaps as you construct your discourse.
Accidental mistakes are always possible, but have no fear â we have a checklist of things you must do and a list of the most common mistakes that must be avoided in the writing process!
The use of formal language and an impersonal tone is recommended. It is not only about what you think but also about an essay that informs and sets the main arguments. | Avoid the use of colloquial language as you explain things. It is not a personal essay or something creative! Do not use overly short paragraphs or overfill your paper with endless statistics. |
Your paragraphs must be developed in the best way possible. Write from your most important different arguments to the least ones. Separate paragraphs if and when necessary. | Do not keep things vague, as your readers will not appreciate it. If you can do so, provide sufficient details to explain things. An overly generalized paper with a vague body paragraph is never good! |
Always check with the source data. Work within a specified writing style. Sort your sources alphabetically unless your writing style requires otherwise. | Using personal examples is not recommended as you work with different arguments. These cannot be verified or used as a piece of evidence. Some cases, like a personal interview or first-hand data as a part of some project, may be acceptable. When in doubt, always consult your academic advisor. |
Use topic sentences to start your paragraphs. It will help to create and balance viewpoints related. | Avoid adding any new information in the conclusion part. |
Writing a discursive essay, add an introductory paragraph where you introduce your subject. Talk about a problem and explain what your readers will read below. | Never add information you cannot support with a piece of evidence. Making a claim is insufficient if no example is used to back it up. |
Provide sufficient examples and data samples that can help to support your claims. | An overly emotional language must be avoided, even if itâs an argumentative piece of writing. Keep things strict when writing a discursive essay! |
Remember to edit and proofread your work aloud if you wish to make things impressive. It is one of those things that help to improve readability. You have to keep things accessible and use persuasive and explanatory language. It must be close to an argumentative essay writing. Besides, proofreading your work aloud always helps avoid mistakes and correct them. It might take more time but always pays off in the end!
Choosing a good discursive essay topic may appear more challenging than it seems. If you cannot find a good essay-type idea, brainstorm some of these topics below with our brief explanations:
This topic may talk about how the use of video games can lead to violence from one side. Talk about the media bias and attitude. Then talk about the positive cognitive effect that positively affects our memory and attention. Use all perspectives related to provide evidence and offer valuable insights. A thorough research must be done here!
Although it is one of the most discussed subjects these days, you may choose it as an idea. Talk about how it helps to do things faster yet deters our creativity. You can talk about good examples and quote psychologists, students, and teachers. Providing supporting evidence, you must recap key points and include all the negative aspects as well.
It is a good subject for most college students who listen to rock artists. Think about all the cons and pros, such as attitude or political activism. Do not focus on two or three bands but talk about statistical data before you end up with particular examples. An alternate manner must be used as you work on your main idea, where you offer various perspectives and start a balanced discussion.
You must avoid a personal bias and never use any personal examples. Talk about how this problem exists and why this particular topic is so important. Use statistical data next to present ideas. Explain why bullying occurs on social media by offering multiple perspectives. Provide examples with a logical structure. Talk about the solutions and initiatives similar to working on an argumentative essay.
If you choose engineering or similar discursive essay topics, think about making your discursive essay more accessible. Talk about the presence of solar energy and how affordable and well-known it is. Add more opposing viewpoints, and share some practical tips. Then make a table with the facts that speak for and against your essay topic sentence. Come up with a conclusion to sum things up!
You can talk about anything you wish to discuss. If some topic is uncommon, add the words âimportant factsâ and âstatsâ as you research. It will make things easier as you try to locate your sources. If a topic sentence has already been provided, seek relevant research papers to find some trustworthy academic resources.
A strong conclusion must re-state a thesis with the main argument to help your readers reach their conclusion. It has to sum things up and make a call to action. An attention-grabbing element must be used to remind your readers about your problem. Remember that no new ideas or viewpoints can be added to your essay. Anything not supported before in relevant body paragraphs must be eliminated. A conclusion should discuss both sides that speak for and against your essay thesis.
No strict length is usually specified. Including an introduction with a thesis and at least three body paragraphs is important. Since we have to add two or three counter-arguments, they may be in one or two body paragraphs. A discursive essay conclusion ends up things. It may help you to see how much must be included. Most discursive essays these days vary from 1,500 to 3,000 words for college students. At least three body paragraphs must be included for ideas.
A good persuasive essay only focuses on one point related to a problem. It means that you must talk about what you believe in. A discursive essay writing must talk about three to five different opinions. Persuasion essays only bring up a topic with a persuasion, while discourse is always about an explanation and a proper academic analysis.
If you choose a topic for a summer camp for boys and girls, you may talk about gender segregation in the past. This means that starting with statistical data can help set the tone and make a comparison. This way, you can talk about the past and the present by explaining how opinions have changed. An interview, basic facts, sample data, and a good timetable can be good examples of learning how to write a discursive essay.
As a way to assist you in learning how to write a discursive essay, take a closer look at some of these academic resources:
All of these links will assist you in composing a successful discursive essay. Make sure to take your time and always remember to proofread!
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Published by Grace Graffin at March 28th, 2022 , Revised On July 26, 2023
You can see the word âdiscursiveâ is close to the word âdiscourseâ; in short, it means involving discussion. “In a discursive essay, you explore the discussion and perspectives surrounding a topic. Then proceeding with reason and argument, you reach a conclusion in which you may or may not agree with one of the perspectives you have presented.”
Example: The discursive essay discusses ideas and opinions on a topic without the aim of persuading the reader to take a given view. It is your unbiased presenting of differing viewpoints that allows the reader to decide which is best. This allows you to present the topic from several viewpoints, showing the pros and cons of them all.
During the Renaissance, discursive essays were quite popular, though they have become much less so over time. Many consider the discursive essay to be one of the more difficult to approach. As such, many students struggle with them, and it is quite common to seek essay writing assistance .
The purpose of a discursive essay is to show that there are different and often competing viewpoints around a subject. The subject often raises a controversy or describes a problem requiring a solution. As such, discursive essay assignments are often used when comparing subjective opinions on literary works. Discursive essays highlight different opinions and arguments but do not argue either way.
It is not the authorâs job to solve a problem. The problem could be a long-running one with no solution in sight. For example, in a discursive text, you do not examine a problem or literary text; instead, you discuss the opposing ideas and opinions surrounding them. These essays benefit readers by presenting a collection of various views on a subject all in one place, saving them from doing the research themselves.
Apart from creating the essay, the authorâs role is minimal. That is, the essay should not be a personal opinion piece. The author stands in the centre of the ongoing debate, selects some of the best arguments and presents them to the reader. In this way, the author is more like a facilitator providing a clear view of the arguments surrounding the topic .
