An opinion essay

 

Tips

1. Introduce your essay by restating the question in your own words.
2. If the essay asks you to what extent do you agree?, make your opinion clear throughout. You can either agree, partially agree or disagree with the statement, explaining and justifying your opinion.
3. The structure should be:
   • Introduction
   • The first reason why you agree/disagree
   • The second reason why you agree/disagree
   • The third reason why you agree/disagree (if you have one)
   • Conclusion
4. Use phrases to organise and link your ideas, e.g. Owing to … , One justification for … , The first thing to consider is … , A further reason … , In conclusion ... .
5. If you do not have solid evidence for your ideas, use modal verbs such as might, may or could (e.g. they could develop more empathy and care) or other tentative phrases (e.g. it does not appear to be an effective punishment).
6. Conclude by restating your opinion and summarising your two or three main arguments.