The role requires the author to stay mostly neutral, but it is acceptable for authors to take a stance. Whether you include your own stance in the essay is either up to you or your tutor. There is no rule that says you have to. You can clarify where you stand early in the essay, or you can wait until the conclusion.
You should present the views of others in the best possible light; showing balance between the arguments is essential. When presenting othersâ viewpoints, you should not try to prejudice readers or persuade them your view is best. This is not an argumentative essay .
Discursive Essays | Argumentative Essays | |
---|---|---|
Purpose | To give a credible and fair assessment of discussion on a given issue. The essay avoids and emotional language. However, it is not always totally neutral; the writer may take a position in the argument. It is written using well-researched relevant facts and presents both sides of the issue equally. | To convince readers that your position is best by providing supporting evidence. This is done with thorough research that produces valid material to persuade and inform the reader. Although a counterargument is included, it does not need to be in equal balance. |
Style and Structure | As the author is presenting the views of others, the style is impersonal and formal, although it can be acceptable to write in a light-hearted style. It mostly conveys the thoughts of others, not necessarily those of the author. 1. The introduction states the issue the essay looks at. It may or may not assert the authorâs position. It describes exactly what will be covered. 2. Within the body, 3-5 points are discussed from different viewpoints. Arguments and counterarguments are carefully balanced. There are different organisational styles. 3. Paragraphs begin with strong sentences on the issue, and evidence is provided. 4. The conclusion summarises the main points. The position the author takes may be inserted here. | Argumentative essays are in the general style for academic writing. They are slightly less formal in tone than discursive essays. 1. The introduction includes a very concise and accurate thesis statement, which makes clear the authorâs position. 2. The body paragraphs go on to explain with good evidence why this position is correct. The evidence provided will be persuasive. 3. The conclusion restates the writerâs stance, summarises the main points, and invites the reader to agree with the authorâs position. |
Your coursework may require a discursive essay in order to test your ability to find and presenting balanced evidence without bias. In this assignment, you need to make a balanced examination of arguments surrounding a topic, with the option of stating your own position. You are not attempting to settle the debate, only to show the thinking that surrounds it.
Your tutor might not directly say âwrite a discursive essayâ but the essay question will give you a clue. It might be a relatively simple question, or it could just state that there is disagreement on a topic . It will not ask you to give your opinion or direct you to persuade your readers. Your essay is part of a study course, so there will be enough guidance from your tutors.
Here are some title examples that would be best discussed in discursive essays.
There are three main types of discursive essays:
Before you do anything, read the essay question/prompt several times; let it sink in. All the work you undertake will be based on this. If you study remotely and receive the essay prompt digitally, copy it onto paper to make it real. Highlight key words and make sure you thoroughly understand what you are expected to write. Are you being asked to analyse , discuss , or explain something? These keywords are important to understand.
Before you even write the first line of the introduction, you have to carry out research. Trying to write an essay before doing research is like polishing a car before washing it. Researching is a way of learning about the subject while gathering and filtering information, forming the backbone of your coursework. The research you carry out should look into the subject and more importantly, also investigate the broad range of opinions and evidence surrounding it. Your research should not focus solely on the argument you favour but should cover other views equally.
Some issues have a huge number of opinions surrounding them; you cannot include them all. Using too many will confuse the reader and make a conclusion difficult. Also, you won’t have the word limit to include everything you discover. Ask yourself if you have considered the most relevant viewpoints. Working through your discovered material, you can determine what to include based on appropriateness. It can become overwhelming, but there is plenty of help out there.
Much of your research will be done online. But you should not disregard relevant books and other print sources, some of which are also online. There is also television and video to consider, and depending on the subject, you can ask family members and friends. Variety in your research shows you have really made an effort to cover all bases.
Always consider the credibility of any source you use, and always note where you found it. You will need this information to complete your bibliography. When you feel you have enough material and researching has given you a richer understanding of the subject, you can start writing.
The first thing to write is an outline ; think of it as a framework. You are going to fill this framework with good material. Remember that every word you put into it will have to justify its inclusion. For a discursive essay, the structure will likely follow the usual format of title, introduction , main body , and conclusion , followed by a reference section.
Example: The introduction should touch on all the points youâre going to cover, even if only broadly. It should provide a concise description of the topic and what your focus will be. Everything you discuss in the body should come under the umbrella created by the introduction.
From the introduction, the reader should understand where the essay is going; it should not be a mystery tour. This is especially important if the subject is very broad. You can state your position on the subject in the introduction, but it is not necessary.
The discursive essay does not have a formal thesis statement , as with other essay types . This gives you the option of opening with something to really hook the reader. For example, any of these can be used:
After this is a rhetorical question at the centre of the discussion and a description of what the essay will cover.
Frequently asked questions, should i analyse evidence in a discursive essay.
Although you will provide evidence in a discursive essay, it is not the same as in persuasive or argumentative essays. For example, if the essay is questioning the correct interpretation of a literary work, you do not analyse or review the literary work. Rather, you look at what others say about it and present that for the reader. What you present are ideas. And you support these ideas with quotations from other people, although itâs possible to do this by referring to your own experiences.
You do not have to take a position on the subject you write about in a discursive essay. Your tutor might even instruct you not to. If you decide to tell the reader your position, you briefly say what you think and why. It shouldnât become a major part of your assignment because this is not a persuasive or argumentative essay. The essay is not based on what you think.
Yes, it makes your work more personal if you do this. You could do this right at the start of the introduction, asking something like, âHave you ever wondered how much information big tech companies hold about you?â A direct question like this can be a useful hook to keep the reader reading. You could say that it reduces formality and brings in familiarity, but used minimally, maybe just once, it can be effective. Generally, the discursive essay should be quite formal and impersonal.
The conclusion is the most underrated and critical section of an essay paper. Here is all you need to know about how to write a great essay conclusion.
A good essay introduction will set the tone for succeeding parts. Unsure about how to write an essay introduction? This guide will help you to get going.
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What does a discursive essay mean? We have an answer to this and many other questions in our article. Welcome to the world of ideal essay writing. Ever wanted to build buzz for your text? We know you do. And we also know how you can do that with minimum effort and little diligence. So forget about your trivial academic essays - they are not as exciting as a discursive one. Ready to dive in?
For all those who wanted to know the discursive essay meaning, here it is: a discursive essay is a writing piece, in which the focal element is devoted to an argument. That is, discursive writing presupposes developing a statement that ignites active discussions. After this essay, readers should be motivated to express their own opinions regarding the topic. Discursive essays have much in common with argumentative and persuasive papers, but these are not to be confused. Despite some similarities, discursive writing is a separate type of work that has its specific features and nuances. What we do want you to remember about discursive essays is that you need to concentrate on the power of thought rather than factology and pieces of evidence. In short, your mind is the only tool required to persuade and interest others on the topic you choose.
Now that we’ve figured out what is discursive writing, it’s time to focus more on the “skeleton” of discursive essay. Like any other piece of writing, discursive essays have clear requirements that help to glue their elements into a coherent paper. By the way, there are many writing services available which can help you present an excellent academic essay. So if you need professional assistance with your task, check them out. But if you want to do it yourself, you can simply take any discursive essay example from the web and use it as a starting point for your paper.
As for the discursive structure itself, you need to start your essay with an introduction in the first place. Create a lead-in that’ll spark the reader’s interest and make them genuinely responsive to the topic. Also, make sure that your introduction is neither small nor extensive. Stick to the optimal amount of words that’ll be sufficient for readers to get the general idea of your essay.
Another essential aspect of an effective intro is your opinion. It’s worthy of note that some discursive essays might require no particular stance on the topic. In situations like this, wait until the end of an essay comes, and only then share your personal view on the matter. This way, readers will understand the neutral tone throughout the piece, shape their own thoughts about it, and later decide whether to agree with yours or not.
In the paragraphs that follow, you’ll need to accentuate on the argumentation. There’s no room for vague and unarticulate expressions at this point. Quite the contrary – you need to unfold your statements consecutively, in a couple of paragraphs, to depict the entire image of your stance for or against the topic. And don’t forget to link your discursive text to supporting evidence.
The last section is the conclusion. Your finishing remarks should clearly articulate your position toward this or that issue, with a close connection to the main ideas in the essay body.
To construct a good thesis for your discursive essay, you’ll need to describe the general stance your work will argue. Here, it’s important to back up the thesis statement with points. These are the opinions that support your thesis and allow to create an affirmative structure for the entire paper.
The points you use while writing a discursive essay need to flow smoothly so that readers could see a logical organization of the work. For this, you can use transition words that’ll make your paper easily readable and crisp. For example, if you want to list some points, opt for such words as firstly, to begin with, secondly, lastly, finally, etc. If you wish to point at advantages or disadvantages, consider using these transitions: the main/greatest/ first advantage of⌠is âŚ, another positive side isâŚ, an additional drawback is, another negative aspect ofâŚis…
The introductory part is the critical aspect of creating a good discursive essay. In this section, specific attention should centralize on what your topic is all about. Therefore, it needs to be presented with clarity, be informative, and attention-grabbing. How to make your intro sentence for discursive essay memorable? You can start with a spicy anecdote to add humor to discussion. Another powerful way for hooking readers is stating a quote or opinion of experts and famous influencers. This will add to the credibility of your statements, making readers more motivated to read your work.
Your discursive essay ending is the climax of your argument, a final link that organically locks up a chain of previously described points. This part is devoted to the restatement of the main arguments that sum up your attitude to the topic. And just like with introduction, the conclusion should leave a trace in readers’ minds. To achieve this result, your closing paragraph should include a call to action, warning or any other food for thought that will encourage people to ponder on the issue and make relevant conclusions.
The ideas for discursive papers are so versatile that it’s hard to compile all of them in one list. For such list will extend to kilometers. However, we’ve collected some of them for you to facilitate your work on this task. So here are some discursive essay examples you can use any time:
As you understand now, discursive writing definition and discursive essay definition are not as scary as they seem from the first glance. Even though the art of this type of paper is hard to master, over time, you’ll notice significant progress. All you need for this is practice and a little bit of patience to understand the subtle nuances of this task and develop the skill of writing confidently. And if you ever wondered what is an essay, a team of professional academic essay writers can give a helping hand and provide you with a top-notch paper.
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Published on September 4, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.
An essay is a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. There are many different types of essay, but they are often defined in four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive essays.
Argumentative and expository essays are focused on conveying information and making clear points, while narrative and descriptive essays are about exercising creativity and writing in an interesting way. At university level, argumentative essays are the most common type.Â
Essay type | Skills tested | Example prompt |
---|---|---|
Has the rise of the internet had a positive or negative impact on education? | ||
Explain how the invention of the printing press changed European society in the 15th century. | ||
Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself. | ||
Describe an object that has sentimental value for you. |
In high school and college, you will also often have to write textual analysis essays, which test your skills in close reading and interpretation.
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Argumentative essays, expository essays, narrative essays, descriptive essays, textual analysis essays, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about types of essays.
An argumentative essay presents an extended, evidence-based argument. It requires a strong thesis statement âa clearly defined stance on your topic. Your aim is to convince the reader of your thesis using evidence (such as quotations ) and analysis.
Argumentative essays test your ability to research and present your own position on a topic. This is the most common type of essay at college levelâmost papers you write will involve some kind of argumentation.
The essay is divided into an introduction, body, and conclusion:
The example below is a paragraph from the body of an argumentative essay about the effects of the internet on education. Mouse over it to learn more.
A common frustration for teachers is studentsâ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: âa reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writingâ (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the siteâs own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always âread the references and check whether they really do support what the article saysâ (âWikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,â 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.
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An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a topic. It doesnât require an original argument, just a balanced and well-organized view of the topic.
Expository essays test your familiarity with a topic and your ability to organize and convey information. They are commonly assigned at high school or in exam questions at college level.
The introduction of an expository essay states your topic and provides some general background, the body presents the details, and the conclusion summarizes the information presented.
A typical body paragraph from an expository essay about the invention of the printing press is shown below. Mouse over it to learn more.
The invention of the printing press in 1440 changed this situation dramatically. Johannes Gutenberg, who had worked as a goldsmith, used his knowledge of metals in the design of the press. He made his type from an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, whose durability allowed for the reliable production of high-quality books. This new technology allowed texts to be reproduced and disseminated on a much larger scale than was previously possible. The Gutenberg Bible appeared in the 1450s, and a large number of printing presses sprang up across the continent in the following decades. Gutenberg’s invention rapidly transformed cultural production in Europe; among other things, it would lead to the Protestant Reformation.
A narrative essay is one that tells a story. This is usually a story about a personal experience you had, but it may also be an imaginative exploration of something you have not experienced.
Narrative essays test your ability to build up a narrative in an engaging, well-structured way. They are much more personal and creative than other kinds of academic writing . Writing a personal statement for an application requires the same skills as a narrative essay.
A narrative essay isnât strictly divided into introduction, body, and conclusion, but it should still begin by setting up the narrative and finish by expressing the point of the storyâwhat you learned from your experience, or why it made an impression on you.
Mouse over the example below, a short narrative essay responding to the prompt âWrite about an experience where you learned something about yourself,â to explore its structure.
Since elementary school, I have always favored subjects like science and math over the humanities. My instinct was always to think of these subjects as more solid and serious than classes like English. If there was no right answer, I thought, why bother? But recently I had an experience that taught me my academic interests are more flexible than I had thought: I took my first philosophy class.
Before I entered the classroom, I was skeptical. I waited outside with the other students and wondered what exactly philosophy would involveâI really had no idea. I imagined something pretty abstract: long, stilted conversations pondering the meaning of life. But what I got was something quite different.
A young man in jeans, Mr. Jonesââbut you can call me Robââwas far from the white-haired, buttoned-up old man I had half-expected. And rather than pulling us into pedantic arguments about obscure philosophical points, Rob engaged us on our level. To talk free will, we looked at our own choices. To talk ethics, we looked at dilemmas we had faced ourselves. By the end of class, Iâd discovered that questions with no right answer can turn out to be the most interesting ones.
The experience has taught me to look at things a little more âphilosophicallyââand not just because it was a philosophy class! I learned that if I let go of my preconceptions, I can actually get a lot out of subjects I was previously dismissive of. The class taught meâin more ways than oneâto look at things with an open mind.
A descriptive essay provides a detailed sensory description of something. Like narrative essays, they allow you to be more creative than most academic writing, but they are more tightly focused than narrative essays. You might describe a specific place or object, rather than telling a whole story.
Descriptive essays test your ability to use language creatively, making striking word choices to convey a memorable picture of what youâre describing.
A descriptive essay can be quite loosely structured, though it should usually begin by introducing the object of your description and end by drawing an overall picture of it. The important thing is to use careful word choices and figurative language to create an original description of your object.
Mouse over the example below, a response to the prompt âDescribe a place you love to spend time in,â to learn more about descriptive essays.
On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.
My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next doorâs dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.
With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and noveltiesâa new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it sheltersâŚ
Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.
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Though every essay type tests your writing skills, some essays also test your ability to read carefully and critically. In a textual analysis essay, you donât just present information on a topic, but closely analyze a text to explain how it achieves certain effects.
A rhetorical analysis looks at a persuasive text (e.g. a speech, an essay, a political cartoon) in terms of the rhetorical devices it uses, and evaluates their effectiveness.
The goal is not to state whether you agree with the authorâs argument but to look at how they have constructed it.
The introduction of a rhetorical analysis presents the text, some background information, and your thesis statement; the body comprises the analysis itself; and the conclusion wraps up your analysis of the text, emphasizing its relevance to broader concerns.
The example below is from a rhetorical analysis of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech . Mouse over it to learn more.
Kingâs speech is infused with prophetic language throughout. Even before the famous âdreamâ part of the speech, Kingâs language consistently strikes a prophetic tone. He refers to the Lincoln Memorial as a âhallowed spotâ and speaks of rising âfrom the dark and desolate valley of segregationâ to âmake justice a reality for all of Godâs children.â The assumption of this prophetic voice constitutes the textâs strongest ethical appeal; after linking himself with political figures like Lincoln and the Founding Fathers, Kingâs ethos adopts a distinctly religious tone, recalling Biblical prophets and preachers of change from across history. This adds significant force to his words; standing before an audience of hundreds of thousands, he states not just what the future should be, but what it will be: âThe whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.â This warning is almost apocalyptic in tone, though it concludes with the positive image of the âbright day of justice.â The power of Kingâs rhetoric thus stems not only from the pathos of his vision of a brighter future, but from the ethos of the prophetic voice he adopts in expressing this vision.
A literary analysis essay presents a close reading of a work of literatureâe.g. a poem or novelâto explore the choices made by the author and how they help to convey the textâs theme. It is not simply a book report or a review, but an in-depth interpretation of the text.
Literary analysis looks at things like setting, characters, themes, and figurative language. The goal is to closely analyze what the author conveys and how.
The introduction of a literary analysis essay presents the text and background, and provides your thesis statement; the body consists of close readings of the text with quotations and analysis in support of your argument; and the conclusion emphasizes what your approach tells us about the text.
Mouse over the example below, the introduction to a literary analysis essay on Frankenstein , to learn more.
Mary Shelleyâs Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, protagonist Victor Frankenstein is a stable representation of the callous ambition of modern science throughout the novel. This essay, however, argues that far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to portray Frankenstein in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creatureâs narrative Frankenstein begins to resembleâeven in his own tellingâthe thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as. This essay begins by exploring the positive portrayal of Frankenstein in the first volume, then moves on to the creatureâs perception of him, and finally discusses the third volumeâs narrative shift toward viewing Frankenstein as the creature views him.
If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!
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At high school and in composition classes at university, youâll often be told to write a specific type of essay , but you might also just be given prompts.
Look for keywords in these prompts that suggest a certain approach: The word âexplainâ suggests you should write an expository essay , while the word âdescribeâ implies a descriptive essay . An argumentative essay might be prompted with the word âassessâ or âargue.â
The vast majority of essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Almost all academic writing involves building up an argument, though other types of essay might be assigned in composition classes.
Essays can present arguments about all kinds of different topics. For example:
An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.
An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesnât have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.
The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.
Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.
If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the âCite this Scribbr articleâ button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.
Caulfield, J. (2023, July 23). The Four Main Types of Essay | Quick Guide with Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved September 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/essay-types/
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Writing discursive essays is a common task that can be encountered in high school and college environments. Mastering the nuances of writing them will be a lot easier with this guide. Our team has prepared recommendations that cover the basics of discursive essays and their format. Additionally, you will find some helpful tips about improving your work. Letâs get started!
đ developing a discursive writing style, đ references, đ§ discursive writing: definition & purpose.
Discursive essays are different from the argumentative and persuasive papers you might be used to. Discursive writing allows students to investigate various topics in depth and present different opinions on particular issues. Creating one involves gathering, reading, and assessing supportive evidence. As with other academic papers, discursive ones are built around a thesis statement that outlines the arguments.
Unlike other paper genres like persuasive essays , discursive essays are scarce on personal thoughts. They favor an unbiased look at the subject through the lens of facts and statistics. You can use them to discuss issues related to social norms, the economy, political movements, technology, and similar subjects. Whatever you write about, ensure you methodically cover every side of the issue.
Students often confuse these essay types, so we’ve decided to help you understand the difference. These descriptions will show you how to identify the purpose and tone of these papers and choose the appropriate one to match your writing goals.
đ¤ Argumentative | đ§ Discursive |
---|---|
present supporting evidence and disprove opposing claims. | serve as an analysis of the subject from different points of view. |
If your professor tasks you with this kind of assignment, you have a couple of ways to approach it. As weâve mentioned before, there are several types of discursive essays. This segment of our article goes into some detail about each of them.
If you get to write a discursive essay on any subject you wish, this is the right segment for you. Here, we provide several pressing, engaging, and diverse topics for your work.
You may be tempted to write right away after choosing the appropriate topic for your discursive essay. However, before you do this, get acquainted with this paperâs format. Below, youâll find a step-by-step guide for each section of the work.
Crafting a compelling intro is the foundation of a successful discursive essay. This section outlines the essential elements and strategies to grab the audienceâs attention. Read it to master the art of engaging intros.
The body paragraphs offer a platform for in-depth analysis and presentation of multiple perspectives. The ones in discursive essays have distinctive characteristics that distinguish them from other papers.
This section will show you how to restate your main points, complete your arguments, and leave a lasting impression .
Youâre one step closer to writing your perfect essay. We recommend practicing to ensure that you triumph over these academic tasks. Follow our tips, and you will see the quality of your papers reach new heights.
â Be straightforward | Try using simple words and phrases whenever possible. This way, youâll be less likely to make mistakes. It also helps people unfamiliar with the topic to understand it better. |
â Cut down on long sentences | When writing papers, stick to shorter sentence structures. If you see lengthy ones, cut them down into two or more. Thereâs no need to chop up every single one â do this when necessary. Practice and youâll see better which sentences to separate or keep as they are. |
â Clear the clutter | Everybody sometimes writes words, phrases, or sentences that donât add more information to the paper. Or they make the same remarks several times in the text. If the meaning doesnât change with their removal, itâs best to exclude them. |
â Experiment with sentence structure | Sticking to the same sentence structure throughout the text makes it dull and uninteresting. If you want to impact readers, change things from time to time. |
â Rely on an active voice | Try writing in an , as itâs more direct and requires fewer words than its passive counterpart. This makes papers easier to follow and comprehend. Youâll also avoid wordiness. |
â Write in a formal tone | As essays are academic tasks, you should write in a formal tone. Avoid colloquialisms, slang, and other devices not associated with this style. Remember to write in the third person. |
â Stick to familiar vocabulary | When , you will come across new words and phrases. Never use them if you donât fully comprehend their meaning. Instead, stick to the terms and phrases youâre sure of. |
We thank you for your attention. Hopefully, youâve found the guide helpful. If you need any more ideas for your discursive essay, you can create one using our topic generator !
Essay Writing Guides
Writing a discursive essay is an engaging way to explore various perspectives on a topic. Unlike other essay types, discursive essays provide a balanced discussion, presenting different viewpoints and arguments. This type of essay helps develop critical thinking skills and encourages a thorough understanding of the subject.
In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of discursive essays, including their definition, main types, and how they compare to other essay forms. Whether you are a student or a professional writer, mastering the art of discursive writing can enhance your analytical and writing skills.
A discursive essay is an essay that presents both sides of an argument or topic without showing personal bias. âDiscursiveâ comes from âdiscourse,â which involves sharing thoughts on a particular idea. In this essay, you must objectively present the topicâs pros and cons, advantages and disadvantages. The writer remains neutral throughout the essayâs body, only revealing their own opinion in the conclusion, supported by the discussion in the preceding paragraphs. This approach encourages a balanced and comprehensive exploration of the subject matter.
Discursive essays come in three main types: for and against, opinion, and problem-solution.
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Discursive essays differ significantly from other essays in their structure, purpose, and writing style. Here, we will explore how discursive essays compare to argumentative, descriptive, and narrative essays.
A discursive Essay focuses on presenting multiple perspectives on a topic without bias, objectively discussing both sides of an argument. In contrast, an argumentative essay aims to persuade the reader of a particular viewpoint, presenting solid arguments and evidence to support one side while refuting the opposing side.
A discursive essay engages in a balanced discussion on a specific topic, presenting various viewpoints and supporting evidence. In contrast, a descriptive essay focuses on describing a person, place, event, or object in detail, using sensory language to create a vivid picture for the reader without necessarily presenting arguments. You can read more on descriptive essays to get the difference better.
A discursive essay involves a formal and objective discussion on a topic, weighing different perspectives without personal bias, whereas a narrative essay tells a story or recounts an event from the writerâs perspective, emphasizing personal experience and often using a more informal, creative style.
Writing a discursive essay involves several steps to ensure a balanced and comprehensive discussion. Here is a guide to help you craft an effective discursive essay:
Step 1: Choose a Topic
Step 2: Research Both Sides
Step 3: Plan Your Structure
Create an outline with an introduction, several body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Step 4: Write Objectively
Step 5: Revise and Edit
Examples of discursive essay topics.
Discursive essays explore various sides of a topic, presenting multiple viewpoints to encourage thoughtful discussion and analysis. Choosing the right topic is crucial for engaging readers and providing a balanced argument. Here are ten examples of discursive essay topics covering various contemporary issues.
These topics provide a foundation for balanced and comprehensive discursive essays, encouraging critical thinking and informed discussion. If you are interested in more topics, you can explore our extensive list of research topics.
Writing a discursive essay requires careful planning, research, and a balanced approach to presenting arguments. Here are some helpful tips to enhance your discursive essay writing:
Discursive essays offer a valuable opportunity to explore multiple perspectives, fostering critical thinking and balanced analysis. By presenting well-researched arguments and maintaining an objective tone, writers can engage readers in meaningful discussions that promote a deeper understanding of complex issues. Whether comparing discursive essays to other essay types or providing practical writing tips, the insights shared in this article aim to equip you with the tools needed to craft compelling and informative discursive essays. Embrace the challenge, and let your writing contribute to thoughtful dialogue and informed debate.
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Examples of discursive writing include essays that explore multiple viewpoints on topics such as the impact of social media on society, the pros and cons of remote work, the legalization of marijuana, and the ethics of animal testing. In each case, the writer presents balanced arguments for and against the topic, supporting each side with evidence and maintaining an objective tone.
To start a discursive essay, begin with an engaging introduction that introduces the topic and states that you will discuss both sides of the argument. Provide some background information to give context and highlight the importance of the topic. End the introduction with a clear thesis statement that outlines the essayâs structure without revealing your stance.
A discursive essay presents multiple viewpoints on a topic in a balanced and objective manner, discussing both sides without showing bias until the conclusion. An argumentative essay, on the other hand, aims to persuade the reader to accept a specific viewpoint, presenting solid arguments and evidence to support one side while refuting the opposing side.
No, a discursive essay is not the same as a descriptive essay. A discursive essay involves a balanced discussion of different perspectives, presenting arguments and evidence for both sides. A descriptive essay, however, focuses on describing a person, place, event, or object in detail, using sensory language to create a vivid picture for the reader without necessarily presenting arguments or viewpoints.
The University of Queensland. Planning a Discursive Essay. https://uq.pressbooks.pub/academicwritingskills/chapter/discursive-essay-plan/
Racquel English Tutor. How to Write a Discursive Essay[Video]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TnTQt7v6J4
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A discursive essay or discussing essay is similar to other essays in that it shares information and gives an opinion, but differs because it doesn’t provide any new knowledge or insight.
Instead, the goal of this type of essay is to convince the reader by arguing for your position and providing evidence. This blog post will teach you how to write a discursive essay so you are ready for your next assignment!
What is discursive essay? A discursive essay is a type of argumentative essay that should take the reader through your thought process and reasoning. This type of writing takes on a certain position or argument. It is usually written in order to convince the reader of a particular point of view.
For example, if you are writing about how college should be free for all students, then your stance would be pro-free college education and your goal would be convincing the readers that this idea should become reality.
Discursive writing is one of the most basic forms of writing. It can be used to write about anything from a personal experience, to an opinion on a current event.
There are many different types of topics that you can pick from, but before picking one it’s important to make sure the reader will be interested enough in what you have to say about it.
Secondly, after choosing your subject matter for discussion and research, come up with an introduction based on some introductory questions into why this issue deserves attention or needs solving.
This way readers understand where your argument stems from and how they should take it further by reading more than just what was written here.
A strong conclusion is key when coming to any type of discourse because it ties everything together nicely so there isn’t anything left hanging that could confuse anyone who happened upon your writing.
Finally, you can always think of an example or case study to illustrate the issue at hand and provide a real-life scenario for your readers so they understand it better.
Introduction
The introduction for a discussing essay is often short, with the writer providing one or two paragraphs to introduce the topic.
This section should also include an explanation of what it means to be “discursively” writing so that readers understand how this text will organize and present information differently than other types of essays.
The majority of your discursive essay paper should consist of reading/writing about your topic in depth with evidence from research included throughout each paragraph.
In addition, you can provide additional content by including quotes from sources who have studied more deeply into the subject at hand; questions that need answering when considering certain aspects of your issue; descriptions about different perspectives on your topic; etcetera. You do not need to follow a strict outline or linear structure in your writing.
The conclusion
Your discursive essay should end with a summary of the key points you have made throughout your paper, and how these pieces of information connect to one another. This is also where you can make an argument for why this issue matters.
This is how discursive essays are typically structured in order to best engage with their audiences and get them thinking about what they’ve just read which leads into understanding on their own about this topic as well as opening up new avenues that could lead towards solving whatever problem may be at hand.
In a nutshell, discourse writing is engaging because its written in such away where arguments come together around one focused subject matter which brings forth introspection from anyone who reads it.
Discourse essay structures help keep everything organized while still being engaging by discussing events related to the argument’s topic.
â The Misunderstanding between Feminists and Transgender Activists over Gender Identity Politics
In our current society, it seems as though feminists are not unified on their stance towards transgender activism based solely off of gender identity politics…Or so says what many people believe without taking into account that there are two different schools of feminism which reflect differing opinions about trans* rights and inclusion within the feminist movement. Some feminists are in favor of including transgender people, while other feminists believe that trans* activism is actually a threat to the feminist movement.
The debate between these two schools of feminism has become so intense and complicated that it can be difficult for someone who is not well-versed in feminist theory to understand what they are fighting about. However, with both sides having strong arguments rooted in past experiences as women, there’s no easy way out .â
âSo  why should we use recreational drugs?
Most people argue against drugs for many different reasons: moral arguments, health concerns, legal consequences, and so on. This Discursive Essay will examine all of these arguments as well as the idea that drugs are good for society in general
An argument against using recreational drugs is moral concerns because people argue they’re morally wrong; this could be challenged by saying what about alcohol? If we say some things like driving while intoxicated or drinking from a baby bottle when youâre over 18 then there’s no difference with doing illegal substances.
A health concern to consider would be physical ailments such as lung cancer which can happen after smoking weed but it also comes down to how long you smoked for and if you have any family history related problems. The second point about health is mental illnesses such as addiction which depends on individual circumstance.
Legal concerns can range from being caught with drugs in your car to possession charges, and result in fines or jail time. The third point about legal concerns is how the drug affects you which can happen even if it’s not doing anything wrong because people react differently.
Societal implications exist due to culture: some societies may be more accepting of certain substances while others have a stricter view. This may depend on who they are talking to as well and what their position was so this could create an atmosphere where someone might feel pressured into using any substance at all times just for acceptance purposes.
Moral objectives would only really matter for those within that moral objective but if there were two parties then one will think its morally right while another doesn’t see it as being wrong. Morals can be seen as subjective and so this leads to the two parties having different views on a certain action.
Facts, such as when someone is hurting themselves or others due to substance use, are objective facts that don’t rely on feelings but rather sense. When something has an effect then it will have consequences because of how its affecting them physically or mentally which means that if they continue with their actions until these consequences happen then it becomes objectively morally wrong for one’s own sake.
Situations that may affect an individual’s understanding are: personal perspectives, societal views and cultural values. These all play a role in how people understand as well because it can impact their mental state which could have different effects on what they believe to be right from wrong for them personally.
If there is no medication then this will result in negative consequences but not always – if someone takes enough of the drug then they’ll experience withdrawal symptoms like weight loss, nausea and insomnia depending on the type of substance consumed so this would need to be taken into account when writing about drugs. â
Topic: “ Is technology good or bad ” discursive essay
Technological advances have become so widespread in society that most people will not be able to live without them. Many of these same technological advancements are also linked with the progression of information technology, which has been a major factor in shaping and defining our culture today. With this being said, it is important to ask ourselves whether or not these technologies are good for us? Or should we reconsider how we use certain aspects of technology?
This discursive Essay will discuss five possible pros and cons related specifically to the advancement of technology including social media usage, cyber bullying, reliance on cell phones as well as computer-related activities at work/at home. It will then further explore if there are any other alternatives aside from just relying on devices like laptops or mobile phones.
The pros of technology have been argued to be the convenience it brings. For example, social media has made connecting with people easier than ever before and allows us to get information without having to go out in person or look for a local newspaper article. It also provides entertainment as well as other features that make life simpler. This includes apps like weather forecasting, calculators and even online shopping.
On the flip side, there are negative aspects related to how we use some technologies today such as cyber bullying which is defined as “the new form of face-to-face abuse”. In regards to the reliance on devices like laptops or mobile phones at work/at home; this can cause laziness due to the lack of physical movement.
There are many positives that can come from the internet such as access to information, communication with people who live in different geographical locations and a vast amount of content (both useful and useless). However, we must take caution when it comes to how much time is spent online and what types of things they look at on social media sites like Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , Pinterest , LinkedIn , Reddit and Youtube .
Technology has both positive aspects but also negative ones depending on which side you’re looking at it from. The awesome thing about this topic though is there’s not one answer because everyone carries their own opinion on whether it be good or bad so anyone reading these words should form an opinion themselves by critiquing my thoughts instead of just taking them as the truth .â
This article provides practical tips on how to write a discursive essay, the structure, format, outline for this kind of academic paper as well as some topics you may want to consider when working on your own composition.
We also provide an example at the end in case you need more help with understanding what it takes to craft these types of homework essays properly.
If none of these ideas appeal or if you are still unsure about where to start with your work, we invite you to contact Essay-writing.com today; our professional writers will be happy to offer their “ write my essay ” expertise and make sure all aspects are taken care for so that nothing stands between you and success!
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Mar 30, 2024 | 0 comments
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A discursive essay requires the writer to present balanced arguments on a particular topic. This type of essay demands critical thinking and analytical skills to argue both sides of an issue effectively. Whether for a school assignment or a professional publication, mastering the art of writing a discursive essay is essential for any writer. In this article, we will discuss the key components of a discursive essay and provide tips on how to structure and write one effectively. From choosing a topic to researching and presenting arguments, we will guide you through crafting a well-rounded and persuasive discursive essay. By the end of this article, you will have the tools and knowledge needed to tackle this challenging form of writing confidently. So, let’s dive in and learn how to write a discursive essay that will impress your readers.
Table of Contents
At its core, a discursive essay is an essay that investigates an issue, situation, or problem from differing points of view. It presents a balanced, multi-perspective overview, considering all major positions on the topic in a balanced way.
The overarching goal is to inform and explore – not to argue a one-sided case. Discursive essays demonstrate your ability to think critically and add nuance to complex issues by being open to opposing arguments and representing them fairly.
This open-minded approach is why these essays are valuable across many academic disciplines like philosophy, history, and the social sciences. Being able to weigh multiple sides develops crucial research and reasoning abilities.
There are several key reasons instructors assign writing such essays:
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Opinionated discursive writing : As the name suggests, these present the writer’s opinion or perspective on an issue while objectively considering other potential positions. The writer’s view remains at the core of the essay.
Argumentative Discursive Essays : These essays use factual evidence and logical reasoning to make a case for a particular stance on an issue. While other views may be mentioned, the purpose is to persuade the reader toward the writer’s position.
Solution Essays : These essays examine a problem or situation and propose one or more potential solutions, weighing the merits of each approach. The essay itself doesn’t argue for a single solution.
Descriptive discursive writing : This is a discursive essay type that vividly describes and analyzes a particular topic, event, or phenomenon from multiple perspectives. It aims to paint a detailed, multi-faceted picture of the subject matter, exploring various viewpoints and arguments objectively and balanced.
You may think, “Don’t argumentative and discursive essays present different positions on a topic? What’s the real difference?”
It’s a fair question, so let’s clarify how discursive essays are distinct from argumentative and expository pieces:
Argumentative Essays aim to persuade the reader that one particular position is correct by presenting a clear thesis statement and building logical arguments supported by evidence to prove it. While they may acknowledge counterarguments, the ultimate goal is to convince the reader of the writer’s stance.
On the other hand, Expository Essays are entirely objective explanations of a topic, concept or process. They avoid persuasion or arguing with any one perspective. The purpose is solely to provide factual information to inform the reader.
A discursive essay sits between these two – it doesn’t persuade toward one viewpoint like an argumentative essay but doesn’t remain completely neutral like an expository piece. The goal is to provide an overview that gives equal, unbiased consideration to all major perspectives on an issue.
So, in summary:
With the theory out of the way, let’s learn how to write a good discursive essay!
There are several key phases in writing an effective discursive essay: choosing a topic, planning the structure, researching different perspectives, and putting it all together cohesively. Let’s break it down:
The first step is selecting an appropriate topic that allows you to offer a well-rounded, multi-perspective analysis. When choosing your topic, keep these tips in mind:
Some potential good discursive essay topics could analyze complex societal issues like climate change policies, ethical use of new technologies, criminal justice reforms, or systemic inequalities. Just be sure the topic truly has multiple perspectives to explore.
Once you have identified your discursive essay topic, it’s time to start mapping your approach and structure.
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A solid essay plan ensures your discursive essay flows logically and gives equal attention to the various viewpoints. Generally, essays will follow this structure: a discursive essay:
Introduction Paragraph :
Body of the Essay :
When writing the body, use transition words to connect paragraphs logically and indicate shifts between viewpoints. Words like “conversely,” “additionally,” and “however” keep the flow coherent.
Most importantly, the body of your essay needs to address all major perspectives related to your thesis in a neutral, impartial tone without favouring any one side. Your credibility hinges on representing each stance accurately.
Conclusion Paragraph :
With the core outline in place, you can start gathering the evidence, examples, data sources, and expert commentary to substantiate each position and counterargument within the body paragraphs .
Thorough, wide-ranging research from credible, authoritative sources allows you to adequately explore all sides of an issue. When gathering source materials:
In addition to conducting secondary research through written sources, consider:
The deeper and broader your research base, the more nuanced and fully developed your essay analysis can be.
As you start writing the body paragraphs, smartly integrate your evidence by:
The introduction is crucial as it sets the stage for your balanced argument on a topic. You don’t write a bland, generic opening. Instead, for a discursive essay, you must grab the reader’s attention with an interesting hook, such as a thought-provoking question, shocking fact, or vivid anecdote related to your topic.
Then, provide relevant background information to give context before clearly stating your thesis, introducing the main issue and outlining the different sides of the issue you’ll explore. Your thesis must be specifically focused and present an arguable, nuanced claim – not just a self-evident fact.
The essay’s main body is where you systematically analyze the various perspectives and positions using logical reasoning and supporting evidence. Each new argument should be addressed in a separate paragraph with a clear topic sentence stating the claim.
Expand on that viewpoint using facts, examples or evidence, expert opinions, and analysis. Fully flesh out each position before introducing any counterarguments or rebuttals in the following paragraphs.
When representing the opposing argument, do so objectively. Don’t exaggerate or misrepresent the claims – identify a discursive essay’s different stances accurately first, then provide evidence challenging or qualifying that stance. Avoid dismissing counterarguments entirely.
Maintain an academic tone throughout – don’t write with excessive informal language or personal bias. Use transitional phrases between paragraphs to connect ideas logically.
In concluding the essay, you don’t simply restate your original thesis from the introduction. Certainly summarize the key points made, but avoid redundancy.
More importantly, it offers a meaningful analysis that weighs the relative strengths and weaknesses of each perspective explored in the essay. If appropriate, propose potential solutions or resolutions for the issue at hand.
The conclusion is also where you can express insightful opinions if done judiciously. Just don’t introduce entirely new arguments or evidence.
Finally, end with a thought-provoking closing statement that reveals deeper implications, leaves the reader with a call to action, or opens avenues for further discussion.
With the overall structure and research in place, the focus now shifts to the execution – how you craft insightful analysis in a balanced, academic tone. Key techniques include:
Use Clear, Precise Language
Apply a Formal, Objective Tone
Substantiate All Claims
Address Counterarguments
To illustrate how all these components come together into an actual discursive essay, let’s quickly analyze an example:
This brief example illustrates how a discursive essay comprehensively lays out all the perspectives and key arguments around a complex issue like AI ethics. Each view is represented using objective language and substantiated by relevant evidence and expert viewpoints.
The conclusion doesn’t definitively “solve” the dilemma but provides analysis, allowing the reader to weigh the positions and acknowledge the nuances.
After going through this guide, you should now feel more equipped to expertly know the discursive essay definition, the structure of a discursive essay, how to start a discursive essay introduction, and how to plan a discursive essay that meets the high standards. of this challenge. Crafting a strong discursive essay thesis statement and organizing your thoughts in an outlined manner allows you to build a nuanced, multi-perspective analysis methodically. While honing the skills required to produce top-tier discursive writing takes diligence and real-world practice, the long-term benefits of enhancing your critical thinking abilities and strengthening how you communicate complex, multifaceted ideas and arguments are immensely valuable.
Here are the key takeaways to conclude:
What is a discursive essay format.
A discursive essay follows a specific structure that includes an introductory paragraph with a clear topic sentence, several paragraphs alternately presenting arguments, and a conclusion summarizing the main points.
To start a discursive essay, begin with an introduction or the first paragraph that catches the reader’s attention and clearly explains the topic you will discuss.
Discursive writing can take various forms, such as opinion essays, writing that presents both sides of an argument, or essays that propose a solution to a problem.
Linking words is essential for connecting ideas within a discursive essay. These words help structure your essay and make it cohesive. Commonly used linking words include “moreover,” “however,” “on the other hand,” and “therefore.
Through my engaging and informative blog posts, I aim to provide helpful tips on topics such as essay writing, research skills, and academic planning, empowering students to thrive in their academic pursuits.
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State your opinion in the introduction, supported by examples and reasons. Present the opposing argument before the conclusion, explaining why you find it unconvincing. Summarize your important points in the conclusion. 2. Essay providing a solution to a problem. Focus on discussing an issue and proposing solutions.
Planning a Discursive Essay - Academic Writing Skills
How to Write a Discursive Essay with Impact and Authorityđ
A discursive essay presents both sides of an argument, then states your stance. The goal. The goal of a discursive essay is to present a balanced and objective analysis of both sides of the argument. (Keep in mind that, in some cases, you may need to examine three or more positions as topics may be more nuanced than basic for-or-against ...
How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips to Succeed & ...
A discursive essay is an essay which involves a discussion. You're encouraged to examine different perspectives on the issue so that the discussion you provide is a balanced one! You are on the right track if your essay sheds light on the issue by looking at it from different viewpoints.
A discursive essay aims to elaborate on a given topic in a balanced way. The subject matter is often a dilemma or issue, so there are usually two or three possible solutions. Hence, the ideal piece must include all sides of the problem and present objective and all-encompassing evidence about the topic.
The thesis statement begins with a capital letter) followed by your title or, in the case of your discursive essay, the thesis statement. Technically, the running header should be no more than 50 characters, including letters, spaces, and punctuation. Though in the case of the discursive essay, it is more important to your instructor / grader ...
Clear Introduction: Start with a concise introduction that provides context and grabs the reader's attention. Clearly state your thesis or main argument. Well-structured Paragraphs: Divide your essay into paragraphs that focus on specific points. Each paragraph should present a new idea or support a previous one.
Discursive Essay Writing Tips. Utilise connectives: Use words like 'however,' 'in contrast,' or 'conversely' for smooth transitions between opposing viewpoints. For instance, "While some argue for the benefits of online learning, others vehemently oppose it. However, a nuanced perspective considers both sides.".
A discursive essay means that some creative writing has a place. Only such an approach can present a balanced and thought-out example of a successful discursive essay. The only point that must be considered is a critical evaluation of a subject.
Discursive Essay: How to Write (With Examples!)
The discursive essay discusses ideas and opinions on a topic without the aim of persuading the reader to take a given view. It is your unbiased presenting of differing viewpoints that allows the reader to decide which is best. This allows you to present the topic from several viewpoints, showing the pros and cons of them all.
Discursive essays have much in common with argumentative and persuasive papers, but these are not to be confused. Despite some similarities, discursive writing is a separate type of work that has its specific features and nuances. What we do want you to remember about discursive essays is that you need to concentrate on the power of thought ...
The Four Main Types of Essay | Quick Guide with Examples
Discursive (adj) [dis-ker-siv]: talking or writing about things that are not highly organized. moving from topic to topic without order. passing aimlessly from one topic to another. SYNONYMS: rambling, digressive, erratic, long-winded. Think of discursive as a BLEND of expository and argumentative because it uses elements from both:
Discursive writing is a comparatively fresh approach to handling writing assignments. That is because "how to write a good discursive essay" requests are common among learners. Such writing technique does not limit the author's imagination. Instead, it welcomes your creativity and imagination while forming an opinion on the matter.
Writing discursive essays is a common task that can be encountered in high school and college environments. Mastering the nuances of writing them will be a lot easier with this guide. Our team has prepared recommendations that cover the basics of discursive essays and their format. Additionally, you will find some helpful tips about improving ...
Discursive essays come in three main types: for and against, opinion, and problem-solution. For and Against Essays: These essays present a topic's positive and negative aspects. The writer discusses arguments for and against the issue, providing a balanced view without showing personal bias until the conclusion.
Tips for Discursive Essay Writing. Write all aspects of the topic at once. Research the topic beforehand to make sure you have enough information for your essay and are able to cover all bases. Write a draft of an outline before moving on to writing the body paragraphs as this will help with structuring, order, and content flow.
Discursive essay topic #4: Is technology addiction a real addiction? Some believe that technology is a tool and that limiting technology use is simply a matter of putting down the gaming system, tablet, or phone. Yet others argue that tech addiction is real. They claim people need professional medical treatment to manage their addictions.
Main Types of Discursive Essay Writing. Opinionated discursive writing: As the name suggests, these present the writer's opinion or perspective on an issue while objectively considering other potential positions.The writer's view remains at the core of the essay. Argumentative Discursive Essays: These essays use factual evidence and logical reasoning to make a case for a particular stance ...